Chapter 154
Diana’s youthful impulsiveness sharply contrasted with Melissa’s calm composure. When Everett defended Vivienne, Diana retorted, “What hold does Vivienne have on you that makes you defend her so fiercely? You act like she’s your own family!” A touch of bitterness tinged her words.
Everett put down his reading glasses and glanced over; despite his age, his eyes held a hint of sharpness. “Getting heated will only complicate things for you in the end.” He knew Vivienne’s situation was more complicated than it appeared. Considering Vivienne’s ownership of Timeless Treasures, she had plenty of legitimate ways to earn a living. The question remained: why engage in forgeries and illegal dealings, risking so much? The full truth was yet to be uncovered.
Feeling unfairly treated, Diana’s emotions swelled, a mix of frustration and grievance rising within her. Tears welled up, but before she could retort, Melissa soothingly took her hand, patting it as a signal to remain composed.
“Do you not see what Diana is like?” Melissa asked Everett softly. “She has a habit of making quick judgments, a trait she’s had since childhood. Even her grandmother couldn’t curb her impulsive nature. Diana struggles with understanding nuances; I promise to help her improve.”
Everett nodded in approval. “Guidance is indeed what she needs to avoid future mishaps.”
Melissa offered a forced smile. “Exactly.” Still, deep down, she scoffed. With the internet turning against Vivienne, her guilt seemed almost undeniable. Once Vivienne’s verdict was announced, Melissa was curious to see why Everett would still include Vivienne in the Mitchell Group’s upcoming anniversary.
Diana, visibly upset, abruptly withdrew her hand with a frown. At that moment, a live stream notification popped up on her phone. She looked at the screen, displaying an alert from the police broadcast. “Check this out—a live broadcast!”
As she watched the drama unfold, a glint of wicked satisfaction flashed in her eyes. Comment after comment scrolled across the live chat, each proclaiming the same verdict—fraudsters must be brought to justice! Worried Larris would miss it, Diana quickly cast the stream onto the large living room TV.
Turning to Everett, she noticed him slowly donning his reading glasses, his face serious as he focused on the screen. Meanwhile, Vivienne sat in the interrogation room, legs crossed, hands relaxed on her lap, presenting an air of indifference and subtle defiance—hardly the image of a typical suspect. It almost appeared as if she were conducting the interrogation, not undergoing it. The officers felt the tension, standing taller as they tried to maintain their authority in her commanding presence. This was a first—facing a suspect as bold as Vivienne.
With a steady, composed look, Vivienne surveyed the room and said, “Now that we’re all here, let’s discuss the matter at hand.”
“Alright,” everyone instinctively responded, then realized their mistake. This was an interrogation; they were supposed to lead it—how had the roles reversed?
Breaking the silence, one officer sternly said, “Vivienne Hayes, mind your attitude! Based on what we’ve gathered from other suspects, you were pulling the strings. Are you still going to deny your involvement in the crime?”