Chapter 320

Vivian Laurent slipped sleeping pills into Ethan Roscente's water.

She sighed softly as she watched the exhausted man drift into sleep.

The office was silent except for the rhythmic tapping of keyboard keys.

When Ethan woke, city lights already glittered outside the window.

Rubbing his temples, he realized he'd slept the entire afternoon in Vivian's office.

Her coat still lay draped over the sofa beside him.

He strode into the hallway where only Ryan Fairsprene remained on duty.

"Where's Dr. Laurent?" Ethan's voice was rough with sleep.

Ryan looked up. "She left at six."

Ethan's brow furrowed.

She'd abandoned him here alone.

His car sped toward Vivian's apartment, but the windows were dark.

Dominic Atlante was nowhere to be seen either.

...

Vincent Valrose intercepted Vivian at the hospital's back entrance.

Deep wrinkles creased his eyes, his suit rumpled.

"Vivi." He forced a paternal smile.

Her fingers tightened around her bag strap.

"I made your favorite sweet and sour ribs." Vincent took a step closer. "Come home for dinner."

Vivian's laugh was icy. "You forgot I'm allergic to seafood."

Vincent's face stiffened.

"Bring Mr. Roscente along?" he ventured.

Vivian's lips curved. "Sure."

His eyes lit up.

"But..." She adjusted her cuff with deliberate slowness. "Do you really think Ethan would spare you a glance?"

The smile froze on Vincent's face.

"We eat now or never." She checked her watch. "Your choice."

Vincent hurried after her. "My car's right ahead."

Vivian stared at his hunched back, her gaze glacial.

This so-called father didn't even know she hated ribs.