Chapter 112

Vivian's breath hitched as the words stuck in her throat.

Julian stood too close, his striking resemblance to Nathaniel making her pulse race. The proximity sent an unexpected thrill through her.

His piercing gaze held the same intensity as Nathaniel's, yet where Nathaniel's eyes burned with authority, Julian's carried the weight of untold stories.

A quiet sigh escaped Vivian's lips. Humans truly were creatures of habit.

Four years ago, she'd fallen instantly for Nathaniel. Now history repeated itself with his doppelgänger.

"Lost in thought?" Julian's murmur sent warm breath dancing across her skin. His voice flowed like aged whiskey, rich and intoxicating.

"Nothing important. I should leave." Vivian stepped back too quickly, her balance faltering.

Strong hands caught her waist effortlessly. "I may look like your husband, but I'm not him. Why so nervous?"

"I'm not!" Heat flooded Vivian's cheeks.

Yet his observation struck true. Why should she hesitate?

Other men fled at Nathaniel's name. This one stayed - even flirted. The realization emboldened her.

Vivian's fingers lifted to tilt Julian's chin. "Not nervous, darling. Just concerned you might be."

Surprise flickered in his eyes. "Is that so? Do tell."

"You couldn't handle me," Vivian challenged.

Julian's brows arched. "Rumor paints Mrs. Blackwood as quite the proper lady. Does Nathaniel know this wild side?"

"Why would I tell him? The man's as romantic as a spreadsheet." Vivian rolled her eyes. "All he's good at is killing moods."

Nathaniel belonged in her past. This intriguing man before her? Far more interesting.

Her fingers toyed with his tie. "What's wrong? Scared to play with me?"

Where others might retreat, Julian leaned in. "I'll risk it," he said solemnly.

"Good." Vivian tugged his tie, leading him toward the exit. "This place won't do. Let's find somewhere more... private."

Julian followed willingly, amusement dancing in his eyes.

Nathan Prescott chose that moment to enter the club. His jaw dropped as he witnessed Vivian dragging the stranger toward the elevators.

Shock rooted Nathan to the spot. When he recovered, his phone was already dialing. "Nathaniel? You'll never guess who I just saw."

"Make it quick."

"Your wife's about to check into a hotel with your twin!"

Nathan delivered the final blow: "The bastard looks exactly like you."