Chapter 242: Treading a Similar Path

Clive Hayes had quickly learned the importance of cultivating relationships since his promotion. The Mitchell family, Lyhaton's rising stars, naturally piqued his interest. Thus, when Warren reached out, Clive readily agreed to a meeting. The nature of Warren's inquiry surprised him little.

As he placed his wine glass on the table, a thoughtful expression crossed Clive's face as he studied Warren. "Mr. Mitchell," he began, "having risen to prominence among Lyhaton's elite, did it ever occur to you that you might have inadvertently antagonized someone formidable?"

An evident tension gripped Warren; his grip on his glass tightened. He averted his gaze, concealing his anxiety. Clive's statement unnervingly echoed a past incident. Memories of the Chambers family's troubles surfaced for Warren, along with Kason's warning to Natalie: "I'm here to deliver a warning from those in charge. Don't provoke those you shouldn't."

Reflecting on Clive's statement sent shivers down Warren's spine. Was it possible the Mitchell family was treading a similar path to the Chambers family so soon? Images of Vivienne, her expression cold yet captivating, flashed before him. Could she be the instigator? He dismissed the thought. Vivienne might have influence, but she couldn't single-handedly manipulate those in power.

Yet, upon reflection, Warren couldn't recall any recent conflicts involving the Mitchells, other than those with Vivienne. If not Vivienne, then who?

"Mr. Hayes," Warren said, "the higher we climb, the more scrutiny we face. The Mitchell family have always strived for positive relationships. I'm at a loss as to whom we might have offended. Could you help identify them? I wish to offer my sincerest apologies." He rose, poured a drink for Clive, and presented it with both hands, a gesture of humility.

The Mitchell family had worked hard to overcome past setbacks and reach their current position. Warren was determined to prevent any recurrence of past difficulties. After a brief moment, Clive accepted the drink. "Mr. Mitchell," he said, "we have a history. Naturally, I'll assist you."

Warren's expression softened slightly, yet unease lingered. The food before him tasted bland. At that moment, Vivienne's phone rang—a call from the Mitchell family.

"Miss Hayes," Harrison said, "these issues require formal processes. Are you available tomorrow?"

As she swirled her wine, a relaxed smile played on Vivienne's lips, accentuating her allure. Her gaze seemed to captivate those around her. Derek watched her intently. Oblivious to his gaze, Vivienne replied lightly, "That was faster than expected."

Harrison, on the other end, worried, hastened to clarify: "Miss Hayes, the amount involved isn't insignificant. These things take time."

Vivienne, uninterested in the details, interjected, "Tomorrow. At three in the afternoon." She hung up and reached for her wine, finding the gourmet meal unappetizing.

Something felt amiss. The satisfaction she expected from manipulating the Mitchell family was absent. Despite her success and excessive demands, she felt strangely undisturbed.