Chapter 429

Ethan Roscente leaned against the doorframe, his fingers tapping lightly on the wooden panel. "Got a minute? Need to talk."

Emily Garnache looked up in confusion. Their interactions had been limited to polite exchanges at her father's business events.

"Private matter." Ethan deliberately raised his voice, his gaze flickering toward the closed door.

Emily frowned. "What private business could we possibly have?"

He gestured invitingly. "Let's talk somewhere else."

As he guided Emily down the hallway, the door suddenly swung open.

Vivian Laurent blocked their path with a cold expression. "Where exactly are you taking my assistant, Mr. Roscente?"

Ethan shrugged. "Just having a conversation."

"Does this conversation require excluding me?" Vivian pulled Emily behind her. "Go back inside."

Emily glanced anxiously between them before hurrying away.

A triumphant gleam flashed in Ethan's eyes. He'd never intended to actually speak with Emily.

"Inside." Vivian turned sharply and reentered the room.

Ethan followed calmly. The simply furnished guest room bore signs of temporary occupancy, with Vivian's unfinished documents still spread across the bed.

"What's your game?" Vivian crossed her arms.

Ethan held up his hands innocently. "Like I said, just talking."

"The Garnache family isn't to be trifled with." Vivian's voice held warning. "Mr. Garnache is notoriously protective."

Ethan chuckled. "I have no interest in Miss Garnache."

His gaze swept over the double bed meaningfully. "Seems tonight—"

"Dream on." Vivian cut him off. "I let you in for business."

Ethan's playful expression vanished. "I'm listening."

"Sophia Evans attempted suicide. She's comatose in the hospital." Vivian watched his reaction closely.

Ethan remained impassive. "Expected."

"That's all?"

"What else?" His lips curled coldly. "She's lucky to be alive. If the princess consents, I'll arrange specialized supervision. A psychiatric facility may be more appropriate."

Vivian nodded. She'd only done her due diligence by informing him.

"Finished?" Ethan arched an eyebrow.

"Get out." Vivian pointed at the door.

Ethan didn't move, his dark gaze pinning her in place. "Sure there's nothing else you want to say to me?"