Chapter 221: We Are Destined For Each Other

A subtle smile played on Vivienne’s lips, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “I suppose it’s just as well I’m not known for being decent either, and I’m certainly not fond of those who are deemed good.”

Derek’s expression shifted from shadowed to intrigued. “What do you mean by that?” he asked, his smile broadening as he regarded her affectionately.

Vivienne placed her fork down, gracefully picked up a napkin, and dabbed at her lips. She folded the napkin neatly and set it aside, every gesture reflecting her natural poise. Gazing at Derek with a resolute sparkle in her eyes, she said, “We are destined for each other.”

Long before Derek could propose marriage, or even before she fully grasped his complexities, Vivienne had opportunities to leave without consequences. She had thought that learning Derek’s secrets might drive her away. Yet now, as she faced him, logic urged her to retreat, but her heart suggested she could gamble everything for this man who cherished her. She recalled their first encounter where Derek had assured her that she was worthy of love. Throughout their time together, his deeds had consistently affirmed his words. If Derek could approach her so freely, why shouldn’t she take a decisive step toward him?

As Vivienne voiced her emotions, a whirlwind of thoughts engulfed Derek, leaving his mind reeling. He sat motionless, his dark eyes shimmering with an array of emotions that were difficult to pinpoint.

“Could you drive me back to the office?” Vivienne asked, studying Derek’s inscrutable face.

“Certainly.”

At his agreement, Vivienne rose and walked to the door. However, just as her hand reached for the knob, he grasped her arm and drew her into a tight embrace, as though trying to fuse her into his very essence.

“Promise me you’ll never leave me.” His voice, deep and resonant, vibrated against her ear as he nestled his head in the crook of her neck, lips grazing her temple. “I’ll make sure you have no reason to leave.”

From their very first encounter, he was convinced Vivienne was meant to play a pivotal role in his life. She was the unforeseen twist he couldn’t dominate, the woman he resolved to claim.

A brilliant smile spread across Vivienne’s face as she raised her eyes to his. “Well, looks like you’re stuck with me forever.”

Exiting the secluded room, Vivienne was acutely aware of the murmurs and covert conversations that filled the air around them. She suspected Owen had recirculated the news.

Meanwhile, Diana had been unsettled when the original post vanished, suspecting hidden support for Vivienne. Now, with the post restored, she felt her earlier concerns were overblown, having overestimated her opponent. Yet, her relief was short-lived. Without warning, the door to her bedroom was forcefully kicked open.

Before Diana could gather her wits, Warren barged in, seized her by the collar, and hoisted her up from her seat. His intense eyes quickly scanned the laptop screen before fixing on her, his tone cold. “It was you, wasn’t it?”

Diana’s heart raced, her eyes darting nervously. “What are you accusing me of? I don’t follow.”

In her panic, she attempted to shut down her laptop but fumbled, reacting too slowly.