Chapter 842

Ethan Roscente grew increasingly clingy toward her.

Vivian Laurent arranged a private meeting with Patrick Alpinus.

She revealed every detail about Annika Heilbronn's background to the Interpol agent.

"She's dangerous," Vivian warned. "Given the chance, she'll retaliate against you."

Patrick's expression remained resolute. "As law enforcement, we're prepared for risks. Annika has blood on her hands—she must face justice."

Vivian nodded. "Then I leave it to you."

"It's my duty."

Annika had been temporarily held by Isabella Langley and Lucas Lefèvre before being officially transferred to Patrick's custody.

The handover was completed swiftly, with Annika secured in detention.

Vivian dialed Liam Valdemar's number.

"Annika's been arrested," she stated bluntly.

Silence stretched before a cold reply came through. "Noted."

The moment the call ended, Liam's face darkened.

"Useless!" He shattered his teacup against the wall.

His carefully cultivated protégé—wasted after years of training—had been exposed so easily by Vivian.

Worse, Interpol's involvement made extraction nearly impossible.

Liam had no choice but to abandon the pawn.

He immediately contacted the Shadow Organization's director.

His initial capture by the Dark Web had been staged—all part of the plan to infiltrate Vivian's circle.

As the heir apparent, betrayal had never crossed Liam's mind.

Yet Vivian had become the greatest threat.

The assassination attempt four years ago had failed.

Now she'd not only survived but grown stronger, with Ethan Roscente as her shield.

Another strike would require meticulous preparation.

With Annika dealt with, Vivian finally exhaled.

She began planning her departure.

But Ethan shadowed her every move.

"Hungry?" He tied an apron around his waist. "I've been practicing new recipes."

Vivian frowned. "Your cooking is terrible."

"Should I order from Michelin then?"

"Not interested."

Ethan coaxed her into eating a few bites, feeling like an overbearing parent.

"The weather's clear tomorrow," he suggested after dinner. "Let's go out."

After days of rain, sunshine finally broke through.

He wanted to lift her spirits.