Chapter 28

Vivienne gently set down her fork and said to Margot with a polite smile, “I’m currently staying with my grandfather.” Margot nodded, her expression softening with understanding, though a fleeting glimmer of disappointment crossed her features. She had hoped that by inviting Vivienne to stay, Derek and Vivienne might grow closer. But with Vivienne living with her grandfather, that plan seemed out of reach—for now.

After dinner, Derek took Milo to the study to finish some work. When he returned, the quiet scene in the living room surprised him. Vivienne sat next to Margot, her posture poised yet relaxed. She listened intently, a warm and engaging smile on her face, as Margot spoke. The soft glow from the living room lamp illuminated her features, lending her an almost ethereal presence.

For a moment, Derek stood at the staircase, observing. It was a simple moment, yet it stirred something unfamiliar in him—a sense of warmth, family, and belonging.

“Derek,” Margot called, breaking his reverie. She waved him over with a faint smile. “Now that you’re done with work, why don’t you take Vivienne for a walk? I’m feeling a bit tired and will head to bed.”

He nodded, his gaze shifting to Vivienne, silently asking her agreement. Vivienne rose gracefully, offering Margot a soft smile. “Have a good rest.”

As they walked toward the door, Margot’s smile grew more affectionate, a wistful sigh escaping her lips. “I hope Derek puts in the effort to win her heart,” she murmured.

Standing beside her, Lillian smiled knowingly. “With Mr. Hopkins’ charm and character, I’m sure Miss Hayes won’t be able to resist for long.”

Margot’s brow arched subtly, her lips curving into a meaningful smile. “And where exactly do you think Vivienne falls short?”

She didn’t wait for an answer. Margot’s years of experience told her that Vivienne was no ordinary woman. Every gesture, every word, spoke of an impeccable upbringing and refinement that couldn’t be learned overnight. This wouldn’t be easy for Derek. Winning her heart would take more than charm—it would require sincerity, patience, and perhaps even vulnerability.

Outside, the rain had softened into a gentle drizzle, painting the world in a silvery haze. Vivienne stepped into the cool night air, reaching out to feel the raindrops on her palm. Derek stood a few steps away, one hand in his pocket, his eyes fixed on her with an unreadable expression. A slight smile tugged at his lips. “How about some coffee?” he asked, his tone casual, but his gaze intent.

Vivienne turned, surprised by the unexpected invitation. Their eyes met, and for a brief moment, she forgot how to breathe. Her fingers curled slightly as she exhaled, regaining her composure. A soft smile played on her lips. “Sure,” she said.

The coffee room, tucked away in the west wing, exuded a quiet, old-world charm. An arched antique shelf divided the space. On the table in the outer room, an aromatherapy diffuser released a soothing fragrance, mingling with the rich aroma of coffee beans.

Vivienne’s gaze swept across the room, drawn to a painting in the inner space. She stopped mid-step, her eyes flickering with recognition. It was Spring Breeze, a famous painting she’d once seen in an art catalog. But this wasn’t a replica—this was the original, sold anonymously at one of the world’s most exclusive auctions. Attendance at such an auction required a net worth exceeding two hundred million dollars; anonymous bidding required an even higher level of access and a fortune exceeding a billion.