Chapter 988

Ethan's tenderness was impossible for Vivian to resist.

She had always believed herself strong enough. Accustomed to walking alone with support from friends like Isabella and Lucas, she now realized how beautiful it felt to have someone by her side.

Burying her face against Ethan's chest, she listened to his steady heartbeat. Their hearts beat so close together that even their breaths synchronized.

"How did you figure out about Liam?" Vivian whispered.

"Instinct." Ethan tightened his embrace. "The way he looked at you made me uneasy. Knowing he met you before I did drove me mad with jealousy. Thankfully, I'm the one standing with you now."

Vivian chuckled, lightly patting his cheek. "I asked about Liam, and here you are praising yourself."

Her fingertips traced the contours of his face, from brow to jawline, each feature etching itself into her memory.

"Why mention him?" Ethan caught her hand. "Anyone who dares bully my wife isn't worth our breath."

"Who's your wife!" Vivian's ears burned crimson.

Though married three years, they'd never used such intimate terms before. Their past distance now felt like a dream.

"You are now, and always will be." Ethan's voice held certainty. "Actually, I should thank Liam."

Vivian arched an eyebrow. "For what?"

"If he hadn't forced you to take that final mission, we'd never have met. You'd never have fallen for me at first sight."

"Ethan!" Vivian pinched his cheek. "Have you no shame?"

"Am I wrong?" He leaned close, his breath warm against her ear. "You've always liked me. Vivian, I like you too."

The sudden confession made her heart skip.

"The Ethan I knew was an unattainable flower." She turned away. "Since when did you become so smooth-talking?"

"Only for you." His low chuckle sent shivers down her spine. "Besides, when have I ever been smooth? Get to know me better—you'll find I have many virtues."

He seized the opportunity for self-promotion. After Vivian's mention of scoring him, he intended to impress.

"I don't want to." Vivian pouted. "You're nothing but flaws."

"At least this face isn't bad?" Ethan deliberately moved closer. "Keep looking—it might earn me points."

Never had he imagined relying on his looks to please her. Yet if it meant holding her gaze longer, he'd gladly do so.