The Dinner and the ScrutinyThe air in Vivian’s small cottage was thick with tension, scented not with jasmine, but with rosemary, garlic, and the faint, expensive cologne of high anxiety.Vivian, despite her objections, was wearing a sleek, tailored dress—a loaner from Elias's assistant, chosen specifically to look "effortlessly chic, yet coastal." The massive diamond on her finger felt less like a piece of jewelry and more like a tactical weapon.At 7:00 PM precisely, a black limousine—a vehicle so long it nearly blocked the entire lane—pulled up outside."He's here," Vivian whispered, her hands clammy.Elias, who looked impossibly commanding in a dark suit, took a moment to smooth his tie and then turned to her. He placed his hands on her shoulders, his gaze intense and focusing."Remember the rules," he said, his voice low. "Affectionate proximity, joint decisions, and unwavering defense of Leo. If he suggests anything scandalous, you look at me like I'm your rock. I'm doing this
Last Updated : 2025-11-25 Read more