Chapter 97

Adrian's reply was frosty and abrupt. "They're not compatible."

Reginald arched an eyebrow, mistaking the comment as criticism toward Vivian. "Well, everyone has their preferences. You've always valued character over superficial charm, Mr. Blackwood."

Adrian, irritated and weary, merely gave a dismissive grunt.

Margaret's approach caught Reginald's attention. "Mr. Blackwood, you're here to meet your mother?" He greeted her with practiced warmth. "Mrs. Blackwood, you should have notified me of your arrival. With today's crowd, I apologize for not receiving you properly."

After exchanging formalities, Reginald tactfully withdrew, sensing the palpable tension surrounding the Blackwood family.

Margaret didn't mince words, her tone razor-sharp. "Where's Vivian?"

Bianca, ever the eager tattletale, scanned the venue and pointed. "Aunt Margaret, over there - chatting with that Vaughn man again!"

Margaret's expression soured instantly. Her voice cut through the air like a whip. "Why aren't you controlling your wife better? What kind of impression does it give when she's cozying up to another man at such an important function?"

Bianca, never one to miss an opportunity to stir trouble, added with feigned concern, "Exactly, Aunt Margaret! Think of the gossip this could spark. The Blackwood name doesn't need this kind of scandal."

Adrian massaged his temples, feeling the onset of a migraine. His patience wearing thin, he retorted sharply, "Damien and Vivian are discussing business. This is a professional event - networking is expected. There's nothing improper about working at a party."

Margaret's frown deepened, her displeasure turning to open contempt. "So that's your stance? You'd rather play peacemaker than hold her accountable? Fine, if you won't handle it, I will." She turned decisively to Bianca. "Fetch Vivian immediately."

Bianca's eyes gleamed with malicious delight. Like a soldier given orders, she marched toward Vivian and seized her wrist. "Aunt Margaret demands you come with us now."

Vivian, aware of the curious glances directed their way, allowed herself to be led to a secluded corner before shaking off Bianca's grip with quiet dignity. "Bianca, let's be clear - I'm your cousin's wife, a Blackwood by marriage, not some errand girl for the Thorntons. Remember your place."

Bianca smirked, barely containing her smugness. "Oh please, spare me the lecture. I'm just delivering a message. Aunt Margaret thinks you should stop making a spectacle of yourself, flirting with every man in sight. The Blackwoods don't need a daughter-in-law with questionable morals."

Vivian laughed, the sound brittle and cold. "How convenient. I don't wish to remain a Blackwood daughter-in-law anyway. Adrian already has the divorce papers. If Margaret's so concerned, perhaps she should convince her precious son to sign them so we can both move forward."

Bianca's smirk faltered, replaced by genuine shock. "You're joking. After everything you've done to secure your place in this family? Why throw away this wealth, this status?"

The unspoken question hung heavily between them. Deep down, Bianca knew Vivian loved Adrian, even if she masked it with indifference now. That love had cost Vivian dearly - her pride, her peace, perhaps even her identity.