Chapter 854

Dominic Atlante didn't insist when Vivian Laurent declined the meal.

"Shall we leave now?"

"Fine."

"Give me the car keys." Dominic extended his palm.

Vivian arched an eyebrow. "Quite the natural chauffeur, aren't you? Though I'm sure you could've hired a professional driver overnight."

He could've easily arranged for one, yet he chose to drive her himself.

Vivian didn't protest. Having someone else take the wheel was always preferable.

The capital city brimmed with tourist attractions. Last time they visited popular spots, but today Vivian selected a quiet park.

"This is your idea of a date? Rather underwhelming."

"Cut me some slack. I'm not exactly in the mood."

If not for maintaining appearances, she wouldn't have left her apartment at all.

Ethan Roscente would undoubtedly know about her outing with Dominic.

At that moment, Ethan was indeed seething with jealousy. He'd never shared such casual outings with Vivian.

He knew direct appeals wouldn't bring her back.

But someone else could.

Ethan turned his attention to Theo Evans.

Today he resisted following Vivian, fearing he might lose control. Instead, he stayed with Theo, gently coaxing the child to make a call.

"Theo, your Aunt Viv went out with another uncle. She's abandoning Uncle Ethan." He feigned heartbreak.

Theo's eyes widened. "Really?"

"That uncle isn't a good person. Will you help Uncle Ethan bring Aunt Viv home?"

"Okay!"

When the call connected, Vivian immediately recognized Ethan's manipulation—yet Theo's distress still tugged at her heart.

"Theo? What's wrong?"

"Aunt Viv, I miss you so much. Can you come play with me?"

"I'm sorry, sweetheart. I'm busy right now."

Sniffles came through the line. "Does Aunt Viv not like me anymore? Did I do something wrong?"

"Of course not! I could never not like you..."

"But I can't sleep because I miss you so much. If Aunt Viv doesn't want to see me, I won't bother you anymore..."

The child's tearful voice melted Vivian's resolve.

"Don't cry. I'll come see you soon."

"Really? Yay!" Theo's mood instantly brightened.

Hanging up, Vivian gave Dominic an apologetic look. "I have to go."

"Running back to Ethan again?"

"It's Theo who needs me."

Dominic's eyes glinted. "Then I'll accompany you."

"But—"

"If it's not about seeing Ethan, my presence shouldn't be an issue?"