Chapter 186

Vivian Bennett froze.

Zachary Hudson's invitation came without warning.

"Tonight," he stated firmly, leaving no room for refusal.

His arm wrapped around her, pulling her into the car.

"My friend is still..." Vivian turned back urgently.

Sophia Miller stood on the street corner, giving her a sly wink.

She waved, signaling Vivian to go without worry.

Vivian pressed her lips together in resignation.

Her best friend had clearly misunderstood.

Zachary stepped on the gas, the sports car heading toward the most expensive French restaurant in the city.

A waiter bowed deeply as he led the way, his attitude respectful to the point of deference.

Even the folded corner of the napkin bore his exclusive mark.

"Has Liam Sullivan let you go?" Zachary suddenly asked while cutting his steak.

The silver fork gleamed coldly under the light.

Vivian's fingers trembled. "How did you know?"

"Isabella Sullivan dared to move against you precisely because..." He chuckled lightly. "You no longer have anyone backing you."

A chill ran down her spine.

Zachary swirled his red wine, his eyes darkening. "She often uses such methods."

"You seem to know her well?"

"Well enough." A shadow passed through his gaze. "After all, she destroyed someone I cared about."

Dinner ended in silence.

The night was thick as ink when the sports car stopped outside her apartment building.

"Thank you," Vivian reached to push the car door open.

Her wrist was suddenly grasped—right where Isabella had left that red cut.

His fingertips gently brushed over the wound. "Does it hurt?"

"I'm used to it by now," she shook her head faintly.

She had endured far worse pain than this.

Zachary suddenly laughed softly, a bewitching curve lifting the corner of his mouth.