Chapter 359: Poor Rating

They arrived at the Four Seasons Hotel. Inside the car, Vivian stared at the hotel, her expression unreadable. She composed herself, stepping out with Jonathan and Cecilia.

Jonathan checked his watch. "It's already time, and he still hasn't arrived! Does he even want to get paid? How unreliable. A poor rating, if I could give one!"

Vivian dismissed his comment. How could a child possibly find her a better companion than Ernest?

"I'm so nervous, Ceci," Vivian admitted, turning to Cecilia.

Cecilia took her hand. "Don't be afraid. I'm here."

For years, Ernest had been the reason Vivian hadn't pursued other men. She'd had suitors, but refused them all. Years ago, upon returning home, she'd searched for Ernest, only to find him already in a relationship. Then, he'd surprisingly sent her a wedding invitation. That was the final blow.

Soothed by Cecilia's presence, Vivian entered the hotel. Outside the banquet hall, she saw the wedding photos: the bride, demure in white, stood beside Ernest.

Cecilia noticed the resemblance. "Huh, she looks like Vivian."

"The bride is stunning," Vivian murmured.

Cecilia offered comfort. "You're even more beautiful, Vivian."

Jonathan added, "That's right, Mommy, you're even more beautiful."

That "Mommy" grounded Vivian. Seeing their concern, her mood lifted.

"You're right. I'm even more beautiful. Let's go inside," she said, holding both Jonathan and Cecilia's hands. "I'll be fine, even without a man."

Among the wedding guests, Ernest spotted Vivian. His composure faltered momentarily before he resumed his usual aloof demeanor. "You're here."

"Mhm," Vivian replied, presenting a gift. "This is my wedding gift."

Ernest's gaze fell on Jonathan. Before he could ask, his parents, Bastian Jaeger and Greta Schneider, approached.

"Vivian, what brings you here?" Greta asked, wary of trouble. She knew how much Vivian cared for her son. "Ernest is engaged. Isn't this pointless?" She accepted the substantial gift without comment.

Vivian responded calmly, "Didn't you know Ernest invited me?"

Greta was speechless. Weighing the gift, she smiled. "Vivian, my husband and I adore you. I've told Ernest, but he's stubborn. If you don't mind, you two can still keep in touch, even after the wedding."

Vivian was stunned. Cecilia stepped protectively in front of her. "Are you suggesting you want to help your son find a mistress?"

Greta was taken aback by Cecilia's anger. "Why put it so crudely? Successful people have close female companions."