Chapter 524
The night was deep and silent. Ethan Roscente stood motionless, afraid to disturb the figure before him.
Vivian Laurent's silhouette looked especially fragile under the moonlight. She had rushed downstairs wearing only a silk nightgown.
Ethan closed the distance in three quick strides. Without hesitation, he removed his suit jacket.
He carefully draped it over Vivian's shoulders, his fingertips accidentally brushing against her hair.
"It's freezing. You should dress warmer."
Vivian didn't refuse, standing quietly in place.
Seeing her wrapped in his jacket, Ethan's lips curved upward unconsciously.
"You're really here. Not a hallucination."
His voice held undisguised joy, his gaze warm enough to melt ice.
Vivian stood on the steps, moonlight outlining her delicate profile.
"I know what you want to say," Ethan spoke first. "Just seeing you makes me happy. I'll leave soon."
He paused, his eyes lingering on Vivian's slightly pale face.
"How's your injury? Don't push yourself too hard. Get proper rest."
"You don't need to save the world. Just take care of yourself."
Vivian looked up at him. This talkative man seemed like a different person from her memories.
"Ethan, you..."
Her words trailed off.
She'd intended to coldly send him away, but couldn't bring herself to say the harsh words now.
The night wind tousled her long hair and stirred her emotions.
Ethan's gaze dropped to her slightly parted lips. His Adam's apple bobbed involuntarily.
Reason told him to restrain himself, but longing had already broken through all defenses.
Weeks of pent-up emotions churned in his chest.
That unfamiliar man's sudden appearance, their intimate interactions - everything had driven him mad with jealousy.
"Go back." Vivian turned her face away, nails digging into her palms.
Before she finished speaking, Ethan's arm snaked around her waist.
His scorching kiss descended without mercy, carrying months of suppressed yearning.
Vivian found herself engulfed in his scent, her very breath stolen away.