Chapter 65: Show Your Gratitude In Another Way

While Natalie despaired, Vivienne perused social media updates over coffee. Just five minutes earlier, Natalie had apologized to her fans from her hospital room, vowing amends and Vivienne's forgiveness. On camera, her glistening tears on her pale face elicited audience empathy, though they were a strategic ploy for pity. Ultimately, her actions had backfired.

"Miss Hayes, I've brought the documents for the upcoming bidding event," Scarlett said, placing them on Vivienne's desk.

Vivienne nodded. "The PR team has excelled this time."

Scarlett hesitated. "Actually, it wasn't our team. I assumed you'd assigned it elsewhere."

Vivienne looked puzzled. "Oh, I see. Thank you. You may return to your tasks."

"Sure." Pausing as she turned to leave, Scarlett added, "Earlier, Mitchell Group's CEO requested a meeting. I told him you were unavailable."

Vivienne's face hardened. "From now on, deny any meetings with Mitchell Group without notifying me."

"Understood," Scarlett replied, exiting.

Later, Vivienne arrived at Lonsong Restaurant. She entered the private room where Derek already sat, speaking on his phone. He wore a black shirt, sleeves rolled up to reveal strong forearms. Under the neon lights, his sharp features held an almost magical allure. Dark eyebrows, a prominent nose, and thin lips conveyed a distant coolness. He turned at her approach, his expression softening as he saw her, a flicker of warmth in his eyes.

Ending his call, he pulled out a chair. "Sorry I kept you waiting. I wish I could have greeted you at the door."

"I'm not fussy," Vivienne replied, seating herself.

As Derek sat opposite, his expression was serious. "Greeting you at the door is important—it shows my respect and how much I value our time."

Vivienne raised an eyebrow. "Aren't you exaggerating?"

"Sometimes, small things make moments memorable," Derek responded.

Their eyes met. Vivienne noticed a gentle sincerity in his gaze. "Maybe you have a point."

Derek smiled faintly. Then, she saw him slicing his meal, his movements tinged with irritation. Puzzled by his shift in mood, she lifted her glass. "Thanks for your help today."

"Is a simple thank you enough? Perhaps you could show your gratitude in another way," Derek replied, his eyes lingering on her lips.