Chapter 153

“Didn’t I make it clear that Vivienne’s name should not be mentioned in front of others? Do you think my words carry no weight?” Melissa’s stern gaze fixed on Diana, her irritation evident. She had hoped Vivienne’s departure would finally allow her to regain her dignity, but she remained unsatisfied. The shadow of Vivienne’s reputation stubbornly clung to the Mitchell family.

“But this situation is unlike any other!” Diana interjected, her eyes twinkling mischievously. “She’s been implicated in illegal activities. It’s unlikely she’ll recover easily from this.” The memory of Vivienne slapping her at the hospital still stung, as did the isolation imposed because of her. Her disdain for Vivienne had deepened, and she reveled in cursing her daily. With Vivienne now facing public scandal, Diana’s delight was palpable.

“Caught in illegal activities?” Melissa’s interest was piqued. A wicked grin spread across her face as she scrolled through the harsh online comments. Her amusement only grew. “At the end of the day, she’s just a rough country girl. Does she really think owning Timeless Treasures lets her do whatever she wants? Now, she’s been caught red-handed!” Melissa was eager to see how Vivienne would maintain her pride.

“What did you just say?” Everett’s voice cut through the conversation.

Melissa’s eyes flickered. “It’s nothing significant.” Despite his age and general disinterest in social media, Everett sensed the sarcasm.

“What has happened to Vivienne?” He directed his question to Diana, who sat comfortably yet defiantly.

“Vivienne has been arrested for illegal transactions,” Diana responded sharply, her bitterness lingering. “Grandfather, you should be cautious. The pen holder she gave you might be proceeds from her illicit activities!”

“What were the illegal activities?” Everett asked, his brow furrowed.

With a smirk, Diana replied, “You’re out of the loop? She was arrested with a fraud ring. It’s all over the media. It seems unlikely she’ll recover from this scandal. At least she won’t be alone in Lyhaton; she’ll have her cellmates.”

Everett moved to the couch, put on his reading glasses, and checked the news on his phone.

Melissa, who had been silent, spoke up. “Everett, dwelling on this will only distress you. We’ve helped her far more than necessary. The Mitchell family has gone above and beyond, and we owe her nothing. She broke things off with Warren and refused his financial aid, trying to appear gracious. Luckily, she’s distanced herself from us. Otherwise, her troubles might have implicated us. Given her arrest, the accusations are likely to stick. We should keep her away from the anniversary event. Her presence would only shame our family.”

Everett looked up, his demeanor grave. “You may scorn her background, but don’t forget her vital role as a strategist for our family. Without her efforts, the Mitchell family wouldn’t be where it is today. She deserves to be at the anniversary celebration.”

Melissa looked away, hiding the coldness in her eyes.