Chapter 442

Adrian paused, captivated by the radiant smile lighting up Vivian's face.

His voice dropped to a murmur. "Care to explain why you want it in cash?"

Vivian blinked her doe eyes innocently. "It's straightforward. You're investing ten million in me—whether through a pen or cash makes no difference. The value remains identical, doesn't it?"

Studying her intently, Adrian's lips curved. "Is this really you, Vivian? Or has some money-hungry imposter taken over? Just months ago, you scoffed at wealth, dreaming of abandoning material possessions. Now you're haggling over a pen's worth."

He leaned closer, amusement dancing in his eyes. "Has reality finally taught you that even romance needs financial backing?"

Vivian squared her shoulders. "Haggling? How crude. I've simply realized something—you're being deliberately difficult. Earning money is challenging, but managing it? That's an art. This isn't just your money anymore—it's ours. While I may not contribute equally financially, I'm investing my effort in managing it. Doesn't that count for something?"

Without missing a beat, Adrian whipped out his phone. His fingers flew across the screen as he transferred the funds. "Twenty million. Buy whatever pen your heart desires. Now hand it over."

Vivian rose gracefully, retrieving the sleek pen box from the nightstand. She placed it in his palm with deliberate care.

Adrian examined the pen, testing its weight. He struck several poses—fingers curled around the barrel, pretending to write—snapping photos until satisfied. Opening WhatsApp, he frowned at the missing chat. Right—he'd blocked Dominic earlier.

After unblocking him, Adrian sent the chosen photo with a caption: "My wife's latest gift."

"Received so many presents I've grown numb to showing off. This one's worth a hundred grand—could buy several of your pathetic flower arrangements, no?"

Dominic's screen flooded with previously undelivered messages marked by angry red exclamation points. Just as irritation spiked, Adrian's latest message popped up.

His eyebrows shot up. Was this some childish competition?

Fingers flying, he responded: "Gifts aren't about price tags but thoughtfulness. Mine clearly held deeper meaning."

Adrian smirked, recalling an internet meme. He typed: "No money, no honey."

Dominic stared at his screen, momentarily speechless. Never had he imagined Adrian—for whom wealth was mere numbers—would spout such a clichéd line.

He conceded with a laughing-crying emoji: "Fine, you win this round."

Adrian's eyebrow arched in triumph.

After dinner, Adrian departed for his office while Vivian headed to the studio set.

Upon arrival, she spotted a crowd gathered around Damien Vaughn, engaged in animated discussion. Noticing her, Damien broke away with a welcoming smile.