Chapter 497

"Me?"

Vivian Lockhart frowned, completely baffled by Julian Carter's suggestion.

She was a stranger to Ethan Blackwood and had no ties to the Blackwood family. Why would Julian come to her for help? He must have mistaken her for someone far more charitable than she was.

Julian's expression darkened. "Six months ago, I resigned as Chief R&D Officer at QuantumTech and sold a portion of my shares. The company has new ownership now. The incoming chairman has a technical background, but he’s ruthless in business. He plans to overhaul the entire company—staff, management, partnerships. My influence is gone."

Vivian arched a brow. "Businesses change hands. Even the strongest empires fall. What’s your point?"

"I’m not cut out for corporate warfare. I don’t care what happens to QuantumTech. But Blackwood Group and QuantumTech have always worked seamlessly because of my relationship with Ethan. Their partnership is vital."

"Now that Ethan’s gone, and the new chairman wants to shake things up… I’m worried. The deal could collapse."

He exhaled sharply. "Ethan was the backbone of Blackwood Group. Without him, the company is vulnerable. They’re about to sign a strategic agreement with QuantumTech on the Quantum-6 chip. This deal could redefine the tech industry. If it fails, Blackwood Group is finished."

Vivian scoffed. "And what does that have to do with me? How could I possibly help?"

"You can," Julian insisted, a cryptic smile playing on his lips. "Ethan’s fate is uncertain. Rumors are spreading. Blackwood Group has no leader. And people like Julian Blackwood are waiting to strike. Someone needs to step in—someone who can represent Ethan and secure this deal."

Realization dawned on Vivian. She laughed coldly. "You want me to stabilize the company?"

"Exactly."

"You’re insane. I’m his ex-wife. Do you really think the board would accept me? Or are you just desperate for drama?"

Julian’s expression turned grave. "I’m dead serious. The world knows Ethan would move mountains for you. He even starred in Hunt My Everheart to win you back. If you hold a press conference and announce you’ve reconciled, no one would question your authority to act on his behalf."

"Absolutely not." Vivian cut him off sharply. "Marriage isn’t a game. We’re done. Your plan is absurd."

Julian pressed on. "Gaining public trust is just step one. You need to secure QuantumTech’s confidence. Restructure Blackwood Group. Weed out the traitors."

His voice lowered. "And find out who killed Sebastian and Ethan. Give them justice."

"That’s the police’s job. Not mine."

Vivian stood, done with the conversation.

"You don’t care if he’s dead?" Julian challenged. "You won’t even avenge him?"

She turned, her gaze icy. "No. I don’t. You came to the wrong person."

As she walked away, Julian shook his head in disbelief.

When a woman falls out of love, her heart turns to stone.

Poor Ethan. If only you’d known.

Vivian returned home that night, her mind in turmoil.