Chapter 345
The studio lights blazed overhead as the live audience remained oblivious to the dramatic entrance happening behind them. Adrian Blackwood's sudden appearance sent electric whispers rippling through the crowd like wildfire.
"Is that...? No, it can't be!"
"Sweet heavens, he's even more breathtaking than Sebastian Hartwell!"
"Since when does a CEO attend variety shows?"
The growing commotion finally drew the attention of the onstage guests. Vivian Hartley's breath hitched when her gaze landed on the imposing figure standing in the shadows. Her fingers trembled around the microphone as her mind raced. What was Adrian doing here?
Backstage, the director nearly dropped his clipboard when his assistant confirmed Serena Whitmore's presence. Everyone in the industry knew Adrian worshipped the ground Serena walked on. With both Serena and Sebastian involved, their ratings would smash records!
Beaming, the director rushed forward. "Mr. Blackwood—" he began, ready to mention Serena waiting in the green room.
But Adrian strode right past him, his piercing gaze locked onto the stage.
When Vivian met those obsidian eyes, time seemed to freeze. The intensity in his stare rooted her to the spot. Despite her shock, she knew with terrifying certainty - he'd come for her. Her pulse pounded so violently she feared the mic might pick it up.
This wasn't how she'd imagined their reunion. Instead of joy, cold dread pooled in her stomach. Every instinct screamed to run, but fleeing mid-recording would destroy her career. She bit her lip hard enough to taste copper, reminding herself this wasn't live. Maybe they could edit this entire segment out later.
Julian Montoya, misreading the situation, stepped forward to intercept Adrian, thinking he meant to confront Vivian for Serena's sake. "Mr. Blackwood—"
One glacial glance from Adrian had Julian retreating instantly.
Adrian stopped before Vivian, studying her with an unreadable expression. The studio lights caught the subtle silver threads in his navy suit, making him look every inch the untouchable tycoon. "You didn't tell me you'd be on Spotlight Night." His voice was deceptively calm, like the eerie stillness before a storm.
The director paled, realizing his mistake. If Adrian wasn't here for Serena... A sickening thought struck him. Had they been backing the wrong person all along? Memories of how they'd treated Vivian made his stomach churn.
Vivian focused on Adrian's tie pin to steady herself. "I didn't think variety shows were your thing."
"They're not," Adrian admitted, his deep voice resonating through the suddenly silent studio. Then, with quiet intensity that made her heart stutter: "But I'll make an exception for you."