Chapter 554

The chandeliers of Oscar Valence's estate glittered like captured stars. Vivian Laurent glided through the crowd on Ethan Roscente's arm, her champagne-colored gown scattering diamond-like reflections across the ballroom.

"Mr. Roscente," Oscar blocked their path with a viper's smile. "Have you seen the maid who served me earlier?"

Ethan arched an eyebrow. "Maid?"

"She stole confidential documents." Oscar's knuckles whitened around his glass. "I'll make her regret breathing."

Vivian's fingers twitched against Ethan's sleeve, though her crimson lips curved into flawless composure.

Ethan shifted subtly to shield her. "You must be mistaken."

Oscar's gaze crawled over Vivian. "And this is...?"

"My wife." Ethan's palm settled possessively at the small of her back, thumb tracing idle circles through the silk.

Vivian nearly cracked a molar.

"Married?" Oscar's drink sloshed.

"Four years." Ethan pressed a kiss to her forehead. "She prefers privacy."

Her nails dug into his waist through the tuxedo fabric.

"Strange I've never seen Mrs. Roscente." Oscar's eyes narrowed.

"I reside in Switzerland." Vivian clung to Ethan's arm, stiletto heel grinding into his Oxfords. "Just visiting for this event."

Ethan's smile never wavered, though his breath hitched.

When Oscar finally retreated, Vivian wrenched free. "Have you lost your mind?"

"Security cameras." Ethan caught her wrist, nodding toward a blinking lens. "Play along."

An aide rushed to Oscar whispering, "Records confirm Mr. Roscente's marriage. The photos match this woman exactly."

"Find that damn maid!" Oscar snarled.

Beneath crystal pendants, Ethan caged Vivian against a marble column.

"Release me." Her whisper could frost glass.

"Ten more minutes." His lips brushed her ear, drawing a flush. "My wife is... distracting." His fingers traced her collarbone.

Vivian stomped on his polished shoe with lethal precision.