Chapter 34

Ethan's brow furrowed as he snatched up the ringing phone, his expression darkening.

"Mr. Blackwood, the notorious hacker Julian Blackthorn has arrived at Blackwood Group headquarters. He claims he can uncover Scarlet Phoenix's identity—and insists on speaking with you immediately."

A slow smirk curled Ethan's lips.

"So… the man who humiliated Blackwood Group is finally going to be exposed?" His voice dripped with cold amusement. "Fascinating."

"Tell him to wait. I'm on my way." He ended the call, adjusting his cuffs with sharp, deliberate movements. The warmth that had lingered in his gaze moments before vanished, replaced by icy calculation.

Vivian had been close enough to overhear every word.

She'd wanted to meet Julian Blackthorn for months—now that the chance had fallen into her lap, she wasn't about to let it slip away.

"Leaving so soon, Mr. Blackwood?" Her voice was soft, but her eyes gleamed with hidden intent.

"Business at headquarters."

"I'll come with you."

Ethan turned sharply, studying her with narrowed eyes. "What are you plotting now?"

He didn't trust that innocent look on her face. Not when he knew how quickly she could flip from sweet to scheming.

"Plotting?" Vivian laughed, tilting her head. "You're the untouchable CEO of Blackwood Group. Why would I dare cross you?"

Ethan's expression remained unreadable. He knew she was lying—but he was curious how far she'd take this act.

Vivian slid off the bed, draping a shawl over her shoulders. "I thought about your offer last night. I'll keep playing the dutiful wife."

"Really?" Surprise flickered in his eyes.

She held up a hand before he could respond. "Don't thank me. This isn't for you—or the Blackwoods. It's for Alfred."

That much was true. She'd repaid the family's kindness tenfold. But Alfred Blackwood was different. He'd been more of a grandfather to her than her own blood. She wouldn't let his health suffer because of their failed marriage.

Ethan didn't press further. "I'll wait outside," he said flatly before leaving.

The moment the door closed, Vivian yanked open her closet. She slipped into a sleek sheath dress, pausing at the mirror. Her hand drifted to her stomach.

Was it just her, or had it grown slightly?

Time's running out. I need to move faster.

The Rolls-Royce pulled up to Blackwood Group's towering headquarters. Employees whispered excitedly as Vivian stepped out, her arm linked with Ethan's.

"Oh my god, they're back together!"

"That mistress never stood a chance. He's always loved her!"

Ethan Young approached, eyebrows raised at their display. But with urgent matters at hand, he didn't question it.

"Mr. Blackwood, Julian is in the tech department. Arrogant bastard said he'd only talk to you—and won't wait long."

Ethan's jaw tightened. Without a word, he strode toward the elevator. Vivian followed.

"Mrs. Blackwood, perhaps you'd prefer the new patisserie downstairs?" Ethan Young suggested delicately.

The meeting involved classified intel—and he doubted she'd understand any of it.

"She stays." Ethan didn't glance back, clearly sharing the same assumption.

The private elevator ascended to the 16th floor.

"Ten. Nine. Eight..."

A lazy, mocking countdown echoed from the tech department.

"Three seconds left. If the great CEO doesn't show, I'm gone."