Chapter 170

Vincent Valrose hurriedly left the scene without daring to linger for even a second.

He needed to secure funding immediately, or the Valrose Group's losses would be catastrophic.

Before leaving, he plastered on a smile and said to Ethan Roscente, "Mr. Roscente, you must bring Vivian home for dinner sometime."

Vincent knew perfectly well that Ethan and Vivian's relationship was far from simple.

As long as he kept a firm grip on Vivian, the Valrose family's resurgence was guaranteed.

Thinking of Natalie's foolish actions, a cold glint flashed in Vincent's eyes.

He would teach that useless daughter of his a harsh lesson when he got back!

With the unwanted guests gone, Vivian resumed inventorying supplies.

Ethan, however, stayed close behind her.

Vivian abruptly stopped and turned. "Do you need something, Mr. Roscente? Waiting for my gratitude?"

"No thanks needed," Ethan said intently. "Have dinner with me? There are things I want to say."

"I'm busy," Vivian refused bluntly.

"Just a quick meal. It won't take long," Ethan pressed earnestly.

Ever since learning the truth, his heart had been weighed down with guilt toward her.

"Mr. Roscente, persistence doesn't suit you." Vivian turned to leave.

She failed to notice the soft, muddy ground beneath her feet.

The recent heavy rains had left the terrain treacherously slick.

Her foot slipped, sending her tumbling forward.

"Careful!" Ethan seized her wrist and pulled her securely into his arms.

The familiar scent of his cologne enveloped her instantly.

This was the embrace she'd once dreamed of.

Before their marriage, she'd yearned for such a moment.

During their three years together, she'd prayed nightly for his return.

Now, it had come far too late.

Vivian shoved him away. "Thanks."

As she turned to leave, her foot nearly slipped again.

Without hesitation, Ethan swept her up into his arms.

"Put me down!" Vivian struggled in his hold.

Meanwhile, Sophia Evans stared furiously at her tablet screen.

The image of Ethan holding another woman sent daggers through her heart.

He was carrying Vivian like that!

This had to be one of Vivian's schemes.

She had to stop it.

Just then, a three-year-old boy ran up to her. "Mommy!"

Sophia's eyes lit up with inspiration.

Ethan carried Vivian steadily until they reached solid ground before setting her down.

"Ethan Roscente!" Vivian snapped, using his full name.

"Leave professional matters to professionals." Ethan gestured toward a nearby team. "I brought quality inspectors."

Vivian scoffed. "Such sudden generosity. Fine—you get five minutes for today's help."

Without Ethan's presence today, her victory wouldn't have been so decisive.

She always repaid debts fairly.