Chapter 417

Adrian could have simply bailed out Dawson Enterprises with his wealth, but that would defeat the purpose. Watching Vivian reclaim control of the company her mother had sacrificed everything to build—the same company Vivian had fought tooth and nail to protect—held far greater significance.

His gaze was intense, like a professor waiting for a student to present their thesis. Vivian met his eyes, recognizing his silent challenge, and began laying out her strategy.

"I've secured an alternative supplier for raw materials. My plan involves prepayment to guarantee timely deliveries. Missing deadlines would only compound our financial penalties. Defaulting isn't an option at this critical juncture."

She exhaled sharply, frustration flashing across her delicate features. "It's like playing a rigged game where the house controls all the cards. The odds are impossible."

Her long lashes cast shadows as she looked down, fingers absently tracing patterns on her fork. "There's something suspicious about our current supplier. I need to investigate their operations thoroughly—find any weaknesses we can leverage to reduce damages."

Adrian's lips curved slightly, approval glinting in his dark eyes. "Spot on."

"That supplier has a history of problematic contracts," Adrian revealed. "Ethan's already gathered evidence and negotiated termination terms. He'll meet us at Dawson Enterprises this afternoon to finalize the cancellation and partial reimbursement. I'll accompany you."

Vivian's eyes widened in surprise, momentarily speechless. She hadn't anticipated Adrian working behind the scenes to resolve such a pivotal issue. A genuine smile touched her lips, gratitude shining through.

Adrian leaned in, his smirk turning predatory. "I must admit, you've got sharper business instincts than Richard ever did."

Vivian tilted her chin up defiantly. "Comes from my mother's side."

His hand moved to tousle her hair, his expression softening with concern. "Managing a corporation while maintaining your acting career and screenwriting—you're stretching yourself too thin."

She braced for criticism, shoulders squaring. "Nothing worth having comes easy."

Adrian interrupted with a shake of his head. "I'm not suggesting you quit. But you shouldn't carry this burden alone. I'll assign two competent assistants to lighten your load. Delegation is an essential skill, Vivian."

Her posture relaxed. In an uncharacteristic moment of vulnerability, she leaned forward and brushed her lips against his cheek, leaving behind the faint aroma of braised beef.

Adrian grimaced theatrically, reaching for a wet wipe.

When they arrived at Dawson Enterprises, Ethan stood waiting in the marble lobby. He handed Vivian a thick dossier.

She flipped through the meticulously compiled documents, impressed by the depth of information—far exceeding what her own investigations had uncovered. The evidence of Adrian's behind-the-scenes efforts was undeniable.