Chapter 445

The filming wrapped up early when Vivian Hartley started feeling unwell. The set happened to be close to the Thornton family estate. As Vivian stepped out to hail a cab, she collided with Bianca Thornton, who was giggling drunkenly with her entourage. Bianca's flushed cheeks and glassy eyes betrayed her intoxicated state.

Spotting Vivian, Bianca staggered slightly before freezing mid-step. With a contemptuous sneer, she slurred, "You're pathetic! First plagiarizing scripts, then stealing from Vivian Hartley? How did Adrian ever marry trash like you? You're nothing but bad news!"

The surrounding socialites immediately recognized Vivian as Adrian Blackwood's wife. Though not from elite families themselves, they came from circles far more privileged than the Dawsons. Envious of Vivian's marriage into the Blackwood dynasty, they seized the opportunity to mock her.

"That Cinderella act won't erase your tacky roots. Still scrambling for every penny?"

"Her only redeeming quality is that mediocre face."

A platinum blonde stepped forward, voice dripping with venom. "New money girls must be experts at pleasing men in bed. Though I heard Mr. Blackwood has particular tastes - prefers his women clean. Guess that explains why he keeps you around like some glorified pet."

Their cruel laughter echoed through the plaza - until a sharp slap silenced them all. The blonde clutched her rapidly reddening cheek, shock rendering her speechless.

"How dare you!" she finally shrieked, lunging at Vivian. But Vivian, taller than most present, easily caught her wrist mid-swing. Turning her icy gaze to Bianca, she said calmly, "Control your rabid friend, or shall I call Adrian about this harassment?"

Bianca hadn't anticipated such defiance. "Running to Adrian again? Is that all you can do?" she spat after a stunned pause.

Vivian's lips curved slightly. "I learned from the best. Weren't you the one playing damsel in distress with your aunt? Unlike you, I don't wait around to be destroyed."

"You struck first!" Bianca trembled with rage as Vivian shoved the blonde toward her, sending the woman sprawling. Towering over them, Vivian's voice turned glacial.

"As Adrian Blackwood's lawful wife and mistress of Blackwood Manor, any insult to me dishonors the entire Blackwood name. Consider this your warning."

"Who are you to lecture me?" Bianca retreated, voice shrill. "My friend's right - you're utterly unworthy of Adrian!"