Chapter 31

Vivian spun around, her gaze locking onto the hand gripping her wrist. Her expression remained unreadable. "Or what?" she challenged, voice steady. "Planning to retaliate, Mr. Blackwood?"

Nathaniel's silence was heavy, his piercing stare holding a storm of unspoken words.

She took a bold step forward, closing the distance between them until their breaths mingled. A mocking smile curled her lips. "The great Nathaniel Blackwood, known for his vindictiveness. Why pretend? If you're angry, just hit back."

He didn’t move. Instead, his sharp glance at the surrounding staff sent them scattering.

Within moments, the upscale restaurant was empty except for them.

Nathaniel released her, exhaling slowly. "I never intended to use you. The love I claimed might have been a lie, but my regret is real."

The chandelier's glow highlighted his striking features, making him look almost otherworldly. So close, yet untouchable.

"Are you... apologizing?" Vivian blinked, stunned. The proud, arrogant Nathaniel Blackwood lowering himself to say sorry? Unthinkable.

"You misheard." He cleared his throat, discomfort flashing across his face before his usual icy mask slid back into place. "But since we're here—your little stunt with the livestream severely damaged Blackwood Group. You’re responsible for fixing it."

"I already played along with your act tonight!" she snapped. "What more do you want?"

She could’ve ruined him. Demanded a fortune. But despite everything, the love she once had for him still lingered, holding her back.

"The public loves us together," Nathaniel stated, as if it were fact. "Even after the divorce, we’ll need to maintain appearances." His tone turned commanding. "You’re still legally my wife. Stay away from Julian Montgomery. Use the Blackwood name freely. Spend whatever you want. And if anyone gives you trouble, call me."

Vivian gaped. Did he just—?

"Mr. Blackwood," she hissed, "have you forgotten? Our divorce is nearly final. You have zero say in my life. You’re not my keeper. You’re certainly not God."

Her nails dug into her palms. "Your mistress is carrying your child, yet here you are, still using your ex-wife to protect your precious image. Disgusting. And rescue me? You ignored me for years! Your empty promises make me sick."

For the first time, fury burned so hot she couldn’t stand being near him.

"Grandfather’s heart surgery is in two days," Nathaniel said quietly, watching her. "The doctors warned against stress."

Vivian stiffened.

Alfred Blackwood had been the only one in that family who treated her with kindness. If their divorce hurt him...

Nathaniel’s voice softened, seeing her hesitation. "Just think about it. If you agree, I’ll pick you up tomorrow. Where are you staying now? Send me the address."

Her jaw clenched. Since when did Nathaniel Blackwood act like some persistent rogue?

"None of your business!" She turned on her heel and stormed out.

That night, sleep eluded her. His face, his words, the memory of his lips on hers—it all churned inside her like a tempest.

Damn it, Vivian Lockhart. Wake up! He’s hurt you enough. Stop letting him under your skin.

She finally drifted off, only to be jolted awake by her phone at dawn.

"Viv! Are you okay? Did that bastard do something to you? Should we call the police?" Sophia’s frantic voice crackled through the line.

"What? Why?" Vivian rubbed her eyes, groggy.

"Have you seen the news? They caught everything on camera!" Sophia’s outrage was palpable. "Tell me you didn’t sleep with him. Please say you didn’t!"