Chapter 51

The shopkeeper was glued to his tablet, but a headline flashing familiar names caught Vivian's eye. "Blackwood Group CEO seen rushing to hospital for Serena Whitmore - paparazzi photos spark engagement rumors!"

Vivian's chewing slowed as she stared at the screen. The footage showed Adrian Blackwood striding through hospital doors, his handsome face twisted with concern.

Noticing her interest, the shopkeeper chuckled. "That actress is always in the hospital lately, and he's always running after her. Don't these rich people have anything better to do?"

It was true - this marked Serena's third "emergency" hospitalization this month. The theatrics were becoming tiresomely predictable, yet Adrian kept falling for them every time.

"Must be true love," Vivian quipped lightly, finishing her snack.

The gossip instantly killed her shopping mood. She stepped toward the curb to hail a cab when a sleek Rolls-Royce pulled up abruptly beside her.

The tinted window lowered to reveal Adrian's striking but stormy expression.

"Did you release that audition tape?" His voice was tight with accusation.

Vivian's mind connected the dots instantly. Of course. Whenever his precious Serena faced any trouble, Adrian came running to blame her. The predictability was almost laughable.

Was she just his convenient punching bag? The thought made her blood boil.

Crossing her arms, she smirked down at him. "Yes, I did it. What of it? She keeps stepping on me to get ahead. Should I just take it lying down? Do I look like a damn welcome mat to you?"

Adrian's jaw clenched as he noticed the gathering onlookers. "Get in the car. You're making a scene."

Ethan quickly exited the vehicle to open the door. "Mrs. Blackwood—"

"So now I'm embarrassing you?" Vivian scoffed. "Just sign the divorce papers already. Then my actions won't reflect on the great Adrian Blackwood."

She stood her ground, making no move to enter.

At the word "divorce," Adrian's expression darkened. "Do what you want. But consider this your final warning - Serena's emotionally fragile. Stay away from her if you know what's good for you."

Vivian's laugh was bitter. "Oh, now I'm the one bothering her? Why don't you tell your precious Serena to stay the hell away from me? Or do you enjoy this little drama, Mr. Blackwood?"

"What nonsense are you spouting now?" Adrian massaged his temples. "I regret ever letting you into entertainment. It's changed you."

Every conversation with Vivian had become a battle - her words sharp as knives, always drawing blood.