Chapter 220: I Love Everything About You

On the other end, Owen grasped the complex nature of dealing with difficult individuals. “Forgive me,” he said quickly after Vivienne’s pointed remarks, recognizing his mistake. “While I might decline requests from others, refusing you, dear Vivienne, is something I cannot do. As the esteemed heiress of the Sinclair family, you giving me a chance to help you is both my privilege and my greatest pleasure.”

Vivienne sighed upon hearing his words. “You’re a smart man. There might just be hope for you yet.”

Owen was momentarily lost for words. He had a nagging feeling that Vivienne was manipulating him. “This stays between us, as always,” Vivienne said.

“Absolutely!” Owen affirmed, thumping his chest. “But remember, should you ever face real harm or unfair treatment, I cannot simply watch.”

A playful spark appeared in Vivienne’s eyes. “Given my knack for holding grudges, who would dare to cross me?”

With the conversation over, Vivienne resumed her meal. Looking up, she was met by Derek’s amused glance, causing her eyelashes to flutter in surprise. “What has caught your eye now?”

“It’s like I’m discovering you again,” Derek said as he stood, offering her a peeled shrimp.

Color rose in Vivienne’s cheeks. “Do you find me unreasonable?”

“Is that what you think?” Derek responded with a tender smile. “I cherish you, every part. Whether it’s your strengths or flaws, I love them all.”

His heartfelt words sent a thrill through Vivienne, making her heart race. Bowing her head to conceal her flushed face, she continued quietly with her risotto.

“Do you need my assistance with anything?” Derek inquired gently.

Vivienne shook her head, resolute. “I’ve got this under control.”

“Allow me to be upfront,” Derek said, delicately wiping his hands with a napkin. “Should any harm or injustice befall you, I will not hesitate to remove the Mitchell family from Lyhaton.”

His laid-back delivery belied a strong sense of fierce determination and authority. Vivienne raised her eyes to meet his. His deep, intense gaze seemed to plunge into an abyss filled with secrets, sending a shiver through her. The intensity of their eye contact almost felt coercive, overwhelming her defenses.

Owen’s cautionary words unexpectedly resurfaced in her thoughts. “Only whispers reach me. They say he hails from a sovereign land—a place beyond our reach, independent of any nation. Some refer to it as the Independent Continent. Vivienne, keep your distance from him. He’s dangerous territory…”

Yet, despite the warnings, how could Vivienne ignore the growing affection for someone who showered her with such care and attention? Her gaze lingered on Derek’s strikingly attractive features.

Spontaneously, she asked, “Derek, would you consider yourself a good man?”

A brief shadow passed through Derek’s eyes at her question. “It depends on your perspective of right and wrong.” He placed his cup down, locking eyes with Vivienne, a hint of threat playing across his features. “Is a good man considered evil after a single mistake, or is a bad man redeemed by one good act? What really makes someone good or bad?” His voice was smooth yet charged with a seductive danger.