Chapter 170

As Derek's words settled, an eerie silence enveloped the table—so quiet that the faintest movement was audible. All eyes shifted toward Vivienne, their gazes laced with intrigue. Everyone seated with Wesley had close ties to the Vaughn family, making them well-acquainted with Derek. The fact that the usually detached Derek had personally extended an invitation only heightened their curiosity.

Under their scrutiny, Vivienne's lips curved into a composed yet enigmatic smile as she approached the chair he had pulled out for her with effortless grace.

"Vivienne!" Benjamin's voice rang out—firm, not quite a reprimand, but his displeasure was unmistakable. She turned toward him, her expression calm. Initially, she had only suspected her grandfather harbored a grievance against Derek, but now she was certain. He clearly disapproved of her closeness to him. Could it be that he knew Derek was her boyfriend? Her instincts, however, suggested the situation was more complicated.

Benjamin met her questioning gaze, immediately realizing his reaction had been too abrupt. Recomposing himself, he softened his tone. "That's not your seat, my dear. Come sit by me instead."

"No need for that," Derek interjected, his voice steady. "Miss Hayes and I seem to have much in common. I'd consider it a privilege to have her by my side."

With no room to argue, Benjamin conceded. As Vivienne settled into the seat, Derek's crisp, woody cologne enveloped her, its cool undertones distinctly masculine. Instinctively, she glanced at the man beside her. He had begun rolling up his sleeves, unfastening his diamond cufflinks with practiced ease. His forearm, corded with prominent veins, radiated quiet strength—like a predator lying in wait, exuding undeniable authority.

"Miss Hayes, do you have something to say to me?" Derek's voice was smooth, yet the weight of his words commanded attention. Every pair of eyes at the table turned toward them—including Benjamin's. Vivienne, ever observant, noted the subtle flicker of unease in her grandfather's expression. Suspicion stirred. Was there something between him and Derek that they were keeping from her? Now wasn't the time to press for answers.

Composing herself, she offered Derek a poised smile. "I appreciate your kindness, Mr. Hopkins."

Behind her, Milo nearly fumbled the water jug, his wrist trembling mid-pour. His gaze darted to Vivienne, a mix of surprise and uncertainty evident in his eyes. What exactly was she playing at?

Derek lifted his gaze at her words, his dark eyes settling on her with quiet intensity. After a moment, the smirk at the corner of his lips deepened. "You're welcome."

His presence cast a tension over the table, making even casual conversation feel restrained. It wasn't until Raina, draped in a gown, arrived with the groom that the mood shifted. The younger guests all stood, raising their glasses—everyone except Derek. Yet, not a single person dared question it. He wasn't someone they could afford to offend.

Raina hesitated when her gaze landed on him, then a knowing smile curved her lips. "Mr. Hopkins, here alone tonight? Where's Caleb?"

"Raina, mind your manners," Wesley chided, his tone edged with quiet authority. But Raina remained unfazed. As the only daughter in her generation of the Vaughn family, she was treated like royalty. It was no secret that part of Wesley's family's standing in Lyhaton stemmed from the Vaughn family's affection for Raina. Having grown up alongside Caleb, she had always been surrounded by powerful men—Derek included.