Chapter 447

"Never again." Ethan Roscente's voice was low, thick with barely concealed remorse.

Vivian Laurent spoke lightly, but no words could capture the endless nights of waiting and heartache she'd endured.

For six months, she'd cared for him with meticulous attention. What had been going through her mind during those days?

Three years of marriage spent alone in that empty mansion. Not once had he returned.

His extended stay in the Kingdom of Eudora—officially for business expansion—was really because of Theo.

Theo had been premature, confined to an incubator for three months. It wasn't until he turned two that his health stabilized.

Those three years, Ethan had poured everything into Theo, forgetting there was someone else waiting for him at home.

He owed everyone, but his deepest debt was to Vivian.

"Liar." Her arms tightened around his neck.

"It's true." His whisper was almost inaudible.

Drunk Vivian might not remember tonight, but he needed her to know he wouldn't fail her again.

She'd chased after him before. Now it was his turn to protect her.

Ethan carried her into the hotel elevator, reaching her room swiftly.

Finding the keycard in her purse, he unlocked the door.

He laid her gently on the bed, carefully removing her heels.

As he leaned over to pull up the covers, Vivian stirred.

She pushed up unsteadily. Before Ethan could react, their lips met.

His pupils contracted at the soft, wine-scented contact.

"Mmm..." Vivian blinked drowsily, seemingly confused.

When she instinctively tried to pull back, Ethan cradled the back of her head.

The kiss came fierce and hungry, years of pent-up longing unleashed.

He parted her lips effortlessly, claiming her with possessive intensity.

Vivian struggled weakly against his unyielding hold.

This kiss burned hotter than any before. Finally, he could taste her without restraint.

Always before, she'd push him away. But tonight, she'd initiated it.

Drunk Vivian was impossibly pliant, her glazed eyes inviting further conquest.