Chapter 313

Vivian's pulse raced as panic gripped her. "Are they declaring war? Am I about to die?"

Nathaniel chuckled, ruffling her hair with an apologetic grin. "Just the Blackwoods' dramatic way of welcoming guests. I did try to warn you."

She shot him a glare. "Not hard enough."

Taking a deep breath, Vivian finally exhaled her tension. "I nearly had a heart attack! For a second there, I thought they were assassins!"

"Relax, you're our honored guest." Nathaniel winked playfully before grabbing her hand. "Remember, we're selling this act. Grandpa will spot any fakeness immediately."

Vivian squeezed his fingers and nodded. "Don't worry, I've got this."

Hand in hand, they approached the military formation.

At the center stood an elderly officer dripping with medals, flanked by a distinguished couple as they emerged from an armored vehicle.

"Grandfather! Father! Mother!" Nathaniel's voice cracked with emotion as he waved enthusiastically. After so long away, the sight of family overwhelmed him. He released Vivian's hand, arms outstretched for an embrace.

Instead, Frederick Blackwood shoved him aside with a sharp smack. "Out of the way, boy!"

The patriarch immediately turned his attention to Vivian, beaming. "You must be Isabella! Arthur Lockhart's granddaughter?"

Caught off guard by the intensity, Vivian nodded stiffly. "Yes, that's me."

Frederick's eyes grew misty. "I've waited twenty years for this moment. Arthur saved my life, but my foolish pride destroyed our friendship. I never got to see him one last time."

"You have his eyes," Frederick observed warmly. "And that same regal bearing - a natural leader."

William Blackwood and Eleanor Kingsley exchanged approving glances. "Miss Lockhart, you're absolutely breathtaking," Eleanor gushed, patting Vivian's hand. "What a treasure the Hunts let slip away!"

"Hardly surprising," William added with amusement. "Your mother was Newport City's most sought-after beauty in her day. You've clearly inherited her charms."

Overwhelmed by their fervor, Vivian could only offer a strained smile, shooting Nathaniel a desperate look.

Taking the hint, Nathaniel immediately pulled her behind him. "Easy everyone - you're terrifying my girlfriend!"

Frederick chuckled. "No need for nerves, dear. You're the future lady of Blackwood Manor." His eyes twinkled. "To show our sincerity, we've prepared a very special gift..."