Chapter 367
Adrian's commanding tone left no room for refusal. Vivian hesitated only briefly before approaching the hospital bed, her phone extended toward him with uncharacteristic calmness. Gone was her usual fiery spirit, replaced by an unsettling serenity as she met his gaze.
The moment their eyes locked, Adrian felt the refusal die on his lips. Some deeper concern for Serena propelled him forward. With reluctant fingers, he accepted the device and swiped to answer. "What is it, Serena?"
His voice transformed instantly - that tender patience reserved exclusively for her. No matter the circumstances, his tone remained gentle. Vivian's chest tightened painfully as jealousy surged through her veins. Despite Adrian's recent obsession with her, Serena's mere existence made her feel insignificant.
"You've been so busy with work lately, we haven't even had dinner together." Serena's musical voice filled the silent room. "When your film wraps, could we visit Azurevale?"
Adrian's gaze flickered to Vivian, whose eyes burned with an intensity that both accused and entranced him. His bandaged hand reached out, capturing her slender fingers in a silent promise. After a weighted pause, he released a quiet sigh. "Do you truly see yourself living in Azurevale permanently?"
Vivian looked away, focusing on the warmth of Adrian's grip that somehow steadied her racing heart. Hope blossomed in her chest - was he considering sending Serena away? After being torn between them, was he finally choosing?
Serena, perceptive as ever yet pretending ignorance, continued lightly, "Will you come with me, Adrian? The village is enchanting. We could even get one of those fluffy Persian cats—"
A shadow crossed Adrian's features as he gently crushed her fantasy. "The entertainment industry isn't for you. With your fragile health, you need rest." His voice softened further. "I'll arrange a monthly allowance of five hundred thousand Sterlings and the best cardiologist in Azurevale. Pursue your passions there—or if acting still calls to you, I can enroll you in the local performing arts college."
The line went silent before Serena's voice cracked with devastation. "Adrian... are you really leaving me?" The raw pain in her words made Adrian's grip on Vivian's hand tighten unconsciously, leaving faint red marks on her pale skin.
Vivian watched Adrian closely, her luminous eyes reflecting both accusation and fragile hope. His touch grounded her even as her pulse raced. Could this finally be the moment he chose her completely?
Adrian's expression darkened with resolve as he addressed Serena again. "This lifestyle isn't sustainable for you. I want you safe and cared for—just not here." The finality in his tone left no room for argument.
Vivian's breath caught. After everything, was he truly letting Serena go? The possibility sent her heart soaring even as she fought to maintain her composure. This moment—this choice—could change everything between them.