Chapter 550

"Mr. Roscente, what a pleasant surprise!" Oscar Valence greeted warmly. "I didn't expect to see you at this gala."

Ethan Roscente stood rigid under the crystal chandelier, his cold gaze sweeping across the room.

"Just passing through."

Vivian Laurent's fingers tightened around her serving tray.

Why was he here?

She had meticulously altered her appearance—contouring her nose to appear taller, deepening her eye sockets, even darkening her skin to a sun-kissed tan. Even her closest colleagues might not recognize her now.

Yet Ethan's piercing stare lingered on her for a full second.

"A martini," he demanded abruptly.

Suppressing the urge to roll her eyes, Vivian turned to fetch the drink.

When she returned with the glass, Ethan frowned.

"I asked for a dry martini. Not this sweetened swill."

Her nails dug into her palms.

She fetched another.

"Where's the olive?" Ethan arched an eyebrow.

Oscar coughed awkwardly.

Taking a steadying breath, Vivian prepared a third attempt—this time carrying an entire tray of assorted cocktails.

Finally satisfied, Ethan selected one and took a slow sip.

"Mr. Valence," he swirled his glass, "I hear you're negotiating an arms deal?"

Vivian's pupils contracted.

That was precisely her mission tonight.

Ethan shot her a knowing glance before engaging Oscar in animated conversation.

Standing rigidly nearby, Vivian gritted her teeth so hard her molars ached.

Her fingers brushed against the powdered sedative in her pocket.

If this man insisted on interfering, she'd simply put him to sleep.

Ethan accepted the drugged drink, the rim already touching his lips.

A faint smirk curled Vivian's mouth.

Just as he was about to swallow—