Chapter 246: Costing Them Both Reputation and…

Vivienne’s message read, “I’ve got plans with friends tonight. Let’s reschedule.” Derek’s jaw tightened as the message illuminated his phone screen. The conference room’s warmth evaporated instantly, leaving a glacial stillness. The executive’s voice wavered during his presentation; his confidence crumbled as he sensed Derek’s cold aura. Perspiration beaded on his forehead as he stumbled through his words, his limbs betraying his mounting anxiety. Relief washed over him as he concluded, only to falter when he saw Derek remain silent at the head of the table. Desperation drove the executive’s gaze toward Milo, silently pleading for intervention. Milo exhaled softly, acknowledging his crucial role.

“Mr. Hopkins?” he called out cautiously.

Derek tucked away his phone, his attention shifting deliberately. A flash of arctic coldness in his gaze sent an involuntary tremor through Milo. Mastering his apprehension, Milo maintained his composure. “Mr. Hopkins, the marketing department’s report has concluded.”

“Alright,” Derek nodded. He declared, “This meeting is adjourned.”

A collective exhale rippled through the room.

Back in his office, Derek contacted Vivienne. “What time will you finish tonight? I can arrange transportation.”

“That’s thoughtful, but I’ll pass,” Vivienne responded, aware of Sienna’s penchant for extended celebrations. Their revelry would undoubtedly stretch late into the night. “Other matters require my attention. I must go.”

Ending the call, Vivienne surveyed the café. The Mitchell family’s vehicle stood sentinel in the parking lot, their early arrival obvious. A knowing smile touched her lips. So, they’d come early. Clearly, they’d been waiting.

“Hello, Miss Hayes,” Harrison rose, projecting warmth. “The card’s access code is six zeros.”

Vivienne settled into her seat, her gaze evaluating Harrison and Melissa. “The transfer documentation?”

“Right here!” Melissa produced the papers with nervous energy. “Your signature will finalize everything.”

Vivienne examined the documents meticulously before signing. Harrison and Melissa exchanged glances of unmistakable relief.

“Miss Hayes, having fulfilled your terms, might we proceed with the lawsuit’s withdrawal?” Harrison asked cautiously.

Vivienne lifted her gaze, her refined features maintaining professional distance. “Indeed.”

Melissa barely contained her elation, clutching Harrison’s hand while harboring growing antipathy toward Vivienne. Their initial plan to humble her had backfired spectacularly, costing them both reputation and resources. Yet, circumstances forced them to swallow their pride.

Warren, observing from his vehicle, had intended to join Harrison, but Clive’s call had interrupted him.

“Mr. Hayes, what news regarding my inquiry?”

“Mr. Mitchell, investigations reveal the surname Vaughn attached to your company’s scrutiny,” Clive reported.

Warren’s expression darkened. “Vaughn?” The unexpected connection to that family name stirred unease. Composing himself, Warren responded, “Mr. Hayes, I assure you, I’ve maintained distance from the Vaughn family.” Despite his unceremonious removal from Raina Vaughn’s wedding, Warren had chosen discretion over confrontation. The possibility of having somehow provoked their ire puzzled him.

“Mr. Hayes, might there be an error in these findings?” Warren questioned, uncertainty lacing his words.