Chapter 541

Vivian grabbed Ethan's sleeve. "Don't go. That unreliable uncle of yours seems to have already left."

Ethan's lips twitched.

Unreliable?

"Perhaps he had an emergency," Ethan defended himself.

"What could be more important than a child?" Vivian frowned. "Someone so irresponsible doesn't deserve to care for children!"

Ethan listened quietly, letting her vent.

When she finished, he asked softly, "Should I take you to the hospital now?"

"It's too late." She yawned. "I just want to go home and sleep."

Ethan still hesitated. "At least a quick check-up?"

"I'm a doctor," Vivian glared. "Are you questioning my judgment?"

"Wouldn't dare." He surrendered immediately.

His voice softened. "Then let me drive you home. I'll make some porridge for you."

Too tired to argue, Vivian leaned back and closed her eyes.

Ethan slowed the car to a crawl.

But soon, Vivian's brows furrowed again.

He pulled over at once.

"Get out," he said, opening his door first.

Vivian blinked. "You're abandoning me here?"

With a sigh, Ethan knelt before her, turning his back.

"Climb on."

Vivian froze.

His broad silhouette looked exceptionally dependable under the streetlamp.

"The car isn't comfortable. I'll carry you," he murmured.

"That's not—"

"Be good."

After a pause, she relented and wrapped her arms around his shoulders.

Ethan secured her gently, rising with care.

"Tell me if you feel unwell."

He couldn't bear seeing her uncomfortable—even slightly.

Their elongated shadows stretched beneath the amber glow.

The distance wasn't short, but Ethan walked steadily.

He wished the journey could last longer.

Over an hour later, they finally arrived home.

Vivian had fallen asleep against his back.

Seeing the new lock, Ethan hesitated to wake her.

He called Finn.

"Open up," Ethan whispered.

Finn remained wary until hearing his master was drunk, then hurried downstairs.