Chapter 146
Milo burst into Derek's office, his footsteps echoing urgently. He found Derek seated behind his desk, those dark eyes radiating an intensity that pierced through everything, creating an almost palpable aura of danger. The weight of Derek's penetrating stare made Milo's chest constrict; his fingers curled into tight fists. Drawing a steadying breath, he ventured cautiously, "Sir, I encountered Miss Hayes at the police station."
The mention of Miss Hayes caused a subtle shift in Derek's glacial demeanor. He set down his pen with deliberate care. "Was this a professional visit?"
Milo observed the strange juxtaposition of calm and intensity in Derek's bearing. Though tempted to lighten the mood, he recognized that anything concerning Vivienne demanded absolute seriousness. The consequences of any misfortune befalling her would be severe.
"The complete picture remains unclear," Milo continued carefully. "However, I overheard the investigating officers mention Miss Hayes's possible involvement in illegal transactions, potentially connected to a case from three years ago…"
Before he could elaborate, Derek snatched his coat and strode from the office, leaving Milo momentarily stunned. While he had always known of Derek's regard for Vivienne, the depth of his concern surprised him. Considering Derek's anxious departure, Milo allowed himself a small smile—perhaps this year's bonus would see a substantial increase.
Meanwhile, at the police station, Vivienne maintained an air of studied nonchalance, legs crossed elegantly, chin propped on one hand, periodically glancing at the wall clock. Her demeanor suggested expectation, as if awaiting someone's arrival. Her subtle movements did not go unnoticed by the officers in the surveillance room.
"Are these the suspects you mentioned?" an officer asked when a graceful figure entered the observation area.
Natalie approached the one-way glass, her gaze settling on the handcuffed Vivienne. Her pent-up frustration dissipated. Her gaze then shifted to the two men. "Those two—I would know them anywhere, even reduced to ash!" These were the men who had sold her the counterfeit gem, leading to her humiliation before the Mitchell family.
The officers exchanged glances. "Miss Natalie, we appreciate your cooperation. You're free to leave once the paperwork is complete," an officer informed her.
"Leave?" Natalie's surprise quickly morphed into a practiced smile. "But what about them? They defrauded me of over two million." Though the sum meant little to her personally, Natalie refused to let the matter rest. She craved Vivienne's degradation, yearning to witness her rival's shame.
"We will keep you informed of any developments," the officer stated firmly. "Please, Miss Natalie, follow me."
Faced with the officer's resolute stance, Natalie complied. As she left, she cast a venomous glance at Vivienne, her eyes glittering with malice, like a serpent ready to strike. Justice would prevail, she thought; Vivienne would soon taste disgrace.
In the interrogation room, Vivienne seemed to sense the hostile scrutiny. She raised her gaze toward Natalie, her expression impassive. Her eyes held the biting chill of midwinter frost, a coldness that could freeze blood. In that brief moment, Natalie felt her heart constrict, her breath catching. A flicker of primal fear crossed her features as she stammered, "Can she see me?"