Chapter 507

Adrian Blackwood stepped back into the room after finishing his phone call, his hand naturally finding Vivian Hartley's shoulder.

His touch was light, but the pride in his eyes spoke volumes. "Naturally," he said with a smirk. "This project's success belongs entirely to my wife." His teasing tone carried as he addressed the executives. "When bonus season comes, remember who earned your extra zeros."

The executives nodded enthusiastically, their admiration genuine. "Absolutely, Mrs. Blackwood! Just say the word - anything you want is yours."

Vivian's cheeks warmed under their praise. She nudged Adrian playfully, downplaying her role. "It wasn't just me. The timing aligned perfectly with the government's new policies. A month earlier or later, and we wouldn't have caught this wave."

"Perhaps," one executive countered with a smile. "But fortune favors the brilliant." He paused dramatically before adding, "With your intellect, grace, and charm, Mrs. Blackwood, you're like the legendary queens of old - destined to bring prosperity wherever you go."

Vivian bit back laughter, lowering her lashes to hide her amusement. Their flattery was theatrical, straight out of some period drama, but she had to admit - they were masters at their craft.

Nearby, Margaret Blackwood watched with quiet satisfaction. Her daughter-in-law had come so far, earning respect in ways she'd never anticipated. "Dinner is served," she announced warmly. "Shall we move to the dining room?"

Margaret was pleased to see Vivian helping Adrian excel professionally. Her initial concern had been Vivian's modest background making her seem like just a trophy wife. But Vivian had proven that even without family connections, she could be Adrian's equal partner.

As the group moved toward dinner, Beatrice Blackwood chuckled from her seat. "Our Vivian was truly a hidden gem, wasn't she? It's wonderful to finally see her shine."

The executives exchanged glances, guilt flickering across their faces as they remembered their earlier indifference. One cleared his throat earnestly. "It's not that Mrs. Blackwood was overlooked. We simply failed to recognize her brilliance sooner."

"Exactly!" another jumped in, seizing the chance to redeem himself. He turned to Adrian with a joking tone. "Mr. Blackwood, your instincts are unmatched - not just in business, but in choosing partners. While the rest of us were blind, you'd already secured the ultimate asset. Honestly, if we were your competitors, we'd surrender now."

Margaret observed quietly before suddenly serving Vivian a generous portion. "Eat more. You've gotten too thin. I may not understand your work completely, but seeing these business leaders respect you makes me proud. Though as a Blackwood, your primary responsibility remains starting a family."

Beatrice quickly added, "Don't misunderstand - we're not pressuring you. You're young, your body will recover beautifully. When Margaret had her children—"

Before she could finish, the atmosphere shifted palpably. While some executives maintained neutral expressions, most family members looked distinctly uncomfortable. Margaret dropped her spoon in surprise.

Lost in thought, Vivian's hand drifted unconsciously to her abdomen. Since the positive test, she often imagined feeling the baby's heartbeat, though she knew scientifically it was too early. Still, that maternal connection defied medical timelines.

"I—" Vivian began, but Beatrice smoothly redirected. "Try this organic chicken - our housekeeper's family raises them specially."

The executives, assuming Vivian was too young for motherhood talk, quickly changed subjects to ease the tension.