Chapter 209: Rejected His Grandfather’s Advice
The downfall of the Mitchell family was a direct result of their relentless greed. They wanted to take advantage of Vivienne’s connections and wealth, even planning to use her to cover up Warren and Natalie’s affair. Yet, Vivienne was no ordinary figure; she was the heiress of the wealthy Sinclair family, the most influential lineage in Lyhaton. How could anyone think to manipulate her so easily?
“I’m different from them,” Derek declared.
Startled by Derek’s sudden declaration, Vivienne gazed at him in confusion. Derek cradled her face, his strong fingers brushing lightly across her lips. “I love you. I ask for nothing in return.”
As Vivienne blinked rapidly, trying to compose herself, she murmured softly, “I know that.”
“You don’t truly understand,” Derek replied, “or else, why remain so calm?” He was hinting that she should display more emotion.
A playful glint appeared in Vivienne’s eyes as she pulled him close and kissed him. Observing their intimate moment, Milo, who was sitting in the driver’s seat, discreetly raised the partition to give them some privacy. As their lips met, Derek wrapped an arm around her waist, lifted her onto his lap, and pressed her against the seat, taking control.
Derek had never expected to become so captivated by a woman. Being near Vivienne ignited a desire in him to always want more, to keep her close and watch over her constantly. His grandfather had always warned him against falling for anyone, warning him that love could become a vulnerability. However, Derek now rejected that advice, choosing instead to embrace his feelings for Vivienne fully. If Vivienne wanted it, he was ready to turn his entire world upside down for her.
Derek didn’t stop the kiss until he felt Vivienne was on the verge of suffocation. Her face was warm with a rosy tint as Derek’s fingers gently clasped the back of her neck, their foreheads close enough to share secrets, their noses just grazing each other. Then, unexpectedly, Derek’s laughter filled the air.
Looking up in confusion, Vivienne caught Derek’s gaze. Derek chuckled, his eyes gleaming with mischief. “I think I have a better understanding of the story—Helen of Troy.” His dark eyes held an affection that was impossible to put into words, and the soft smile on his lips made it nearly impossible to look away.
Vivienne’s eyebrow arched playfully as she asked, “Isn’t there a fear in you that I might just ruin your kingdom?”
“My kingdom is well-prepared to handle the chaos you bring,” Derek responded with a warm chuckle.
Engrossed in their intimate exchange, Derek and Vivienne remained oblivious to the outside world, where the Mitchell family faced increasing public disapproval. Some things don’t call for understanding, especially when an outsider interferes in a relationship. This was evident when the scandal at the anniversary celebration exploded, thrusting Natalie into the center of a social media frenzy, facing criticism that was harsh and personal.
Driven by rage, Natalie secluded herself in her bedroom, where she violently smashed her belongings in an attempt to calm herself. However, her rage remained, relentless. Her eyes landed on the fruit knife in a bowl. Grabbing it, she hacked furiously at an apple, each strike punctuated by a furious, “Bitch! Bitch! Bitch!”
A knock at her door paused her assault; her mother’s worried voice floated through, saying, “Natalie, are you there? Warren is waiting outside.” A quick glance at the disarray around her and the blood-tainted knife in her hand prompted Natalie to hastily start cleaning.
Meanwhile, outside her door, Sonia Chambers, alarmed by the silence, knocked even harder. “Natalie? Do you hear me? Please, Natalie.” Next to her, Warren’s expression was fraught with concern as he forcefully knocked, attempting to open the door. “Natalie, open up. It’s Warren.” He was about to force the door open when it suddenly swung wide.