Chapter 261

"Four years of marriage! How could she mean nothing to me?" Ethan's voice cut through the tension like a blade.

Vivian stood frozen behind him, emotions churning in her chest.

Never had she imagined Ethan would defend her so publicly. Nor had she expected those particular words to leave his lips.

'Isn't he supposed to be the one who despises me most? The man who couldn't wait to erase our marriage? Why is he acting like he cares?'

Dominic stepped forward. "Nathaniel's right. There's zero evidence implicating Miss Lockhart in Olivia's fall. No one lays a finger on her until we have proof."

"Split up and search the area. We need to find Olivia immediately!"

The crowd dispersed, voices calling Olivia's name as they fanned out across the shoreline.

Ethan joined the search, his movements frantic. Vivian trailed behind, torn between gratitude and confusion.

She wanted to thank him for that unexpected defense. But his entire being radiated panic as he scanned the crashing waves.

'Of course. Olivia Sinclair always held a special place in his heart. Even if he didn't run away with her, he never stopped caring.'

"Ethan—" Vivian quickened her pace to match his long strides.

He barely glanced at her, laser-focused on the turbulent waters. "What?"

That dismissive tone made her cheeks burn. "I... just wanted to thank you. For standing up for me back there."

"Don't." His eyes never left the ocean. "But if I discover you harmed her, I'll handle you myself."

Her stomach plunged like a stone.

'Stupid. Mistaking basic decency for lingering affection.'

'Wake up, Vivian. Ethan Blackwood never loved you. If he had, he wouldn't have brought his mistress home and forced that divorce.'

Suddenly Ethan surged forward like a torpedo, swimming with terrifying determination toward the deadly riptide.

"Over there! I see her!" someone screamed.

Vivian's gaze snapped to a distant shape bobbing in the waves.

Olivia. Drifting further into the deadly deep with every passing second.

Ethan powered through the churning water, closing the distance despite the obvious danger.

The onlookers held their breath. One wrong move and the sea would claim them both.

"Come back!" Vivian's scream tore from her throat. "Ethan Blackwood, turn around now! Are you trying to die?"