Chapter 230

Vivian's cheeks burned crimson as she deliberately avoided Ethan's piercing gaze. Her mind went completely blank, tongue-tied under his intense scrutiny.

A smug satisfaction surged through Ethan. "Your silence speaks volumes," he taunted, tightening his grip on her waist. "You still have feelings for me, don't you? You can't let go."

Vivian stumbled over her own feet, her nervous missteps making Ethan wince in pain.

Coward! She mentally berated herself. Gathering her courage, she met his gaze head-on. "Mr. Blackwood, your arrogance is astounding. I never loved you in the first place - how could I possibly need to move on?"

"Still putting up that tough act," Ethan murmured, his breath hot against her ear. "We both know the truth."

Vivian's face flamed hotter as the music abruptly ended. Like flipping a switch, Ethan's expression turned cold and detached. He released her instantly, the intimate moment shattered as if it never happened.

Her heart sank when Ethan immediately sought out Cassandra Whitmore. "Care for a drink?" he asked the blonde, his voice dripping with charm.

Cassandra had been distracted throughout her dance with Julian Montgomery, her attention fixated on Ethan and Vivian. Though Julian was handsome, her obsession with Ethan ran deeper - it had been love at first sight.

"Of course," Cassandra gushed, practically glowing with excitement as they walked past Vivian without a second glance.

The dismissal cut deeper than any blade. Vivian's chest constricted painfully. That man was pure poison!

Julian shrugged helplessly. "I tried," he offered apologetically.

Returning to their table, Liam took one look at Vivian's devastated expression and scowled. "Boss, what did that bastard say to you? You look like you've seen a ghost."

Vivian downed her fruit wine in one swallow. "Nothing unexpected from him," she muttered bitterly, though her trembling hands betrayed her.

Liam's fists clenched. Knowing Vivian carried Ethan's children made the situation even more infuriating. "Tell me what he said. I'll make him regret it."

"Go ahead," Vivian challenged darkly. "Just make sure you finish the job."

She meant it as a joke - Liam might look reckless, but he was far more calculating than he appeared.

To her shock, Liam grabbed a wine bottle and stormed toward Ethan's table with murder in his eyes.