Chapter 99
Isabella Sullivan’s pupils contracted sharply.
Disbelief was written all over her face.
She never expected her brother to openly admit his relationship with Vivian Bennett.
The phrase “my woman” struck her like thunder, ringing in her ears.
“Brother?”
Her voice trembled as she sought confirmation, afraid she had misheard.
Liam Sullivan offered no further explanation.
His declaration seemed entirely natural to him.
Isabella bit her lower lip hard.
Tears welled in her eyes.
Just then, a phone ringtone broke the silence.
The caller ID showed Eleanor Sullivan.
The matriarch invited her to dinner at Le Bernardin.
Isabella immediately felt emboldened.
“Grandma wants us to join her at Le Bernardin.”
She emphasized the word “us” deliberately.
Liam gave her a brief glance.
He signaled the driver to change routes.
Le Bernardin was Seattle’s top restaurant.
Reservations were notoriously difficult to secure.
Vivian had booked a private dining room in advance.
She wanted to ensure her grandmother wouldn’t be disturbed by the main hall’s noise.
She guided the elderly woman toward their reserved room.
As she reached for the door, the manager hurried over.
“Are you Miss Vivian Bennett?”
“Yes, that’s me.”
The manager smiled apologetically.
“I’m very sorry, but this room has been temporarily allocated to a VIP guest.”
“Please wait in the main hall instead.”
Vivian frowned.
“You didn’t mention this when I made the reservation.”
The manager wrung his hands.
“VIP guests have priority. I hope you understand.”
Vivian laughed in frustration.
“Your restaurant’s policies are certainly unique.”
She recalled the day’s misfortunes.
Her frustration grew.
Her taxi had broken down halfway.
A heavy downpour had soaked her.
She had endured Isabella’s unpleasantness.
Now, even a simple meal was being disrupted.
The manager continued apologizing.
“We made a mistake due to today’s rush.”
“How about a twenty percent discount as compensation?”
Vivian had no energy to argue.
She turned to leave.
Suddenly, she encountered Liam’s group.
Isabella was clinging affectionately to an elegantly dressed older woman.
They were walking directly toward her.
The elderly woman appeared vigorous and exuded an air of grandeur.