Chapter 284

Vivian responded with measured composure, "Mr. Blackwood is correct. I chose this path, so I'll handle both the rewards and consequences that follow."

Adrian drummed his fingers against the polished mahogany table, releasing a humorless laugh. Her agreement unsettled him more than their usual heated exchanges ever could.

Yet her flawless rebuttal left no opening for counterattack. It was like swinging at mist - his frustration only grew as his arguments dissipated into nothingness.

As the tension between them dissolved into uncomfortable silence, a server approached bearing a silver tray of beverages. With practiced precision, he placed each drink before them, finally setting a sparkling soda in front of Vivian. "Miss Hartley, this is our signature house blend. The carbonation fades quickly, so I recommend enjoying it immediately."

Though she hadn't planned to drink it right away, the server's insistence prompted Vivian to take a small sip. The man watched her throat move as she swallowed before adding, "Do finish it while it's still at its best." He departed with an odd gleam in his eye that neither noticed.

Unaware of the exchange, Audrey suddenly reached for Vivian's half-empty glass. "Let me taste this miracle drink," she declared, parched from the salty appetizers. In one swift motion, she drained the remaining soda.

Moonlight silvered the landscape as evening deepened. Audrey rubbed her temples with a groan. "Why am I so tired suddenly? Was it the food or the thermal baths?"

Her head felt unnaturally heavy, as if she'd consumed several glasses of wine. Vivian nodded in agreement, her own eyelids drooping. "I feel it too. Perhaps we should retire for the night."

Audrey stood abruptly, shedding her jacket after only a few steps. "Why is it so warm up here? Mountain nights are supposed to be chilly."

Dominic emerged from the restaurant, pulling his coat tighter with visible discomfort. "Are you joking? It's freezing out here," he countered, shooting her a puzzled look.

Audrey ignored him, scanning their surroundings. The lush forest that had seemed so inviting by daylight now appeared ominous beneath the moon's pale glow. Shadows from swaying branches created eerie patterns that set her nerves on edge.

She clutched Vivian's arm tightly. "Let's hurry back. This place is giving me chills."

Dominic smirked. "So the fearless Audrey has a weak stomach after all. Paper tiger."

Without hesitation, Audrey aimed a kick at his shins. "Missed me!" Dominic taunted as he dodged, only to stumble backward into Adrian who had been following silently.

Adrian shoved him aside with visible distaste. "Move."

Audrey flashed a triumphant grin at Dominic before striding ahead with Vivian. The two men followed at a more measured pace.

The night sky glittered with countless stars while soft lanterns illuminated the stone pathway. Crickets chirped rhythmically from the trees, their song mingling with the earthy forest scents. Vivian barely registered the serene beauty, her head growing heavier with each step. Audrey's weight against her shoulder only intensified her exhaustion. She longed to simply collapse onto the cool stones and surrender to sleep.

Adrian noticed her faltering steps and closed the distance between them, his brow furrowing. "Are you unwell?"

"Just overate, probably," Vivian murmured, waving off his concern with sluggish fingers.