Chapter 481

Finn tapped his phone screen lightly. The social media post went live instantly.

"Happy travels! Returning home tomorrow!"

The photo showed three figures standing together against a sunset backdrop.

Ethan's phone lit up with a notification—Finn had just updated his feed.

His fingers tightened around the device, knuckles turning white.

"One happy family?" He stared at Vivian standing beside Dominic in the photo, his chest constricting.

So this was where Vivian had been for the past two weeks—abroad with Dominic?

Didn't she know what kind of man Dominic was?

Her relaxed smile in the picture suggested she'd enjoyed the trip thoroughly.

Ethan's gaze burned into the image as if trying to see through the screen.

If they were returning tomorrow, the airport would be the perfect meeting place.

He immediately dialed his assistant. "Pull all flight manifests arriving from the States tomorrow."

...

The restaurant's crystal chandeliers cast a soft glow.

Vivian set down her fork and met Dominic's gaze across the table. "This dinner invitation wasn't just to thank me, was it?"

Dominic swirled his wine glass. "Dr. Laurent, your medical skills are exceptional. I'd like you to join my private medical team."

"I'm afraid I must decline." Vivian maintained her polite smile. "I prefer being an ordinary doctor."

"Ordinary doctors don't cure my nephew's chronic condition." Dominic leaned forward. "Name your price."

Finn kept his head down, barely breathing between bites.

"Finn is young and inexperienced." Vivian's tone remained steady. "There are far more skilled physicians than me."

"But you're the only one I trust." Dominic's voice dropped. "Any conditions—just say the word."

Vivian clinked her glass against his. "I'm not looking for career changes."

She took a measured sip. "Surely you won't hold this against me?"

Dominic chuckled darkly. "Of course not. I'm a law-abiding citizen."

Vivian suppressed a scoff. This man who straddled the line between legal and criminal had no right to that description.

...

Dawn broke as their flight took off on schedule.

Vivian gazed out the window at the clouds streaming beneath them.

Dominic sat across the aisle, his penetrating glances frequent during the five-hour journey.

When they retrieved luggage, he suddenly approached. "Let me help."

"No need." She sidestepped.

"Don't be distant." His voice softened. "You're Finn's mentor."

Vivian wheeled her suitcase briskly toward the exit.

Just before reaching the corridor, an arm snaked around her shoulders.

"Watch your step." Dominic's whisper brushed her ear.