Chapter 23
"Trust me," Vivienne said, "as a relative of one of the world's most distinguished lawyers, I would never act against the law. Therefore, Attorney Sinclair, your efforts here are unnecessary." She knew Harvey detested seeing her mistreated by the Mitchell family and was eager to defend her. However, using such extreme measures for minor conflicts wasn't her style. If she truly wanted revenge, she wouldn't need Harvey's help.
Harvey affectionately pinched her cheek, noting the loss of its former plumpness and warmth. His eyebrows knitted together; a softness filled his eyes. "You ungrateful little thing, do you know who I'm doing all this for?"
His older brother, Cameron, had called earlier, telling him about Vivienne's selfless dedication to the Mitchell family and Warren's ultimate desertion—a betrayal that stung deeper than any lawsuit defeat.
"Uncle Harvey," Vivienne said, resting against his shoulder, "I've decided. I'm not planning to marry. I'm going to stay with my family, and I won't go anywhere."
Her encounter with Warren had been enlightening; she vowed never again to tolerate indifference or abandon those truly kind to her.
Gently stroking her hair, Harvey reassured her, "You don't have to get married if you don't want to. Our family's wealth is stable enough; we don't need marriages to maintain it."
Their conversation ended abruptly due to Harvey's work commitments. As he prepared to leave, he reminded her, "Remember, there's a board meeting next Monday."
"Alright," Vivienne nodded.
Once Harvey was gone, Vivienne glanced at the clock, realizing it was almost time for her meeting with Derek. She refreshed herself with a quick shower and slipped into a fresh dress. Just as she finished dressing, there was a knock on the door.
Opening it to find Milo instead of Derek, Vivienne felt a pang of disappointment, which she masked with a courteous smile. "Thank you, Milo."
"You're welcome, Miss Hayes," Milo replied.
Noticing her slight dismay, Milo explained, "Mr. Hopkins had to attend to an urgent matter and asked me to escort you instead." Milo, having observed Derek's enthusiasm toward Vivienne, now treated her with greater care and respect, almost as if she were his superior.
With a gentle smile, Vivienne said, "I appreciate you sharing this with me."
As they settled into the car, Milo explained, "Mrs. Hopkins left the hospital three days ago. We're on our way to her home now."
"Alright," Vivienne responded.
Their car cruised along, eventually stopping before a standalone villa. The vibrant greenery surrounding it painted a peaceful scene, inviting one to enjoy the calm, far from the world's chaos. The residence showcased orderly layers that exuded elegance and a majestic aura. A pond lay in the central courtyard, its waters meandering through the flora like a crescent moon cradling the structure. Lively fish darted beneath the lotus leaves. Margot's quarters, positioned on the eastern section near fragrant blooms, were caressed by a soft floral breeze.
As the maids moved with precision, Milo stepped forward and said, "Ma'am, Miss Hayes has arrived."
"Bring her in quickly!" Margot exclaimed enthusiastically.
Upon entering, Vivienne said, "I hope my visit isn't an inconvenience."
"What are you talking about?" Margot exclaimed joyfully, grasping Vivienne's hand to guide her to a couch. "I'm so happy you came to see me." Observing Vivienne's delicate features, she noticed her improved, though still slender, appearance. "How are you feeling these days?"
Vivienne responded gratefully, "I'm recovering well, thank you. And how have you been? I wasn't aware you had been discharged."
"Just a minor recurrence of an old problem," Margot reassured her, her fondness for Vivienne evident as she added, "Derek mentioned your recent illness was somehow related to him."