Chapter 884

Vivian stood at the villa's entrance, her fingertips chilled by the evening air.

The door swung open.

Ethan's imposing figure appeared in the doorway, a small energetic shadow bouncing beside him.

"Aunt Vivian!"

Theo darted forward like an excited sparrow, wrapping his arms around her legs.

She crouched down to ruffle his soft hair.

"Why haven't you visited me for so long?" Theo pouted, his round eyes brimming with accusation.

Ethan observed them silently from a few steps away.

"I'm here now, aren't I?" Vivian pinched the boy's plump cheeks.

Theo instantly brightened, tugging her hand toward the interior.

"Come see my new toys!"

Ethan followed at a measured distance, maintaining exactly one meter between them.

Vivian glanced back at him.

"Four days left."

Her whisper carried clearly across the space.

He gave a curt nod, his gaze darkening.

Theo led her through the villa, chattering excitedly about each feature.

"Look at this swing set!"

"The glass conservatory shows all the stars at night!"

Familiar details pricked at Vivian's heart. These were all designs she'd personally created.

"Aunt Vivian," Theo suddenly looked up with hopeful eyes, "will you move in with us?"

She hesitated.

"You can have your own room here," the boy added insistently.

Nearby, Ethan pretended sudden interest in the garden view.

Kneeling to meet Theo's eye level, Vivian softened her voice.

"I have my own home now, but you can visit me anytime."

His lower lip trembled.

"Do you..." he fidgeted with his fingers, "...not like Uncle Ethan anymore?"

The question froze her.

"Why would you ask that?"

"Because..." his voice dwindled to a whisper, "other kids' parents all live together..."

Her chest constricted.

"Grown-up relationships are complicated. You'll understand when you're older."

"I'm four already!" He puffed out his small chest indignantly.

She couldn't suppress a smile.

"Then ask me again when you're twenty."

Theo suddenly leaned in, whispering conspiratorially:

"Are you in love with someone else? I won't tell Uncle Ethan!"

Ethan's shoulders visibly stiffened.