Chapter 63
The spacious backseat of the black Maybach exuded a subtle leather fragrance.
Vivian Laurent leaned against the seat with her eyes closed, allowing her exhausted mind to drift into rest.
Ethan Roscente pressed his lips together, swallowing unspoken words.
Within minutes, Vivian was fast asleep.
The car jerked to a sudden stop, tires screeching against pavement.
"Watch your driving!" Ethan's arm shot out, pulling Vivian protectively against his chest.
Her steady breathing showed no signs of disturbance.
"My apologies, Mr. Roscente." The driver glanced nervously through the rearview mirror.
Having chauffeured Ethan abroad for years, he'd never seen his employer show such concern for any woman.
Even Sophia Evans rarely gained access to this vehicle.
The car soon halted before an elegant villa.
Ethan studied Vivian's sleeping face.
Her long lashes cast shadows over cheeks still bearing faint marks from her surgical mask. Stripped of her usual sharpness, she looked unexpectedly vulnerable.
Who would believe the renowned Dr. Luna was this young woman?
Early twenties, yet wielding surgical skills rivaling seasoned specialists.
Ethan's thoughts drifted to his ex-wife.
Same age, yet worlds apart - one a medical prodigy, the other vanished without trace.
Lately, memories of that departed woman haunted him unexpectedly.
Vivian's slender fingers rested gracefully - instruments capable of both life-saving surgery and piano concertos.
"Mr. Roscente?" The driver ventured cautiously.
"Dismissed." Ethan's tone brooked no argument.
As the driver retreated, Ethan bent to scoop Vivian into his arms.
Her weightlessness startled him. An odd familiarity prickled his senses.
Two steps in, Vivian's eyes snapped open.
"Death wish?" Her fingers locked around Ethan's throat.
She cursed her uncharacteristic lapse. During Shadow Organization training, she'd never slept this deeply.
"Taking you home." Ethan remained unfazed.
Vivian released her grip. "Put me down."
"We're here. What's the code?"
Her laugh held ice. "You think you deserve to know?"