Chapter 359

Ethan Roscente's phone vibrated during the board meeting.

A faint smile touched his lips when he saw the caller ID. The executives exchanged puzzled glances—their usually stern CEO never smiled.

"Meeting adjourned." He strode out of the room, fingers trembling slightly as he answered. "Vivian?"

Her familiar voice came through. "Ethan, are you free to meet?"

His grip tightened on the phone, knuckles turning white. This was the first time Vivian had initiated plans with him.

"I'm free now." His voice was tense. "Where are you? I'll pick you up."

"No need." Her tone was crisp. "Meet me at Blue Mountain Café below your office in thirty minutes."

The call ended abruptly. Ethan stood frozen, staring at the darkened screen for a long moment.

His secretary gave him a curious look when he turned. He cleared his throat. "Clear my schedule for the afternoon."

Back in the conference room, Ethan announced, "Double bonuses for all employees this month."

Murmurs erupted. The same CEO who had been furious moments ago was now handing out rewards?

Throughout the rest of the meeting, Ethan kept checking his watch. When Sophia Sherwood launched into a lengthy presentation, he cut her off. "Save it for your department head."

"Meeting dismissed." He stood so quickly his suit jacket fluttered.

Sophia watched his hurried exit with narrowed eyes. She followed discreetly and saw him enter the café, taking a seat by the window.

"What a coincidence, Mr. Roscente." She approached with a coffee. "Mind if I join you?"

Without looking up, he replied, "I'm waiting for someone."

The door chimed as it opened. Ethan's head snapped up, his gaze locking onto the figure stepping inside—

Vivian stood in the doorway in a beige trench coat, raindrops glistening in her hair.