Chapter 37

Vivian studied Adrian's face with growing revulsion. The hypocrisy was staggering.

Here stood a man playing the doting husband while secretly pining for his childhood sweetheart. The man she'd once worshipped now made her stomach churn. A bitter laugh escaped her lips as she locked eyes with him.

"Mr. Blackwood, do you honestly think wealth solves everything?"

Adrian began to speak, but Vivian silenced him with a sharp gesture.

"You're trying to purchase the role I've sacrificed everything for, just to hand it to Serena. Now you're waving money in my face - is this supposed to be compensation or intimidation? That contract you're offering must be worth millions. Would you really bankrupt yourself for Serena? Is your devotion that profound?"

Their raised voices drew curious glances from nearby hospital visitors. Adrian shifted uncomfortably, his cheeks flushing. "Vivian, you're being ridiculous."

Her smile turned razor-sharp, dripping with sarcasm.

"Am I? Why must the universe bend to your will? Why assume I don't need this opportunity? Don't I deserve to build my own career?"

Adrian's expression darkened, his jaw tightening. "I'm trying to help you. It's been years since you held steady work. The entertainment industry will chew you up and spit you out."

Vivian's mind flashed to Serena. What made her more qualified? Then realization struck - Serena had Adrian's unwavering backing, support Vivian had never known. Arguing further seemed pointless. She couldn't force Adrian to treat her equally, nor make him love her. But she could free herself from this emotional torture.

Her voice became dangerously calm.

"Today I've witnessed the lengths you'll go for your precious Serena, Mr. Blackwood," she said, her bitter smile fading. "If you love her so desperately, why keep her as your mistress? Sign the divorce papers. Make an honest woman of her."

Adrian's patience snapped. "I never mentioned divorce. You're being hysterical," he hissed, struggling to maintain composure. "Vivian! My tolerance has limits."

His self-righteous act ignited her fury. All warmth vanished from her eyes. "Let. Me. Go." Each word fell like a guillotine blade.

Adrian tightened his grip instead. "Accept my offer and withdraw from the lead role. Name your price if the contract isn't enough—"

Exhausted by his obstinance, Vivian acted on instinct. She sank her teeth into his hand.

"Damn it!" Adrian recoiled, his grip faltering.

Seizing the opportunity, Vivian wrenched free and sprinted down the corridor.