Chapter 371

Vivian ignored the sarcastic remark, her attention fixed on the receptionist's words. "Who did you say claimed to be Dominic's girlfriend?"

The receptionist gestured toward a secluded corner. "That troublemaker over there. The CEO's circle consists of elite society members. What would someone like her be doing here? Daydreamers like you should know your place."

Just then, a familiar voice cut through the tension. "Vivian?"

Looking up, Vivian was startled to see Audrey approaching. Gone was her usual provocative wardrobe, replaced by a modest light gray blazer and trousers. Vivian blinked twice, momentarily stunned by Audrey's transformed appearance. Only when Audrey stood directly before her did she manage to speak. "What brings you here?"

"Do you two know each other?" The receptionist's eyes darted between them, a smirk forming. "Birds of a feather, I see."

Audrey's face darkened instantly. She whirled toward the receptionist, her tone razor-sharp. "Are you deliberately being obtuse or—"

Her words were interrupted by two middle-aged businessmen who sauntered up, eyeing them with amusement. "Save your breath, ladies," the first man drawled. "Mr. Blackwood doesn't entertain unannounced visitors."

His companion added with a condescending chuckle, "Even we needed Mr. Thornton's introduction to get this far. You think you can waltz in without connections?"

His gaze swept over Vivian and Audrey before snorting. "One claims to be Mr. Sinclair's lover, the other Mr. Blackwood's wife. Where's Ethan to greet you then? No calls, no appointments?"

The first man smirked. "Why don't you just call Mr. Blackwood or Mr. Thornton directly? Oh wait—you can't!"

Their mocking laughter filled the marble lobby.

One businessman eyed Audrey's loose blazer with disdain. "At least your friend dresses the part. What's this—a failed attempt at respectability? Did you even finish school? Instead of chasing wealthy men, maybe acquire some real skills."

Audrey glanced down at her outfit, noticing how it concealed her curves. Her jaw tightened as she defiantly adjusted the blazer. "Clearly you need glasses. Can't you see perfection when it's standing before you?"

Vivian studied the men, quickly deducing their connection to Victor—Adrian's scheming uncle who constantly exploited the Blackwood name.

Still fuming, Audrey produced a phone from her bag. "I accidentally took Dominic's phone. Can you call Adrian?"

Vivian frowned, wanting to ask about Audrey's relationship with Dominic—but now wasn't the moment. Shooting a glance at the smirking men and impatient receptionist, she sighed and dialed Adrian's number.

After several rings, an automated voice responded: "The number you have dialed is currently unavailable—"

The mechanical voice seemed unnaturally loud in the sudden silence, immediately drowned by renewed laughter from the businessmen.