Chapter 205: I Had To Make The First Move

When Vivienne felt she couldn’t breathe, Derek finally released her, leaving her gasping for air, his fingers lightly caressing her lips. “For three years, we shared starlit nights and dreams, planned futures and debated life’s meanings. I believed we shared an unparalleled connection.”

“What?” She was caught off guard by his sudden repeat of her own words.

“Are you pretending not to understand?” Derek quirked an eyebrow, his lips curling into a teasing smile.

Yet, Vivienne sensed a thread of seriousness beneath his playful tone. She blinked, uncertain of how to reply.

Impatient, Derek admitted, “Vivienne, I’m jealous.”

Upon hearing this, Vivienne’s expression softened, and she embraced him. “The past is the past. You are my present.”

“And I will be your future,” Derek said confidently, his hand cradling her neck, his gaze piercing into hers. “I just wish I had been part of your life sooner.”

He wasn’t concerned with her history; his only regret was not being there for her earlier. She wouldn’t have gone through so much alone if he had come into her life earlier.

A warmth spread through her as she gazed up into his eyes. His breath caressed her face, and she could feel the steady rhythm of his heart under her palm. His dark eyes brimmed with emotion, hinting he might kiss her once more.

Despite the familiarity of his features, her heart still fluttered uncontrollably at the sight of him. Her heart was racing.

“You can kiss me,” Derek whispered.

Vivienne was stunned, and before she could react, he kissed her once more. He watched her eyes go from shocked to annoyed, his smile spreading to his eyes.

Laughing softly as he pulled away, he teased her ear with a touch. “You’re always so shy. I had to make the first move.”

His words were cut short by the sound of her phone ringing. Spotting Owen’ name flashing on the display, she recalled leaving Sienna and Owen hanging.

With a quick glance at Derek, she moved to answer, stepping away slightly. “Yes, what’s up?”

Sienna’s voice came through loud and exasperated. “Where are you? Owen and I have been here for ages! Did you run off with some guy?”

Worried Derek might catch the conversation, Vivienne pressed the phone closer to her ear, but accidentally activated the speaker. Sienna’s voice echoed around the room. Derek must have overheard everything. Vivienne winced, wishing she could disappear.

Pausing briefly, Vivienne kept her composure. “Hello? Are you still there? The signal’s terrible.” She promptly ended the call.

Stunned, Sienna managed to blurt out, “What? This is ridiculous!”

Once the call was disconnected, Vivienne turned to find Derek smirking at her. Her face warmed with a flush of embarrassment.