Chapter 100

Hearing Melissa's invitation, Vivienne paused, reflecting on the past. For the past three years, Everett had hosted a lavish birthday party, and Vivienne's absence had been conspicuous. The Mitchells, concerned about potential rumors surrounding her background, had maintained their distance. Why, then, this sudden dinner invitation?

Narrowing her eyes, she peered at Melissa with suspicion. "How thoughtful of you, Mrs. Mitchell. But no, thank you."

Melissa noticed Vivienne's cold, determined demeanor, a flicker of irritation crossing her face. "Even if you hold grievances against me, I'm trying to make amends. Can't you accept this gesture of goodwill?"

"Many might offer goodwill, but the Mitchell family is the last who should," Vivienne said coldly, turning away. She believed the Mitchells owed her far more than she owed them. Her difficult childhood had instilled a deep skepticism of others' kindness, making her carefully assess each act, whether genuine or obligatory. When the Mitchells had faced adversity, Vivienne had been the one to step up. Yet, her three years of unwavering support had been dismissed, her genuine affection for Warren characterized as desperate clinging. Since severing ties with Warren, any possibility of reconciliation with his family had vanished.

Had Everett not reached out personally, she would never have considered returning to the Mitchell family home. Free from sentimental ties, Vivienne walked toward Everett's favorite spot in the garden.

Seeking peace, Everett often escaped to the quiet garden where he could relax in a wicker chair, listen to music, and enjoy his coffee. As Vivienne approached, she saw him from a distance, seated in his usual spot, holding a birdcage and playing with his beloved parrot—a special gift from Vivienne years ago, which he had cherished ever since. The parrot's vibrant feathers testified to the meticulous care it received.

"Miss Hayes, you've arrived at last. Mr. Everett Mitchell spent the morning speaking of nothing else," a maid said, her face brightening with a smile.

Upon her arrival, Everett abandoned his birdcage and stood, his hand waving in warm welcome. "Ah, you're here at last, my dear! I've been eagerly awaiting your visit." A series of coughs escaped him as he gently clenched his fist.

"Are you alright?" Vivienne asked.

"It's just an old problem," he said, calming her concern with a slight nod. "I know my own body. It's nothing serious, nothing that's going to take me anytime soon."

"Don't say such things, please!" Vivienne's voice was sharp as she gave him a stern look. "It's your birthday; such words are unlucky."

Everett's laughter filled the air, and he touched her hand reassuringly, his smile dimming slightly. "I've heard about what happened between you and Warren. I'm not asking for forgiveness on anyone's behalf, just that you find it in you to move past it without too much burden."

Vivienne returned his smile, touched by his concern. "I had been wondering how to approach the subject, but you've made it easier by mentioning it," she said, pulling a red box from her bag and opening it to reveal a jade bracelet of stunning clarity. "Since Warren and I are no longer together, I think it's only right that this goes back to its original owner."

Everett's expression turned somber as he looked at the bracelet. Instead of happiness, a weight seemed to settle on his heart. He sighed deeply. "My dear, I've watched all you've done for the past three years. The Mitchell family is in your debt, and Warren even more so—a debt he can never repay. You should keep this bracelet. Consider it a token from me, something to remember me by."