Chapter 194

A dangerous gleam flickered in Vivienne's eyes, narrowing as she assessed the situation. Everything said so far felt like a preamble; their true demand lay in that final request.

With a smooth motion, she swirled her wine, asking with composed clarity, "What exactly are you asking me to explain?"

Melissa, reassured by Vivienne's seeming agreement, softened her tone. "It's easy, really. After Warren's speech, the press will surely ask about your past relationship. You just need to say it's over and that there's nothing left between you."

Their plan was obvious: to salvage Warren's image at Vivienne's expense. Warren had chosen Natalie over Vivienne, yet his family now expected Vivienne to bear the brunt of the blame to protect Warren's reputation from accusations of ingratitude. At the wedding, Warren's departure fueled gossip about Vivienne's supposed flaws. Complying with Melissa's request would only lend credence to these false rumors.

Acknowledging their cleverness, Vivienne met Melissa's gaze with a subtle smile. "You've thought this through thoroughly, Mrs. Mitchell." Her voice remained even, yet carried an unmistakable chill.

As Melissa's eyes locked with Vivienne's, a sudden chill crept down her spine, undermining her confidence. She managed to muster, "Vivienne, this is for the best. Remember, the Mitchell and Chambers families had a prior marriage agreement, making you the outsider. Plus, you vanished a month before your wedding day, only to reappear looking utterly lost and disheveled. Who knows what happened during that time? Warren didn't blame you and was ready to proceed with the marriage, showing more kindness than many would have. Yet, you ended things with him. Given the circumstances, it's only fair you offer an explanation now that Warren's reputation is at stake."

Listening calmly, Vivienne's smile remained polite, but her eyes betrayed a cold detachment. "I wonder why this marriage agreement is only now being discussed, if it was indeed pre-arranged?"

Melissa faltered, struggling to articulate a response. The so-called marriage agreement between the Mitchell and Chambers families had been little more than a jest years ago, but it held significant weight for the Mitchells.

At that moment, Everett intervened. "Vivienne, there's no need for concern. Warren will address everything later. He's at fault, and he'll face the consequences."

Vivienne shifted her gaze to Everett, then, after a brief look, burst into laughter.

Observing Vivienne's outburst, Melissa turned to Everett, puzzled by the reaction. The sound of Vivienne's laughter drew the attention of those nearby, prompting curious glances from many guests.

Melissa, noticing the growing interest, whispered, gently tugging Vivienne's sleeve, "What has gotten into you?"

"Forgive me. I just wasn't expecting such a theatrical display," Vivienne replied, feigning amusement.

Everett's expression darkened. "Vivienne..."

"I once believed you stood apart, Mr. Mitchell. It seems I was mistaken," Vivienne said coldly, her eyes filled with scorn and ridicule. "Today you celebrate the anniversary of Mitchell Group. Given your attention to detail, no mishaps would be tolerated on your watch."