Chapter 177

“Who upset you?” Derek asked softly, stepping closer and gently taking Vivienne’s cold hand. “Why is your hand so cold?”

He felt her unease and, without hesitation, tucked her hand into his pocket. His deep voice held a quiet warmth. “Let me warm it for you, sweetheart.”

Vivienne glanced at his profile, a hint of a smile playing on her lips, but sadness tinged her voice. “Could you take me back to the Platinum Apartments later?”

Derek raised a hand, brushing her cheek gently as he nodded. “Of course.”

They walked out of Gourmet Spot, the evening air cool on their skin. Kason, after waving goodbye to Natalie, began to drive slowly down the street. He spotted Vivienne in the distance, experiencing a fleeting sense of déjà vu. He squinted, trying to place her face, but the memory eluded him, and he quickly dismissed it.

However, Natalie’s eyes darkened upon seeing Vivienne; hatred and jealousy flickered beneath her composed exterior. At that moment, the Gourmet Spot manager approached Vivienne, bowing slightly. Natalie froze, her eyes widening in disbelief.

Gourmet Spot, a Lyhaton institution, was always crowded—a testament to its owner's influence. The manager’s usual arrogance had been replaced by respectful deference toward Vivienne.

Natalie’s lips tightened, her gaze following the manager and Derek as they left. Unable to contain herself, she stepped forward. “Vivienne.”

At the sound of her name, Vivienne turned, her eyes narrowing with icy resolve. Natalie’s voice was sharp, venomous. “You really are like a persistent shadow.”

A faint smile touched Vivienne’s lips; her gaze sharpened with mocking amusement. “I didn’t realize you could still shine so brightly after all your family’s troubles.” Each word was laced with sarcasm, a stinging rebuke to Natalie’s pride.

Natalie’s expression darkened instantly, fury blazing in her eyes. Ever since Vivienne had left the Mitchell family, Natalie had lost her control, her ability to manipulate her. The sight of Vivienne, once trampled and belittled, now standing tall and mocking her, ignited uncontrollable jealousy. It swelled, consuming her, destructive and relentless.

Without hesitation, Natalie raised her hand to slap Vivienne. But Vivienne was quicker. She gripped Natalie’s wrist with surprising strength, pulling her closer, her eyes flashing a cold warning. “Natalie, are you trying to dig your own grave?”

In their high heels, they were almost the same height. But as their gazes locked, Natalie’s confidence crumbled. “You really think you can hit me?” Natalie hissed, struggling to free herself.

Vivienne tightened her grip, arching an eyebrow. “Hit you? I’m a lady of refinement.”

Natalie scoffed. “Hilarious. You dare call yourself that? Let go of me!”

With a swift movement, Natalie yanked, but Vivienne released her grip. Natalie stumbled, her heels betraying her, and she crashed backward into a nearby wooden screen. The crash echoed, drawing everyone’s attention.