Chapter 191

The oppressive silence on the other end of the line made it difficult for Milo to breathe. He quietly acknowledged that even the most collected and strategic minds could be ensnared by love's intricacies. He took a sharp breath before cautiously saying to Derek, “Mr. Hopkins, I hear the Mitchell family is preparing a large anniversary celebration for their company, and Miss Hayes is invited. Should we intervene?”

“There’s no need,” Derek responded, already grasping the implications. “Assign someone to discreetly ensure she remains unbothered.”

“What?” Milo’s voice rose in surprise. Derek’s generosity was unexpected. Despite Vivienne’s ex being a Mitchell, Derek remained astonishingly unconcerned. Was Derek playing hard to get, feigning disinterest as a subtle strategy? These thoughts swirled in Milo’s mind, hinting at potential romantic entanglements. However, his daydream was shattered by a sharp, cold voice: “You don’t understand?” The voice was as chilling as a flowing icy river.

Regaining his focus, Milo responded, “I understand, Mr. Hopkins.” The call ended abruptly. With a deep sigh, Milo began carrying out Derek’s instructions.

Soon, the anticipated day of the Mitchell Group’s anniversary arrived. Befitting their elevated status, they had chosen the luxurious Dreamscape Hotel as the venue. The Mitchell family gathered at the entrance, eagerly awaiting Vivienne’s arrival. However, as evening approached and Vivienne remained absent, restlessness grew among the waiting hosts.

“Why is Vivienne making us wait like this? Is she doing this deliberately?”

“We extended an invitation as a gesture of respect, and yet she treats it with such arrogance.”

“I never wanted to invite her in the first place, and now we look foolish.”

Everett caught the murmurs, his face tightening with displeasure. With a firm grip, he slammed his cane to the ground and commanded in a hushed tone, “Silence!” His anger silenced the group. Everyone looked around, their eyes accusing.

Natalie then said softly, “Everett, all the guests are here. Perhaps you should go inside to welcome them? I can wait for Vivienne.” Her voice was soft, reflecting the poise expected of a woman of her standing.

Everett glanced at Natalie. In her white gown, dark brown curls flowing down her back, she was the epitome of grace and elegance. Standing beside Warren, they looked a perfect match. The Mitchells intended to reveal Warren and Natalie’s upcoming engagement to the press at the anniversary. Her attire, therefore, was impeccable. Everett had initially considered postponing, but the Chambers family’s urgency was pressing. They had once rescued the Mitchells from financial ruin, on the condition that Natalie marry Warren. A formal wedding felt rushed, so Everett agreed only to announce their upcoming engagement.

“If you prefer, you may all go inside and relax. I’ll continue waiting for her here.” Everett steadied himself with his cane and stood watch. The others hesitated, torn between following Everett’s suggestion and staying put, ultimately lingering awkwardly.