Chapter 460

After their conversation, Vivian Laurent led Ryan Fairsprene to Fiona Grandelle's residence.

Ryan was already aware of Fiona's deteriorating condition.

The room was dim when they opened the door. Vivian called softly, "Fiona, Dr. Fairsprene is here."

Fiona immediately buried her face in her arms.

"Dr. Fairsprene flew ten hours from Country C just to see you," Vivian approached the bed. "He came straight here without even stopping for water."

"I look... terrible right now."

Vivian held her trembling hand. "Dr. Fairsprene isn't a stranger. You two got along well before."

Ryan knelt beside the bed, his voice warm. "I heard you visited an island? I've never seen the real ocean. Will you take me next time?"

He wore a simple white shirt, his hair still carrying traces of travel. Sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a glow on his shoulders that made him appear radiant.

Fiona slowly lifted her head.

Vivian quietly exited the room, gently closing the door behind her.

With surgery approaching, it was good for them to spend time together.

Whatever Ryan said must have worked—when Vivian saw Fiona again, the girl's eyes had regained their sparkle.

The King had shielded Fiona completely from the outside turmoil.

Meanwhile, Ethan Roscente kept appearing like a ghost during Vivian's busiest moments.

Finally, Vivian had enough and dragged him into the garden.

"Are you done yet?"

"Not even close." Ethan's gaze burned. "I just wanted to see you."

"See what?" Vivian turned away. "Didn't you learn your lesson last time?"

"No drinking this time," he stepped closer. "Just looking."

The sight of her made even breathing feel lighter. The mountains of paperwork and exhausting meetings suddenly seemed trivial.

"I'm busy!" Vivian raised her defenses.

Ethan retreated half a step. "Fine, I'll leave."

Then he suddenly pulled her into an embrace.

"Eth—"

"Just one hug." He rested his chin on her head. "I can't come tomorrow. How long will the surgery take?"

"The whole day."

"Can I call?"

"No!"

Ethan released her. "Then I'll text. You don't have to read them."

Vivian glared.

The man was utterly hopeless.