Chapter 216: A Testament to His Commitment

Derek’s proposal was straightforward, lacking fancy declarations or elaborate promises. Yet, Vivienne felt the impact of his words as if struck by lightning. A flicker of panic crossed her eyes upon hearing his suggestion. Derek’s plain statement carried a depth that Vivienne fully grasped. He intended this simplicity as a testament to his commitment. He pledged to stand by her through every challenge life might throw their way—through sickness and health, prosperity and adversity, forever ready to defend and cherish her.

A tightness formed in Vivienne’s throat. Bitterness swelled, rendering her speechless. Tears sprang to her eyes, clouding her vision. Vivienne’s lips quivered as she pressed them together, her hand slipping from the desk’s edge to her lap, gripping her dress firmly. She wondered why destiny had taken so long to bring Derek into her life.

After a weighty silence, she inhaled sharply, steadying her trembling voice. “I’ll manage this situation properly.”

On the other side of the call, Derek listened in silence, giving her space.

“I will not be a burden or a weak spot in your life. I promise to stand equal to you, capable and strong.”

Determined to match his unwavering support, Vivienne resolved to give her all.

“Okay.” Derek’s response was tender and understanding. “If you feel like crying, let it out. There’s no need to hold back, love.”

A faint smile broke through Vivienne’s tears at his words. “I understand.”

Ending the call, Vivienne sighed deeply, releasing the tension.

“What do you propose we do?” Sienna, seated like a general preparing for battle, had eyes alight with resolve.

Vivienne responded with a light laugh, “Let’s put those social media profiles you’ve been managing to good use.”

Sienna’s brow creased, surprise and concern evident. “You’re not suggesting we escalate this, are you?”

Vivienne, nodding while gently stirring her coffee, spoke with a calm certainty. “The Mitchell family orchestrated this. They’re trying to smear my name and distract the public.”

“What’s the plan then?” Sienna’s interest was piqued, her eyebrow raised in anticipation. She had long recognized Vivienne’s crafty nature hidden beneath her reliable facade. Vivienne, always seen as the ideal student and the perfect daughter, rarely faced repercussions for her few missteps. No matter what mistakes she made, as long as they weren’t too severe, forgiveness and understanding always seemed to follow her.

“If the Mitchell family wants to play games, I’m more than happy to join in,” Vivienne remarked casually. She turned to Sienna, her crimson lips curving into a sly grin. “The Mitchell family clings to their reputation and influence—both of which I painstakingly built for them over time. If I gave it to them, I can just as easily take it away, one by one, and eventually leave them with nothing.”

“Wouldn’t it be simpler to just push them into bankruptcy?” Sienna asked, her voice laced with impatience. “Why go through all this trouble?”

Vivienne’s head tilted slightly as she let out a soft laugh. “Losing everything you’ve worked for is far more agonizing than never having it at all,” she explained, her voice calm but cutting. “I want them to bask in the spotlight, only to crash into obscurity. Let them feel the despair of holding something precious and watching it slip through their fingers while they stand helpless.”

Her words carried a cold detachment, sending an unsettling chill through the air.