Chapter 183

Vivienne immediately resumed her work after the call. As noon approached, Rosalie, fresh from her morning poster session, and Sienna entered Vivienne's office.

"Hey Vivienne, lunch?" Sienna asked.

Vivienne looked up, a gentle smile gracing her face. "What are you two craving?"

Sienna playfully nudged Rosalie. "Looks like Vivienne's treating! Let's splurge."

Rosalie suggested, "There's a new restaurant on the east side. Should we try it?"

"Absolutely!" Sienna exclaimed.

They briefly waited for Scarlett before leaving. The four friends, bonded since high school, cherished these reunions, finding comfort and excitement in their shared history. Their drive was filled with nostalgic laughter. Even quiet Scarlett joined in, saying, "I actually believed those rumors about Rosalie being a wild child before we became friends."

In her youth, Rosalie was known for her bold style, dramatic makeup, and questionable haunts. She was often at the center of disputes, even the occasional street brawl. Local troublemakers vied for her attention. Yet, life held surprises. Who would have imagined the girl once labeled "trouble" would become a guiding light for Scarlett?

Scarlett, contemplating this transformation, observed Rosalie. Their eyes met, and Scarlett blushed.

"Really, Rosalie's always been misunderstood," Sienna interjected. "It's Vivienne who's the crafty one, pulling strings discreetly." Sienna glanced at Vivienne in the rearview mirror; Vivienne's smile hinted at an inside joke.

With a playful smirk, Vivienne retorted, "Well, you know what they say about birds of a feather."

The new restaurant, popular due to clever advertising and enticing discounts, thankfully had a reservation secured by Rosalie. Otherwise, they would have faced a long wait.

As they approached their room, a door swung open. Natalie emerged, her face clouded with displeasure at the sight of Vivienne and her friends.

Warren, noticing her change in mood, asked, "What's wrong?"

Regaining her composure, Natalie smiled reassuringly. "It's just Kason; he's already at the front. We should go."

"Alright," Warren replied.

During their meal, Warren steered the conversation towards Natalie's father. "Any news on Mr. Collins?"

Kason placed his wine glass down, his expression grave. "After investigating, I suspect the Sinclair family is involved."

Warren looked alarmed, glancing at Natalie. Natalie visibly paled. The Sinclairs evoked both respect and fear in Lyhaton. Their influence was immense; even minor actions had city-wide repercussions. In Lyhaton, the Sinclairs were untouchable.

Challenging them was suicidal, especially for Natalie's already struggling family. Yet, Natalie clung to a flicker of hope. She clarified, "You mean the Sinclair family, Lyhaton's most affluent?"

"Absolutely," Kason confirmed resolutely.