Chapter 183

Finn Deross paled instantly, waving his hands frantically. "Misunderstanding! Someone like me could never be connected to such an important figure. There are thousands of people with the surname Deross in Riverdale. If I had those kinds of connections, would I really be scraping by taking contracts on the Dark Web?"

Sweat beaded on his forehead as he spoke rapidly. Vivian Laurent arched an eyebrow but didn't press further.

"Just joking. Why so nervous?" She returned to studying Dominic Atlante's file.

Finn stole glances at her expression. Seeing no suspicion, he exhaled slightly in relief.

This mission had been Vivian's initiative. If it went south, he wouldn't dare face his uncle's wrath. Just imagining Dominic's icy gaze sent chills down Finn's spine.

Using Finn's account, Vivian accepted the contract and immediately began investigating. The Triple Six Realty crisis had been resolved—media fallout handled, homeowner protests settled. She'd personally inspected all construction materials, hired veteran project supervisors, and had Isabella Langley overseeing everything. The situation was airtight.

"Master..." Finn sidled up, blinking pitifully. "I've got nowhere to go after being discharged. Could I maybe—"

"Not a chance."

"You'd make me sleep under a bridge?"

"Should I send you back to the hospital right now?"

Finn's eyes darted. "I'll pay rent! Or I'll report you to the Dark Web for hijacking my account!"

Vivian narrowed her eyes. Though the threat meant nothing, Finn had his uses. She gave a reluctant nod.

"Ten thousand a month."

"Highway robbery!" Finn's eyes widened.

"Take it or leave it."

"Fine!" He gritted his teeth. What he could learn from Vivian was worth far more than ten grand.

At dawn, Vivian flew overseas for the mission. Despite her hiatus, the skills were second nature. She packed equipment efficiently, instructing Finn to house-sit while assigning Lucas Lefèvre and Isabella to manage company affairs.

Five days passed without Vivian's call appearing in Ethan Roscente's call log. The hospital reported Dr. Laurent's unexplained absence, while only Lucas remained at the construction site. Ethan checked racing events and AN Atelier's schedule—no trace of her.

His phone chimed again: "The number you dialed is unavailable."

Ethan shot up, bolting out without his suit jacket. The elevator took too long—he took the stairs three at a time.

In the parking garage, his black sports car roared to life. Ethan's knuckles whitened around the steering wheel. He needed to see Vivian now. Not a second longer.