Chapter 533
"Let's go." Vivian Laurent gripped Isabella Langley's wrist and strode away.
Ethan Roscente remained frozen in place, his outstretched hand hovering midair.
His fingers trembled slightly as he watched Vivian's retreating figure.
Memories from three years ago flooded back—when he'd pushed her away instead of holding her close.
Now even a glance from her felt like an impossible luxury.
......
Isabella turned the steering wheel, casting a sidelong glance at Vivian in the passenger seat.
"Lost in thought?" she teased. "Thinking about Ethan?"
Vivian pulled her gaze from the window.
"Why would I?" Her lips twisted wryly. "I'd rather decide what to order for dinner."
Isabella arched a brow. "Drinks tonight?"
"Sure." Vivian answered without hesitation.
She needed alcohol to numb the storm of emotions.
"I'll book VIP seating." Isabella winked. "Might meet some eye candy."
A thought struck her. "Invite your friend too?"
Vivian hesitated. "He's still recovering..."
"Hospital rooms are depressing." Isabella shrugged. "He can sip juice."
Vivian pulled out her phone. "I'll ask Liam."
Liam replied instantly. He'd been itching to escape the sterile hospital walls and jumped at the chance to join Vivian.
Isabella also invited Emily and Erin, planning a lively evening.
......
When Ethan pushed open his office door, Felix Valdemar and Patrick Alpinus were sipping tea.
"Boss?" Felix's eyes widened at Ethan's expression. "You look—"
"Fine." Ethan loosened his tie.
Felix whispered to Patrick, "He definitely saw Vivian."
"Vivian?" Patrick frowned.
"His ex-wife." Felix lowered his voice. "Used to ignore her, now regrets it. Tell me he doesn't have—"
Patrick cleared his throat to cut him off.
As night fell, the trio arrived at the bar entrance—Isabella's territory where Ethan was persona non grata.
Felix produced three face masks. "Wear these."
Strobe lights pulsed inside, bass thundering through the walls.
"Upstairs booth." Felix gestured.
Ethan froze mid-step.
His gaze locked onto a distant figure, pupils contracting sharply.