Chapter 161

Ethan Roscente twisted open the bottle cap and offered the water to Vivian Laurent.

She didn't take it. Her icy gaze spoke volumes.

Her eyes were filled with unmistakable rejection.

He understood—they were square. There was no reason for him to intrude.

"The Roscente Group guaranteed this project. I'm just checking the progress." He withdrew his hand. "Need emergency funds? I can transfer ten billion immediately."

"No."

Her tone was firm. Though the project's rework demanded massive capital, and her liquidity was tight...

She'd rather drain her personal savings and other business reserves than accept his help.

"Consider it a loan." Ethan persisted. "Lucas lacks experience. I brought a professional team to assist."

"Thanks, but no." Vivian cut him off. "I don't want to owe you."

Ethan fell silent.

Studying her stubborn profile, he realized he'd never truly known her.

Discovering his ex-wife was the legendary Vivian had sparked a secret thrill in him.

This was who she was meant to be—shining in her own world, not confined as Mrs. Roscente.

"Vivian, I—"

Simon Eisner hurried over. "Mr. Roscente, you have a visitor."

Vincent Valrose's obsequious voice rang out. "An honor to finally meet the great Ethan Roscente!"

He ignored his daughter entirely, rushing toward Ethan.

Ethan's expression darkened. He'd investigated how the Valrose family had treated Vivian.

"Throw him out." The order was curt.

Vincent paled, nearly dropping to his knees. "Have mercy, Mr. Roscente! Please spare Valrose Realty!"

Vivian burst out laughing. "Ethan, since when did you start herding livestock?"

Ethan: "..."