Chapter 376

Adrian's office embodied contemporary sophistication, its walls painted in rich charcoal tones. The space was deliberately understated, with even the angular leather sofa contributing to the austere aesthetic. The ambiance softened slightly when Vivian and Audrey crossed the threshold.

Adrian moved toward the seating area, placing the takeout bag on the polished ebony coffee table. Vivian remained quiet as she began unpacking the food, her gaze lingering momentarily on a row of exquisite thermal containers nearby.

"Those are from Serena," Adrian explained, noticing her attention.

Audrey opened her mouth to deliver a cutting remark to Adrian but hesitated when she saw what Vivian was unpacking. Instead, she settled silently onto the sofa behind Vivian, making herself as inconspicuous as possible.

Vivian felt a flicker of discomfort but kept her tone light. "Shall we eat this? I can serve it."

Adrian, experiencing an unfamiliar pang of guilt, tossed his suit jacket onto the sofa and said awkwardly, "I didn't ask her to send those."

Normally, he wouldn't bother justifying such trivial matters. But now he recognized how often he'd been insensitive regarding female relationships.

"Mrs. Blackwood, Mr. Blackwood was just about to have the kitchen prepare a light meal," Ethan interjected smoothly as he entered, picking up the conversational thread. He gave Adrian an approving glance, pleased to see his boss adapting to married life.

Remembering another matter, Ethan added quickly, "Also, Mr. and Mrs. Blackwood, the receptionist has completed her probation period. I've directed her to HR to begin termination proceedings."

Audrey leaned forward, concern lacing her voice. "What if she goes online and accuses Vivian of workplace bullying?"

Ethan chuckled reassuringly. "You worry too much, Miss Winslow. If she hopes to maintain any professional standing in Crestwood, she wouldn't dare cause that kind of trouble."

The unspoken message was clear: if the receptionist made waves, Adrian had the influence to end her career.

Adrian glanced at Serena's food containers and instructed Ethan, "Distribute these to the staff downstairs."

"Yes, sir," Ethan replied, reaching for the bags.

Vivian interrupted, "Audrey and I haven't eaten yet. What I brought isn't enough for all three of us, so we'll keep these."

Adrian frowned. "You can order whatever you like."

Vivian dismissed this, settling beside Audrey as she unpacked a container. "Why waste money and food? This is perfectly good."

She handed Audrey a dish. "Here, you love lobster." Selecting another for herself, she added, "I'll take the crab roe noodles."

Turning to Adrian, she suggested, "The steak looks excellent. Would you like it?"