Chapter 195

"Can you honestly claim you didn't orchestrate today's events?" Vivienne asked, her smile sharpened with sarcasm. "If you were truly ready to let Warren be accountable, why would you go to such lengths to have me here?"

Everett remained silent, his pallor deepening under her direct gaze. "It seems you've already decided," she continued, "to sacrifice me to protect the Mitchell family's wealth and prestige. Why maintain this charade? Do you expect me to simply accept the blame, or hope I'll still care about the Mitchell family after everything?"

"Vivienne…" Everett began, visibly shaken, his voice strained.

"Are you really expecting both my thanks and public praise? Isn't that asking a bit much?"

Her words visibly staggered him. He gripped his cane for support. "Vivienne, I realize you're angry, but try to see it from my perspective. This company represents the Mitchell family legacy. I can't stand by and watch it crumble."

"Is your solution to use me as a pawn?" Vivienne's gaze pierced him with disdain.

Everett hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "My dear, I know the Mitchell family has mistreated you…"

"You don't know the half of it," Vivienne retorted sharply, her respect for him vanished, replaced by a cold distance. "Don't worry. I came prepared."

Giving Everett and Melissa a meaningful glance, Vivienne turned and strode towards the stage, her back to them. Melissa, noticing Vivienne's subtle smile, felt a surge of worry, sensing a plan unfolding.

On stage, Warren recounted the Mitchell Group's history and ambitious future plans, to enthusiastic applause. As he left the stage, following the schedule, journalists swarmed him.

"Mr. Mitchell, what are your future plans?" one reporter asked. Others followed with questions about his engagement and rumored relationship with another woman.

A scowl crossed Warren's face as he saw the approaching reporters. Then, Vivienne's calm voice echoed from the back. "I will address your questions one at a time."

Warren glanced back to see Vivienne standing near the stage, her striking features illuminated by the lights. Yet, her detached expression and aloof aura made her seem unapproachable, like a rose guarded by thorns.

From the audience, Melissa watched with growing dread, silently hoping Vivienne would adhere to their agreement.

"As we celebrate Mitchell Group's 30th anniversary," Vivienne began, "I'm honored to be here. Many of you know me, but for some, let me introduce myself."