Chapter 470

Vivian hesitated to respond, but Audrey cut in swiftly. "Absolutely, we'll attend. And we're bringing our significant others. Let's see if your so-called sophisticated gentleman dares to show his face in public!"

Giselle scoffed, adjusting her designer purse. "He'll be there, darling. Unlike some people's mediocre husbands, my man commands attention. Vivian, if you're tired of being tied to that nobody, just say the word. Victor knows plenty of influential men."

With one last contemptuous glance around the boutique, Giselle announced, "Pathetic selection. I won't waste my time here again."

Audrey turned to Vivian with gleaming eyes. "You must bring Adrian. I'm dying to see Victor's reaction when he realizes that 'insignificant employee' is actually the Blackwood heir."

Vivian stared into her coffee cup, the delicate foam heart now dissolved into shapeless bubbles. Her emotions felt equally turbulent. She had no doubt Adrian would attend. The real concern was their increasingly strained relationship. Playing the perfect power couple might only deepen the cracks between them.

Meanwhile, Adrian was wrapping up at Blackwood Group headquarters, contemplating dinner plans with Vivian when his phone buzzed. Serena's name flashed on the screen.

"Adrian," came the playful voice when he answered, "I'm at this charming little bistro but forgot my wallet. They don't accept cards here."

"Shouldn't you be at the medical center? Where's Miranda?" Adrian's brow furrowed with concern.

Serena's voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper. "Don't tell Miranda! She was at the office today, so I sneaked out. Hospital food is torture - I'd rather starve than endure another bland meal."

The youthful lilt in her voice unexpectedly transported Adrian back to their university days.

"Send me your location. I'm on my way," Adrian said brusquely before ending the call. He glanced at Vivian's contact still open on his screen, then locked his phone decisively.

Audrey had been shopping with relentless enthusiasm, selecting outfits and accessories. Vivian modeled various ensembles - her natural grace elevated every look, though the process felt increasingly tedious.

As they exited the boutique, a necktie caught Vivian's eye. The midnight silk shimmered with platinum threads forming celestial constellations. Remembering Adrian's appreciation for meaningful gifts, she handed it to the sales associate. "Could you wrap this, please?"

Audrey emerged in her latest purchase, catching the exchange. Expecting teasing about her romantic gesture, Vivian was surprised when Audrey simply asked, "Do they have this in emerald? Dominic would adore it."

Returning to Seabreeze Villa, Vivian found the older guests had departed.

The housekeeper approached, drying her hands. "Mrs. Blackwood, have you eaten? Mr. Blackwood mentioned he won't be joining you for dinner tonight."

"Just something light," Vivian replied casually, slipping off her heels. She placed Adrian's gift on the side table near his reading nook before retreating to the walk-in closet to change.

The silence of the villa felt heavier than usual as twilight painted the ocean-view windows in shades of gold and violet. Vivian's fingers lingered on the gift box, her reflection in the floor-to-ceiling mirrors showing the subtle tension around her eyes that no amount of practiced smiles could conceal.