Chapter 448

Vincent Lockwood remained stubborn. "Twenty thousand for my medical expenses," he demanded, rubbing his fake injury.

Adrian Blackwood's voice cut through the air like ice. "Shall we involve the police? They specialize in extortion cases."

The color drained from Vincent's face. His bravado crumbled as he forced a nervous laugh. "Wait, Mr. Blackwood! It's me - my mother Gwendolyn works at Seabreeze Villa. You've seen me around, remember?"

Vivian Hartley arched an eyebrow. Despite the scandal surrounding Gwendolyn's termination, her son appeared clueless about his mother's dismissal.

Under Adrian's glacial stare, Vincent backtracked hastily. "Okay, maybe just two thousand? Just enough for a quick check-up." His tone still carried traces of arrogance.

Vivian massaged her temples, a dull ache spreading behind her eyes. Whether from stress or the biting wind, she couldn't tell. "Just pay him, Ethan," she murmured wearily.

Turning to Adrian, she added, "I feel awful. Please handle this." Her words came out sluggish, her body heavy with exhaustion.

Adrian gave a terse nod. He despised being manipulated, but Vincent's fear was palpable. The reduced demand made the payoff worthwhile to avoid further drama.

Ethan Caldwell pulled out his phone. "Account details," he snapped.

Vincent's demeanor shifted instantly. "Vincent Lockwood. Account number 34—"

The name triggered a flicker of recognition in Vivian, but her discomfort overshadowed it. She curled tighter into herself.

Adrian noticed immediately.

Without comment, he draped a blanket over her shoulders. "Should I call Dr. Harrison?" His voice softened.

Vivian shook her head weakly. "Just chilled from standing outside. That fish at the studio was too strong - made me nauseous. I need rest."

Meanwhile, Ethan finished the transfer. "Money's sent," he warned. "But know this - everything's recorded. Try this again, and you'll regret it. Also, your mother Gwendolyn was fired months ago. She's got no connection to the Blackwoods."

"Fired?" Vincent muttered, checking his banking app. The notification blinked back at him.