Chapter 298: Feeling Suddenly Invisible
While Vivienne enjoyed seeking revenge, her position as CEO of Sinclair Group often required more restraint. “Those slaps you dealt out were quite satisfying to witness, Vivienne. It was quite the spectacle,” Sienna said, pausing as she pondered the repercussions. “However, I’m concerned that the Mitchell and Chambers families might retaliate, particularly the Mitchells…” Sienna had never cared for people like Everett, who always preached virtue and morality, hiding his manipulative actions behind a mask of kindness.
Unperturbed, Vivienne responded with cool detachment, “To me, the Mitchell family is irrelevant.” She had once devoted herself wholeheartedly to the Mitchells, mistakenly believing Warren was the person who saved her years ago. For Warren’s sake, she had endured the Mitchells’ presence as long as she could bear, but those days were over. She had lost all patience with Warren and was done putting up with the Mitchells’ games.
Sienna, hearing this, felt a sense of relief. “Though we didn’t buy a dress, sorting out those two nuisances still made our trip worthwhile.”
While they were talking, Milo, clad in a sharp suit, walked up to them. He paused respectfully before them and said, “Miss Hayes, Miss Holt.” Sienna turned to Milo, puzzled. “Have we met before?” She couldn’t recall ever meeting the man standing before her. Milo responded, “I’m familiar with you through Miss Hayes.” This indicated he knew her because of his connection to Vivienne.
Vivienne quirked an eyebrow. “What brings you here?” “I was sent by Mr. Hopkins to pick you up,” Milo explained. He stepped aside as a sleek black Rolls-Royce Phantom came into view. The car door swung open, and a man emerged, his long legs and regal posture marking his approach. Standing before them, his well-defined features and dignified aura resembled a sculpted figure, radiating a noble charm. His silent presence alone was enough to capture everyone’s attention and respect.
Sienna, observing him, couldn’t help but think that he completely overshadowed Warren, who paled in comparison. As Vivienne approached Derek with a radiant smile, her eyes shimmered softly. Before she had a chance to speak, Derek drew her close, his arm encircling her waist. “Does your hand hurt?” His voice was both deep and soothing. Vivienne shook her head, dismissing any concern. “Hurt? No, not at all.”
“Every action has its consequences; you slapped her, so surely your hand must have hurt? You’re just accustomed to bearing everything alone,” Derek said, as he gently rubbed her hand. “Now, you don’t have to be so strong; I’m here.” A wave of emotions washed over Vivienne. Derek had a knack for reaching her most sensitive emotions with ease.
Vivienne bit her lip, striving to keep her voice even. “What brings you here so soon? Weren’t you supposed to return next week?” She had resigned herself to a few more days without him. “Don’t you want to see me?” Derek asked, raising an eyebrow playfully, his eyes twinkling with warmth and amusement. “I wish you were always with me,” Vivienne responded. As she spoke, Derek’s gaze darkened, swirling with mystery and intensity like the deep night sea.
Observing him closely, Vivienne noticed the redness in his eyes and the subtle shadows beneath them, signs of fatigue. With a gentle touch to his face, she expressed her concern. “You look so tired.” Derek caught her hand, pressing it to his cheek, savoring the warmth, his throat moving slightly as he admitted, “A little.” “Let’s head home,” Vivienne suggested, taking his hand and leading him toward the car.
Sienna watched them leave, feeling suddenly invisible. Was she truly unnoticed? With Vivienne now focused on her boyfriend, had she been forgotten by her best friend?