Chapter 274

Vivian stared at the barbecue skewers in her hand, childhood memories flooding back with each bite. The nostalgia made her reluctant to argue. Their divorce was imminent anyway—soon Serena would be the one dealing with Adrian's dietary preferences.

"Did the site inspection go well?" she changed the subject. "Any investment potential in Willowbrook?"

If Adrian decided to invest in her hometown, his financial influence could transform the local economy. Business talk always calmed him. "The natural hot springs are Willowbrook's main asset. But Crystalpeak already dominates the market, and other locations aren't prime real estate. The ROI wouldn't justify heavy investment."

Though Willowbrook had numerous thermal springs, none had achieved national recognition. During Vivian's college years, a wealthy investor had leased the largest mountain with hot springs, constructing a luxury resort that briefly earned the title "nation's finest thermal retreat." But the project stalled when the investor lost interest.

"Why not acquire Crystalpeak Resort?" Vivian suggested. "It would be a guaranteed success."

With Ambermyst airing—starring Katrina and Sebastian—and the recent social media buzz, the drama was destined to be a hit. Sapphire Springs, where the protagonists fell in love, had already boosted tourism in Emberglow County, and surrounding areas stood to benefit from the show's popularity.

Plus, Damien planned a Christmas release—peak season for hot spring getaways.

"I considered that," Adrian admitted. "Offered above market value, but they're refusing to sell."

Vivian nibbled her lower lip. "The owner clearly lacks business sense yet clings to the property. Probably holding out for a better offer."

Adrian hesitated before revealing, "Ethan mentioned the executives believe the owner is searching for someone. They're determined to stay put—selling isn't an option."

"Willowbrook has barely half a million residents. If they haven't found this person after all these years..." Vivian trailed off, then added thoughtfully, "Actually, I've never visited Crystalpeak."

"Never?" Adrian's eyebrows shot up.

Resting her chin in one hand, Vivian absently pushed food around her plate with the other. "They built it after I left for college. Only came back during holidays and never stayed long enough to visit."

Adrian set down his fork, studying her profile. "The deal didn't close today, but the resort manager gave me complimentary passes—full access to the hot springs with overnight accommodation. Interested?"

"Absolutely!" Vivian immediately reached for her phone to call Audrey.

Before Vivian could speak, Audrey's抱怨came through the line. "This town is deader than last season's fashion! How did you survive growing up here? I wanted to visit Crystalpeak tomorrow but everything's booked solid."

After letting her friend vent, Vivian casually offered, "Adrian has some passes. Want to join us?"

An ear-piercing squeal followed. "Oh my god, you're an angel!"