Chapter 516

The Little Spy

Ryan Fairsprene's hands trembled slightly as beads of sweat formed on his forehead.

"Having Dr. Laurent assist me... I don't deserve such an honor."

His voice quivered with unease.

Ever since Vivian's pregnancy, Nathan Clementson had strictly forbidden her from operating. No matter how many patients flooded the hospital or how urgent the surgeries became, he adamantly refused to let her participate.

Restless, Vivian could only make rounds, checking on patients—including Liam Valdemar.

After a day of rest, Liam's complexion had visibly improved.

When he saw Vivian in her white lab coat, his pupils contracted sharply.

"Shadow... you're working here as a doctor?"

He feigned surprise.

The truth was, he'd known all along. After their chance encounter during the cruise casino incident, he'd thoroughly investigated her—the renowned Dr. Luna, whose waiting list stretched for miles.

But he had to play dumb, pretending this was his first discovery that Shadow was still alive.

Vivian gave a slight nod. "Call me Vivian. That's my real name."

Her eyes held apology. "I'm sorry, Liam. All these years you've been searching for me, yet I never reached out."

"Vivian..." Liam tested the waters. "May I call you Vivi?"

"Of course."

Isabella and the others called her that. Though Liam was older—the thought of him addressing her as "big sister" was unimaginable.

"What happened these past three years? Can you tell me?"

Liam carefully closed the distance, preparing to swiftly integrate into Vivian's life.

She shrugged. "Nothing extraordinary. Failing that last mission made me realize many things. Life's too short—you have to seize happiness when you find it. I met someone I loved, so I got married."

A pause. "I didn't want to disturb you, so I stayed hidden. Sorry for making you search so long."

Liam smiled tenderly. "Just knowing you're alive is enough. Vivi... it's so good to see you again."

"What are your plans now?"

Liam shook his head. "No concrete ideas yet. I'll focus on recovering first. I might need to trouble you during this period."

"Don't mention it." Vivian waved a hand. "Leave it to me."

"I'm unfamiliar with Seattle. Don't even have a place to stay."

"I'll handle accommodations." Vivian patted her chest. "Won't let you sleep on the streets."

Liam had assumed he'd move into her home, but instead, she immediately tasked Lucas with finding a property.

Vivian was currently strapped for cash. She'd transferred billions to Liam earlier and hadn't had time to replenish her funds—her pockets were practically empty.

Buying a house would likely require borrowing from Isabella.

She spread property listings before Liam. "Pick one you like. I'll purchase it."

"No rush." Liam declined politely. "Let's discuss after I'm discharged."

"Alright. A few more days of observation then."

Just as Liam prepared to continue their conversation, a knock interrupted.

"I'll get it."

Vivian opened the door to find Theo Evans standing there, masked.

"Doctor Vivian!" His sweet voice chirped through the fabric.

"How did you find this room?"

"The other nurses told me."

Theo had an ulterior motive for visiting today.

His uncle had sent him to gather intelligence—the little spy was on a mission.