Chapter 104

Ethan's Adam's apple bobbed slightly.

A sharp pang shot through his chest, as if pierced by countless tiny needles.

Vivian's gaze was icy cold, looking at him like a complete stranger. This sudden distance made him inexplicably agitated.

"Does Mr. Roscente agree?" Vivian's voice held no warmth.

"Fine."

"Then let's race."

Vivian's fingers tapped lightly against the steering wheel. As the legendary racer W, she'd never lost before. This time would be no exception.

She would never save Sophia Evans.

"Let go." Her eyes dropped to Ethan's hand gripping her wrist.

Ethan released his hold. Vivian turned and walked deeper into the parking garage, her red racing suit blazing under the fluorescent lights.

Ethan chose a black sports car.

In the dim corner of the locker room, a heavily cloaked woman emerged. She crept toward Vivian's red race car and quickly tampered with it.

...

Isabella pushed open the locker room door.

"Viv, are you really going through with this bet?"

"Yes."

"What's at stake?"

After hearing Vivian's brief explanation, Isabella stomped her foot in outrage.

"This is outrageous! I should tell Ethan you're his ex-wife! Forcing his ex to save his first love? What kind of monster does that?"

Vivian stopped her with a hand. "Don't. I won't lose."

"After you win, we'll tell him. Let him regret this forever!"

"Mm." Vivian fastened her seatbelt.

"I'll be cheering from the stands. Even professional racers can't beat you - what chance does Ethan have?"

Vivian adjusted her gloves. "Don't underestimate him. In our past encounters, his skills rivaled professionals."

This race, she must win.

"I believe in you!"

"I will win." Vivian flashed a confident smile.

At the locker room entrance, the two crossed paths again.

Ethan paused, his dark eyes studying Vivian intently.

She walked past him without a glance.

Isabella glared daggers at him. "Jerk!"

Ethan frowned.

What had he done to deserve that?

The red racing suit accentuated Vivian's slender frame. Her determined stride carried a hint of melancholy.

Ethan suddenly realized - that silhouette resembled his ex-wife's.

At the gala days ago, the woman in the evening gown had carried herself with the same poised grace.