Chapter 187
Warren's eyes widened in shock as he processed Everett's suspicions. "Are you suggesting Vivienne could be from the Sinclair family?"
Everett's brow furrowed deeply, his expression solemn. He nodded slightly, meeting Warren's gaze.
Warren recalled Vivienne being treated as a guest of honor by the Vaughn family, laughing and conversing comfortably with Scarlett. He fell silent, his thoughts swirling in uncertainty. An uneasy stillness filled the room.
Everett broke the silence, shaking his head. "That doesn't quite add up. It's well known Benjamin dotes on his granddaughter, even though she carries a different surname. She's always been the Sinclair family's treasure, their heir apparent."
His voice lowered. "If Vivienne were a Sinclair, with Benjamin's devotion, why would he let her stay with the Mitchells all these years?"
The enigma of Vivienne's identity seemed unsolvable.
Warren, lost in thought, ventured, "Maybe it's a coincidence?" He shifted uncomfortably. "I've thoroughly investigated her background. There shouldn't be any mistakes." A nagging unease grew in his chest.
Everett set down his water glass with a soft thud. "You should quietly revisit this investigation."
"I understand, Grandpa," Warren replied, his lips pressed thin. Pausing, he added, "Actually, there's something else I need your help with."
"You want me to reach out to Vivienne?" Everett's sharp gaze settled on Warren, his voice steady but knowing.
A pang of shame washed over Warren as he met his grandfather's piercing eyes. "I've tried to make amends, but Vivienne refuses to forgive me. That's why I need your help, Grandpa."
Everett understood Vivienne's nature. Forgiveness was rare when she held a grudge. Her connection to the Mitchells had never been deep, and Warren's betrayal extinguished any lingering loyalty. After Diana's outburst at the birthday party, Everett had shielded Diana to preserve the Mitchell family's public image. Vivienne's feelings had since grown colder, more distant. Yet, Everett knew his choice between the Mitchell family and Vivienne would always be clear—the Mitchell family, a legacy built over generations.
"Return to your residence. I'll take care of this," Everett said firmly.
After Warren left, a servant, sensing Everett's hesitation, spoke up. "Mr. Mitchell, that call could sever the three-year bond with Miss Hayes."
Everett nodded grimly. He understood the consequences, but the future of the Mitchell family left little room for personal sentiment. He had to sacrifice his relationship with Vivienne. He dialed her number.
"Vivienne, it's me," Everett said, his voice steady but heavy.
Vivienne, anticipating the call, was unsurprised. Her voice was flat. "What do you need?"
"Nothing urgent. I wanted to ask if you could attend the Mitchell Group's anniversary celebration this weekend."
Vivienne twirled a pen, her gaze distant. "The affairs of the Mitchell family are no concern of mine. I'm under no obligation to attend."
"Vivienne, I know you hold a grudge. I'm willing to make amends, so could you—"
"Thank you for looking after me during those three years," Vivienne interrupted, her voice icy. "I'll grant you one request. But after that, there will be no more ties between us." She paused. "As for your request, think it through before contacting me again."
She ended the call.
Sienna, resting her chin in her hand, watched Vivienne disapprovingly. "When will you stop refusing to owe anyone anything?"