Chapter 73

Vivian's fingers tightened around her coffee cup as Serena's voice softened unexpectedly. "I understand, really. When you're a wealthy housewife with no financial concerns, emotions can easily spiral out of control."

Adrian's jaw clenched as he rubbed his temples. "Supported by someone else? I've given her everything. Name one woman in Crestwood who lives better than she does."

Serena sighed, her tone laced with resignation. "But happiness is subjective, isn't it? Maybe Damien Vaughn offers her something... different. Perhaps she's finally pursuing what truly makes her happy."

Outside the Hazelnut Time Coffee Shop, Vivian turned to face Damien who had followed her out. A dull ache pulsed at her temples. She couldn't care less about Adrian's assumptions now - her priority was keeping Damien out of her personal affairs.

She was searching for a polite way to dismiss him when movement caught her eye. Across the street, Audrey stood in a curve-hugging red dress, waving enthusiastically.

"Darling! Congratulations on your newfound freedom!" Audrey called out with a mischievous grin.

Vivian froze momentarily, stunned by Audrey's sudden appearance from Frostholm. Turning back to Damien, she offered an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry, my friend just arrived unexpectedly. I should go."

"And about that audition - just text me the details. My schedule's wide open these days," Vivian added quickly, grabbing Audrey's arm and steering her away.

Inside the taxi, Vivian studied her old friend. "What brought you back?"

"Couldn't track down Sess overseas, so here I am," Audrey replied casually, stretching her legs. She leaned forward to instruct the driver, "Mirage Lounge, please."

Vivian's eyes narrowed. "How did you know where to find me?"

Audrey smirked, twirling a strand of hair around her finger. "Please, nothing happens in this industry without me knowing. Especially when Mr. Vaughn was meeting with Katrina Spencer right here."

Only Audrey knew Vivian used that pseudonym.

With a playful nudge, Audrey teased, "I'd only heard Damien Vaughn's name before. Had no idea he was that gorgeous. Why not give him a chance now that you're rid of that bastard Adrian?"

The memory of Adrian's cruel words still stung. "Don't even start," Vivian cut in sharply. "I'm focusing on my career right now."

"Fine, fine," Audrey conceded, her smile bright. "Tonight's about celebrating your freedom anyway."

They'd been inseparable since high school. Back then, Audrey was the quiet, struggling student while Vivian was the class representative who often covered for her missed assignments. Their friendship solidified when Audrey collapsed in class one day - Vivian carried her to the infirmary despite twisting her ankle, then stayed by her side for hours.

During their sophomore year, Audrey had rebelled against her father's plans to marry her off for business alliances. Claiming she needed to study abroad, she escaped to Frostholm for seven years before returning to build the life she wanted.