Chapter 385

The storms of life had left Vivian Lockhart battered and scarred. There was no returning to those innocent days of carefree youth.

"Viv, you and Aunt Margaret were absolutely radiant in this photo. Your beauty was otherworldly, like your genes were engineered differently," Emily Reynolds remarked as she entered the room, studying the family portrait with admiration.

"Don't be ridiculous. You're stunning too. The Reynolds bloodline never disappoints," Vivian countered, gently cupping Emily's still-youthful face.

Though Emily's features weren't conventionally striking, they possessed a soft, approachable charm that would captivate audiences - perfect for the entertainment industry she dreamed of joining.

"Guess what? I've got a little secret," Emily giggled, pulling out her phone. "I'm actually an influencer with over two million followers! My TikTok handle is SweetPea. Check it out!"

Vivian's eyebrows shot up seeing the verified account with 2.2 million followers. "Impressive! But remember, Stanford University should still be your priority. That acceptance letter from Mr. Blackwood is an opportunity you can't waste."

"I know," Emily nodded earnestly. "I'll make you both proud, I promise." Then hesitantly added, "Viv...are you okay? After everything with Mr. Blackwood?"

Vivian blinked in confusion. "Why wouldn't I be?"

"Well...you were crazy about him before. Now you're back after four years and he won't even have dinner with you. That's got to sting."

Vivian shrugged. "That was then. Honestly, I can barely remember his face anymore. It doesn't matter to me now."

Emily's eyes sparkled with mischief. "In that case...I've got an idea." She whispered her plan into Vivian's ear.

Vivian's expression turned skeptical. "Are you serious?"

"Dead serious!" Emily clasped her hands dramatically. "Please Viv, just this once? If this works, I'll owe you forever!"

"...Fine," Vivian conceded reluctantly.

Meanwhile at Blackwood Group headquarters...

Employees were buzzing over the viral video of Vivian's return. Phones pinged across departments as whispers spread.

"Oh my God! Is that Mrs. Blackwood? She's back!"

"She looks incredible! That exit was legendary!"

"Do you think there's still hope for them? The Blackwood ship might sail again!"

Ethan Young, Nathaniel Blackwood's assistant, was among the most excited. He burst into the CEO's office waving his phone. "Sir! You need to see what's trending on Twitter right now!"