Chapter 257

Vivian whirled around in surprise. The lively chatter in the courtyard died instantly as all eyes turned toward the unexpected visitor. Facing Adrian's sudden appearance, Vivian forced a polite smile and stepped toward the group. "It's been a while, everyone. I came back to visit my mother's grave."

"You grow more beautiful each time we see you, Vivian," the neighbors replied casually, their eyes flickering with curiosity toward the unfamiliar man. "And who might this gentleman be?"

With effortless charm, Adrian inclined his head. "Good evening. I'm Adrian Blackwood, Vivian's husband."

Behind him, Ethan appeared bearing carefully selected gifts. Adrian's arm slipped around Vivian's waist with practiced ease. "Vivian often speaks of your kindness. We brought some small tokens of appreciation."

Ethan distributed the presents - premium tobacco, aged whiskey, and imported health supplements. The neighbors accepted them with stunned expressions. Wasn't this the man rumored to be indifferent toward Vivian? The one supposedly resembling some barnyard animal?

Each woman now clutched an expensive gift bag, their attitudes shifting instantly. Smiles bloomed as they crowded closer, voices dripping with sudden admiration.

"How fortunate Vivian married into such a distinguished family! As women, finding a good match is our greatest achievement. If only Vivian's mother could see her now - she'd rest easy knowing her daughter is so well cared for."

"Vivian was always the prettiest and smartest girl in our neighborhood. She deserves this happiness!"

"Remember when Vivian got into university? Even the mayor came to congratulate her."

"Your grandmother mentioned her medical treatments cost a fortune daily. With such a devoted husband, she needn't worry about anything. I'm sure she has the best doctors money can buy."

"This young man is absolutely dashing. You two look like you stepped right out of a romance novel."

Vivian wasn't surprised by their sudden change of heart. These women loved gossip and small favors, but beneath their nosy exteriors beat genuinely kind hearts. They'd often brought discounted groceries when times were tough for her and Eleanor.

Adrian's smile softened. "If anything, I'm the lucky one."

When Vivian met his deep gaze, she saw her own reflection shimmering in those dark eyes. For a breathless moment, the charade almost felt real.

His acting had reached Oscar-worthy levels today. No wonder so many actors fell for their co-stars - the line between fiction and reality blurred dangerously when emotions ran high.

Even knowing their relationship was contractual, Vivian found herself momentarily swept up in the fantasy.

An elderly woman tucked her gift away and nudged her companion. "You should take notes. Early marriage clearly worked wonders for Vivian."

The middle-aged woman paused unpacking her gift with an irritated huff. "Don't start! My daughter's pickiness drives me mad. She's waiting for some fairy tale prince to sweep her off her feet!"

An image flashed through Vivian's mind - a girl who walked like she owned the world, nose perpetually in the air, barely acknowledging others. Clarissa, the woman's daughter, had been Vivian's childhood rival growing up as the only two girls in their building.