Chapter 606

Victoria Roscente staggered back half a step under Vivian Laurent's piercing glare.

Whispers rippled through the crowd as curious onlookers turned their attention to the scene.

"You'll pay for this!" Victoria hissed through clenched teeth.

Her stiletto heels clicked sharply against the pavement as she stormed away.

Vivian immediately knelt to examine Theo's face.

"Aunt Viv, I'm okay." The boy shook his head, blinking back tears.

But the angry red mark stood out starkly against his swollen cheek.

"Let's get some medicine." Vivian took Theo's small hand in hers.

Isabella Langley hurried toward a nearby restaurant. "I'll fetch ice."

Inside the pharmacy, Vivian carefully selected an anti-inflammatory ointment.

Isabella returned quickly with a bag of ice cubes.

Vivian pressed the cold compress gently against Theo's injured cheek.

"That woman's insane!" Isabella fumed.

"The Roscente family breeds madness." Vivian applied the cream with steady fingers.

"If I'd been there, I would've—" Isabella mimed a violent twisting motion.

Vivian chuckled. "Next time, I'll let you handle it."

"Why does she hate you so much?" Isabella asked.

Vivian glanced at Theo. "Not here."

After treating the injury, Vivian dialed Ethan Roscente's number.

Ethan arrived with thunderous fury darkening his features.

"Victoria did this?"

"Your sister just assaulted your son." Vivian stated calmly.

Ethan scooped Theo into his arms. "I'll deal with this."

As father and son departed, Isabella immediately demanded answers.

Vivian recounted the incident at the high tea party.

Isabella's eyes widened. "She deserved it!"

"Karma always collects its due." She crossed her arms indignantly.

Vivian tucked away the medicine bag. "Enough about her."

Though the golden locket remained unpurchased, Theo's thoughtful gesture warmed her heart.

...

Tension crackled through the Roscente mansion's grand foyer.

Victoria clutched her cheek dramatically. "Ethan, Vivian hit me!"

"Apologize to Theo." Ethan's voice held Arctic chill.

"Why should I?" Victoria shrieked.

"Because you laid hands on my son." Each word fell like a hammer strike.