Chapter 963

"Detective Alpinus, I need a favor." Vivian's knuckles whitened around her phone.

"Is this about Annika's case?" Patrick's voice came through the receiver.

"Yes." She took a deep breath. "I need to see her."

Silence stretched for several seconds.

"Annika's being held in a maximum-security overseas prison." His tone turned grave. "Visitation isn't permitted under protocol."

Her fingernail traced the edge of her phone case.

"But considering your assistance during the arrest..." Patrick's voice softened. "I'll request special visitation clearance."

"Thank you." Some tension left her shoulders.

"However..." He hesitated. "Does Ethan know about this?"

Her lashes fluttered.

"Don't tell him." She lowered her voice. "He's preoccupied with the multinational acquisition."

Hanging up, Vivian turned to find Isabella twisting Felix's ear.

"Viv!" Isabella released him immediately. Felix hopped on one foot, clutching his reddened ear.

"All set?" Isabella approached.

Vivian nodded. "Waiting on Detective Alpinus's arrangements."

Isabella frowned. "In your condition..."

"What condition?" Felix rubbed his ear, inserting himself between them.

Isabella shot him a glare.

Vivian rested a hand on her abdomen. "There won't be another chance after delivery."

Felix's gaze dropped to her stomach. His eyes widened.

"Dr. Laurent, you're..." He sucked in a sharp breath. "Is that Ethan's?"

Isabella smacked the back of his head. "Obviously!"

Felix rubbed his skull, stunned. "Does Ethan know?"

A bitter smile touched Vivian's lips.

That was precisely what worried her.