Chapter 465

Vivian Bennett pushed her plate away.

The silverware clinked sharply.

"I'm finished." She stood, her voice icy. "You can have the lamb chops."

Liam Sullivan's fingers tightened around his wine glass.

Vivian left the dining room without looking back.

Her heels struck the marble floor with finality.

Beyond the revolving restaurant's glass walls, the city glittered like stars.

Liam sat alone at the table.

A romantic piano piece echoed through the empty dining room.

He slowly cut into his lamb chop.

His movements were elegant but lonely.

Vivian returned to her hotel room.

Hot water cascaded from the showerhead.

She stood eyes closed beneath the spray.

Drops trailed down her cheeks.

She couldn't tell if it was water or tears.

The mirror reflected a pale face.

Her robe hung loosely at her waist.

She remembered Liam bending to pick up the white rose.

The image unsettled her.

She brushed powder across her cheeks.

She chose a simple black gown.

She left every piece of jewelry in the case.

Liam was waiting in the hotel lobby when she descended.

His black tuxedo accentuated his tall frame.

He took her hand and pressed a kiss to it.

"Very plain." He eyed her attire. "You're learning."

Vivian withdrew her hand.

"I just don't want any trouble."

The ballroom blazed with light.

Socialites and elites mingled with champagne flutes.

The conference chairman hurried forward enthusiastically.

"Mr. Sullivan, your presence honors us."

Vivian was forced to stay at Liam's side.

She discreetly observed the industry leaders.

These were people she rarely had access to.

Liam seemed disinterested.

He swirled his champagne glass absently.

But his gaze never left Vivian.

Vivian was enjoying a conversation with a renowned scholar.

She didn't notice Liam's darkening expression.

Until his arm suddenly circled her waist.

"Excuse us."

He guided her toward the terrace.

Night air brushed her face.

"Having fun?" Liam's tone was unreadable.

Vivian pulled away from his arm.

"More fun than being with you."

Liam's eyes darkened.

He stepped closer.

"Remember who you belong to."

Vivian lifted her chin.

"I belong to myself."

The ballroom music shifted.

A waltz began to play.

Liam extended his hand.

"Shall we dance?"

Vivian looked at his offered hand.

She did not respond.

The atmosphere on the terrace grew tense.

In the distance, city lights flickered.

Their reflections gleamed in each other's eyes.