Chapter 125

“This requires more explanation than a few words,” Vivienne said, grasping Derek’s hand and attempting to guide him toward the exit before Benjamin arrived. The sound of approaching footsteps, however, signaled that time had run out.

“It’s too late,” she whispered, her anxiety evident. Desperation etched her features as she frantically searched for a solution.

Derek’s eyebrow arched. Amusement twinkled in his eyes. “Consider this your boyfriend’s inevitable first meeting with your family—it had to happen eventually.”

Vivienne barely registered his words, her gaze darting around before settling on her large desk. Without hesitation, she pulled Derek under it. “I apologize for the indignity,” she murmured.

Derek was momentarily speechless. “Vivienne,” he said finally, his grip tightening on her wrist, dark eyes conveying a warning, “you’re truly the first person who’s dared to treat me this way.”

“Desperate times call for desperate measures,” she replied, rising on her toes to kiss him quickly. She offered a sweet smile. “Just cooperate, please.”

“You think I’m so easily managed?” he challenged.

“How about a date tonight to make up for it?” she countered.

That settled it. Derek willingly maneuvered himself under the desk.

The office door swung open. Benjamin entered, his presence exuding generations of business acumen. Even in retirement, his legendary prowess remained the industry's talk. He leaned on his cane, surveying the room. “Scarlett mentioned you had a visitor?”

Vivienne cast a furtive glance at the sulking Derek before smoothly replying, “He’s already departed.”

Benjamin nodded slightly. “Harvey tells me you’re planning to move out?”

“The company secured a new project,” Vivienne explained. “Late nights will be common, and commuting from home isn’t practical.”

Benjamin’s expression grew serious. His brows furrowed. “Vivienne, be honest—are you seeing someone?”

Her heart faltered. “Grandpa, I—”

“The maid discovered wilted roses in your room this morning,” Benjamin interrupted, his deep voice cutting through her attempted response. “While I don’t oppose dating, a young woman must exercise caution. The world harbors many dangers, and people can be deceptive. At your age, you might not recognize these duplicitous characters.”

The “duplicitous character” under the desk was stunned. Derek idly wondered how Benjamin would react to proof of his engagement to Vivienne.

Noticing Derek’s darkening mood and fearing impulsive action, Vivienne reached down to smooth his hair, calming him as one might a restless animal.

“Grandpa,” Vivienne said, approaching Benjamin and linking their arms, “given my qualities, it’s only natural that I attract suitors. Or is it your wish that no one cherishes or loves me?” She leaned against him with childlike affection.

Benjamin snorted protectively. “Those fools must be blind not to see your worth!” After a pause, he added, “Consider your uncles—I don’t fret when they’re gone for days, but you’re different. A young woman is safer at home.”

She understood—he feared she might be swept away by romance. Clearing her throat, she said, “Grandpa, the move is purely professional. While I am seeing someone, I’m being careful.”

“Who is he? His age? His background?” he asked, the questions tumbling out rapidly.

Observing Benjamin’s concern, Vivienne decided the timing wasn't right for revelations. She glanced at the desk before replying, “I’ll make proper introductions when the moment is right.”

Benjamin’s expression darkened, his gaze unreadable as he studied his granddaughter.