Ch. 71..80
Chapter 71
Chapter 71
Surprised, she turned around and saw Ashley who had just walked up the stairs, looking at her with an
equally astounded face.
Vivian’s heart started thumping.
What a small world! Must it meet Ashley here?
This boutique provided the best tailoring service in the city. Ashley had come to custom-made her outfit
for the party on the weekend but had she expected to see Vivian, the cheapskate here.
“Vivian.” In her pinkish-orange high heels, she click-clacked over to Vivian and continued, “Why are you
here? Is this a place a penny-pincher like you should come?”
There was no one around so Ashley was even cockier than usual and every word she uttered to Vivian
was as nasty as it could be.
Vivian’s eyes flickered with a cold glint and before she could even respond, Noah stepped in front and
spoke in a nonchalant tone, “Miss, please mind the way you’re speaking to Mrs. Norton .”
“Mrs. Norton?” Ashley was utterly baffled but she was discerning enough to recognize that Noah was
no ordinary man so she restrained herself from lashing out again.
In the meantime, the salespersons working in the boutique had finished taking Vivian’s measurements.
To avoid having anything to do with Ashley, Vivian quickly spoke, “Noah, let’s go.”
With a nod, Noah glared at Ashley and escorted Vivian downstairs.
Seeing how Vivian had ignored her, Ashley stomped on the ground in rage, frightening the salesperson
next to her who could only ask in a jittery manner, “Ms. Miller, are you ready to take the
measurements?”
It was only then Ashley came to her senses and turned to the salespersons and asked shrewdly, “Hey,
do you know who was the woman just now?”
Ashley was a patron of the shop so the salespersons were aware of her overbearing personality and
afraid she would be displeased if they don’t tell her the truth. Plus, there was nothing to hide about
Vivian’s identity, hence they replied frankly, “She’s Mr. Norton’s wife.”
“Mr. Norton?” Ashley’s eyes widened in astonishment. “Which Mr. Norton?”
“Mr. Finnick Norton of the Finnor Group.”
Ashley was so shocked that she stumbled and nearly fell to the ground.
Others might not know who Finnick was, but as Fabian’s fiancée, Ashley knew who he was too well.
Finnick was Fabian’s uncle and the younger son of the Norton family.
Ashley’s face was drained of color and she could not believe what she just heard.
Isn’t Vivian married to a penniless pauper who couldn’t even afford a diamond ring? How does it turn
out to be Finnick?
All at once, she could not care less about making any gown and rushed downstairs with her purse in
her hand. She got in the car and bellowed, “Send me to Glamour Magazine right now!”
As soon as she reached her destination, Ashley dashed up to the floor where the magazine company
was, and when the receptionist asked who she was looking for in a panic, she blurted out impatiently,
“I’m looking for your Chief Editor, I’m his fiancée.”
Upon hearing that, the receptionist immediately led the way for Ashley to Fabian.
Just as Ashley went into Fabian’s office, Vivian, under the escort of Noah, had also reached the ground
floor of the building where the magazine company was located in.
Immediately after Vivian arrived at the magazine company, she realized the atmosphere was unusually
awkward.
Everyone was not busy working on their assignments and instead, gathered in small groups around
themselves, excitingly discussing about something, to which she had no idea.
Seeing Vivian walked in, Shannon stood tall immediately and smirked, “Oh my goodness, Vivian. I’m
surprised you still have the face to come back. Aren’t you afraid of getting caught?”
Perplexed, Vivian frowned at what Shannon just said, and before she knew it, she was pulled to a
corner by Sarah who whispered to her, “Vivian, do you know the Chief Editor’s fiancée is here?”
Vivian was puzzled.
Ashley’s here?
What is she doing here?
Chapter 72
Chapter 72
Meanwhile, the air in the Chief Editor’s office was exceedingly tensed.
Ashley was standing in front of Fabian’s desk with her pupils enlarged in fury as she shrieked, “Fabian,
why didn’t you tell me that Vivian is your uncle’s newly married wife?”
It was very much to Fabian’s surprise that Ashley had found out about Vivian’s identity. He was
befuddled for a while but when he looked at the egotistical way Ashley behaved, an impatient gleam
flashed across his eyes and he replied, “I didn’t keep you in the dark on purpose. It was just not
something I’d deliberately mention out of the blue. Besides, they’d also attend the party on the
weekend. Wouldn’t you have found out by then?”
Ashley got even more irritated when he mentioned the party.
“And you have the cheek to bring up the party on this weekend!” Ashley’s pitch turned even more ear-
piercing. “Have you ever thought about how devastated I would be if I suddenly saw Vivian at the
party? And how should I even address her?”
Ashley had been spoiled by Harvey and Emma since young, as a result, she had always been very
capricious.
However, in order to get along well with Fabian, she had been trying to restrain her temper for the past
six months. Yet, she was in a state of frenzy this time and could no longer suppress her wrath.
All this was a result of her contempt for Vivian, especially when she realized how she thought she had
shattered Vivian William, the person she despised the most in the world. Unfortunately, it turned out
that Vivian had got on top of her and became Fabian’s aunt; therefore, she needed to vent!
“Fabian!” She got angrier. “Tell me the truth now! Did you knowingly hide this from me because you still
care about Vivian? Are you waiting to see me get embarrassed on the weekend!”
Fabian was extremely annoyed by Ashley but when he heard her last sentence, he regained his
composure.
“What are you talking about?” With a scornful laugh and a ruthless beam radiating from his eyes, he
replied, “It’s still not time to tell who will be the one to feel embarrassed yet.”
Though perplexed, Ashley had finally redeemed her cool.
She furrowed her eyebrows and asked, “Fabian, what’s that supposed to mean?”
“Don’t you think this is strange?” Fabian lighted a cigarette and started puffing on it. “How could the
Norton family accept a woman like Vivian who had such a murky past two years ago?”
Ashley was still confused but right in the next instant, it suddenly dawned on her the implication behind
Fabian’s words and she was no longer irate. Instead, she became excited at once. “Fabian, are you
saying that your uncle is still unaware of what happened two years ago?”
“He’s aware.” Fabian’s face darkened unwittingly.
Again, Ashley was stunned. “Then why did he still…”
“The point is not about Uncle Finnick.” Fabian was increasingly irritated and he interrupted Ashley
hastily. “It’s about my grandpa. For a veteran like him, virtue is what he values most in people. There’s
no way for him to tolerate a woman with a stinking past like Vivian.”
Ashley was instantly pleased. “Well then, Fabian, what have you prepared?”
“I’m preparing to spill the truth about Vivian to Grandpa at the party this weekend.”
“That’s it?” A little disappointment crept on Ashley’s stunning face.
Fabian frowned. “What are you suggesting?”
Under the pointy glare of Fabian, Ashley laughed playfully. “I was simply asking.”
In spite of everything, Ashley was relieved after knowing that Fabian was going to come after Vivian as
well.
Doesn’t that imply that Fabian has no more feelings for Vivian?
Even though it’s a shame Vivian managed to hook up with Finnick, but Finnick is just a cripple after all.
And by disclosing that incident from two years ago, Vivian might just be chased out by the Norton
family.
Ashley felt a lot better thinking of that.
Realizing that she had lost her self-control just then, Ashley was a little rueful and she went up to
Fabian. She sat on his lap ingratiatingly, and said, “Fabian, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have lost my temper.
Are you mad at me?”
Chapter 73
Chapter 73
A strong scent of perfume drifted into his nose and Fabian grimaced unknowingly.
Ashley was undoubtedly adorable. Which was exactly why he had chosen her among so many other
women.
However, since he returned to the country, he had become increasingly irritable with Ashley’s temper
and it felt as though she had become more overbearing somehow. Even her perfume smelled
unpleasantly strong.
Unlike Vivian, regardless of whether it was when we were studying or now, there’s always a faint
fragrance on her. It was the shower cream she used, indistinctive, but always refreshing…
D*mn!
Why am I thinking of this woman again!
The more he looked at Ashley, the more peeved he got, so he pushed her away directly. “I still have a
meeting to attend to. If you’re tired, you can rest here for a while. Just remember to close the door
when you leave.”
With that, he stood up and left the office, completely disregarding the pale-faced Ashley.
Ashley clenched her fist tightly as she watched Fabian walking out of his office, and the fiery red
fingernails of hers almost poked through her palm.
Was it an illusion? She felt that ever since Fabian met Vivian, he had become more distant from her.
Could it be that he isn’t completely over her?
No!
It’s impossible!
He was even ready to mortify Vivian. How can he still have feelings for her?
Wait a minute.
Is it possible that it’s actually Fabian’s plan to separate Finnick and Vivian so that she becomes single
again?
When this thought emerged in Ashley’s mind, her face turned even paler.
Sh*t!
No! There’s no way I’m leaving Vivian with any chance of turning around!
Biting her lips, Ashley came up with a plot in her mind.
…
When Ashley left Fabian’s office, the staff in the magazine company couldn’t help but start another
round of gossip.
“Oh my goodness! So that’s the fiancée of our Chief Editor? She looks gorgeous and her fashion sense
is fantastic as well.” Sarah was astonished and exclaimed in admiration.
Vivian sat at her place; her gaze swept over Ashley and the gleam in her eyes darkened.
That’s right. Ashley has always been very charming and her presence was just like a princess since
young. She always looks stunning.
Comparing to her, I am just a nobody, always buried under her dazzling halo.
Shannon who was sitting on the side heard Sarah and sneered, “Of course, that’s the distance
between the legitimate fiancée and the third wheel. If I were you, Vivian, I would definitely back away.”
Vivian shot a glare at Shannon and stood up abruptly.
Shannon nearly jumped with fright and she took a step back. “Vivian, wha-what are you doing?”
“Nothing.” Looking at the paper tiger’s frightened expression, the scornful curve on Vivian’s lips
deepened. “I’m only preparing to clock out.”
With that, she grabbed her purse on the desk and left the office.
She was rather fortunate for when she came to the elevator, Ashley had already left, saving them from
another awkward encounter.
As soon as she reached home and stepped into the house, she could smell the delicious aroma wafting
from the kitchen, and she knew at once that Liam and Molly had returned.
She washed her hands before sitting down to have dinner together with Finnick.
Not knowing why, Finnick seemed bothered and did not have much of an appetite even being served
with a table full of Molly’s sumptuous cooking. He took some food for Vivian absentmindedly while
saying, “I’m free this weekend. Let me accompany you to visit your mom at the hospital.”
Startled, Vivian answered anxiously, “You don’t have to do that.”
Lifting his eyebrows, Finnick turned to look at Vivian. “Why?”
Vivian realized that her response was too curt and with embarrassment creeping on her face, she
explained mindlessly, “My mom has just got a little better so she needs to rest well.”
“I guess it’s some other reason than that.” It seemed to be crystal clear to Finnick. “It’s because your
mom doesn’t want to see me.”
Vivian’s hand which was holding the cutlery paused midair and she moved her lips. “Of course not.”
“Why not?” Finnick was very calm. “I could feel it. Your mom doesn’t like me.”
Vivian couldn’t think of anything to refute his statement, so she replied clumsily, “It’s not because of
you. It’s mom being mom. She doesn’t like wealthy men.”
Finnick was even more surprised.
He had certainly run a background check on Vivian’s family and therefore, he was aware of the
“mistress” or “third wheel” status of Rachel William.
Finnick did not say anything but Vivian seemed to be able to read his mind. She laughed bitterly and
asked, “You know I’m an illegitimate daughter, right? You must be thinking how could my Mom dislike
wealthy men after getting together with Harvey.”
Finnick remained silent.
“The truth is, my Mom has never really been together with Harvey.”
Chapter 74
Chapter 74
Suddenly, Vivian’s expression darkened. “My mom and Harvey were studying in the same university.
Harvey always fancied her but my mom didn’t feel the same way about him. Nevertheless, Harvey’s
feelings for her never faded even after he got married. In fact, he even drugged and raped her. That’s
how I was conceived. Although my mom hated Harvey, she felt that I was innocent, so she decided to
keep me.”
Finnick looked at Vivian as he had never heard about this from his previous investigations.
“Emma was jealous of the feelings Harvey had for my mom, hence she spread rumors everywhere.
She accused my mom of seducing Harvey and declared that she was his mistress. As my mom didn’t
have any connections in high society, there was no way she could defend herself. All she could do was
to bring me up by herself while enduring the smear on her reputation.
As Vivian recounted the past, her fist clenched unwittingly while her eyes were filled with hatred.
She absolutely despised Harvey. Unfortunately, there was no way she could change the fact that he
was her biological father.
Lowering his gaze toward Vivian, Finnick held up her clenched fist and gently pried open her fingers
one by one.
Vivian was caught by surprise. She raised her head to look at him as she smiled awkwardly. “I’m sorry,
did I lose my composure?”
“You didn’t.” Despite his calm facade, Finnick’s eye emitted a much gentler vibe than usual. “I’m happy
that you are sharing all this with me.”
It really meant a lot to him.
In truth, it wasn’t hard for him to find out about the matter if he really wanted to. But, when Vivian
related it to him personally, it carried a lot more weight.
Giving Finnick a puzzled look, Vivian couldn’t help but laugh. “You really are one strange man.”
Finnick responded with a faint smile without commenting.
True to her words, he did find himself acting increasingly strange ever since he got to know Vivian.
The next few days were calm and uneventful.
Finally, the weekend arrived and it was time for the Norton family’s dinner party.
On that day, Vivian was up very early. However, the makeup artist and hairstylist had already arrived.
After spending a whole day working on her, they finally completed her makeover.
As for Finnick, he was already prepared well ahead of time and waited quietly in the living hall.
Soon, he heard the crisp footsteps of walking heels. Raising his gaze, he was stunned when he saw
Vivian walking down the stairs gradually.
The last time she wore a gown to see the Norton family, she had already surprised him once.
This time, he was even more astounded.
Vivian was wearing a rose-gold-colored full-length dress. The tapered cut of her dress accentuated all
her curves while its bareback showcased the beautiful curvature of her back.
Her hair was tied in a bun while her makeup looked natural instead of being ostentatious, allowing her
exquisite features to outshine.
Nevertheless, Vivian still wasn’t used to walking in heels. Holding the edge of her skirt, she carefully
descended the steps. There, she saw Finnick looking at her with glistening eyes.
Blushing bashfully, she asked softly, “How do I look?”
Just a moment ago, she too was shocked when she saw herself in the mirror.
She was a girl after all. Being dolled up and dressed in a beautiful gown was certainly something she
looked forward to. However, ever since she was young, all she could do was watch Ashley enjoy this
privilege. As for her, she could only wear a white T-shirt and jeans while watching Ashley mesmerize
everyone else.
However, today was different. Finally, she knew that she too had the opportunity to look gorgeous.
Unable to peel his eyes off Vivian, Finnick laughed softly and didn’t answer her question. Instead, he
grabbed her wrist and gave her a gentle tug.
“Ah!”
Vivian could hardly maintain her balance in her heels. Hence, when Finnick pulled her into his
embrace, she fell right onto his lap on the wheelchair.
Chapter 75
Chapter 75
Both of them were so close to each other that a few strands of Vivian’s stray hair touched Finnick’s
neck. Finnick circled his hands around her waist and whispered, “You look so gorgeous that I don’t
even dare to take you out with me.”
Vivian was surprised to hear Finnick flirt with her given that he was a man of few words. She was
speechless as she blushed unwittingly.
Finnick chuckled before wheeling both of them out of the villa and got into the car.
Once they settled in, the driver drove them towards the Norton family’s villa.
Along the journey, Vivian couldn’t help but feel nervous.
After all, she will see Fabian and Ashley later. Moreover, just the thought that there would be a lot of
people at the party caused her to worry that she would embarrass herself.
Detecting the tension in her smile, Finnick seemed to have guessed what was going through her mind.
He asked softly, “Are you nervous?”
“Yes,” Vivian admitted. “I’m worried about embarrassing you.”
“How can you embarrass me when you look so pretty?” Finnick let out a faint smile. “Have you
attended a party like this before?”
“No.” To calm her nerves, Vivian began to talk more. “But, I did work as a waitress at such events
during my university days to pay for my tuition. At that time, I was envious of all those girls dressed in
beautiful gowns. I even wondered if I would ever get a chance to attend a party like that someday.”
Finnick chuckled in response. “So, I guess your dream has come true?”
“You can put it that way.” Vivian laughed along with him. “After work, I would practice the dance steps I
saw the ladies performed discreetly. So that when I have the opportunity to attend a party of my own, I
could dance just as elegantly…”
Suddenly, Vivian realized she had said something wrong and stopped abruptly. After which, she looked
at Finnick anxiously.
Damn it. I was being careless.
I have forgotten that he is a cripple in front of others and can’t dance. What I did simply rubbed salt into
his wounds.
In contrast to Vivian’s anxiety, Finnick was calm and there wasn’t the slightest change in his smile. He
replied casually, “Is that so?”
Vivian no longer dared to say anything else and remained silent till they arrived at their destination.
Finnick slid out of the car before offering his hand to help Vivian out.
After carefully alighting, Vivian was astounded when she saw the villa in front of her.
It was a huge villa and there were many luxury cars parked right in front. Numerous handsome young
men and beautiful women streamed out from the cars and entered the building.
Suddenly, Vivian was a little distracted.
So, this is the sort of party they are having. It looks exactly like those I saw on TV.
As she was dazed by the magnificence of the occasion, she let Finnick lead her into the villa.
Along the way, they met a lot of people who were mostly either members of the Norton family or their
associates. As everyone was aware of his status, they were greeted politely with respectful smiles. “Mr.
Norton.”
Despite their cordial attitude, Finnick could feel the curious stares coming from everyone around them.
As for Vivian, she tried her best to ignore the stares and followed Finnick closely as they entered the
villa.
Inside, the dining hall where the party was held was huge. Its decorations were luxurious yet tasteful.
While Finnick led Vivian to the main table, she could see Fabian and Ashley from afar.
Fabian was dressed in a tapered grey suit and looked dashing in it. Meanwhile, Ashley wore a bright
yellow full-length dress which made her looked like a blooming flower.
“Hey, Finnick, you’re here!”
The first to see Finnick and Vivian was a man who sat beside Fabian. He appeared close to fifty years
old and had well-defined features. However, his eyes looked as if they had seen too much which made
one feel uncomfortable.
Immediately, Vivian could guess that he must be Mark, Finnick’s brother and also Fabian’s father.
Mark quickly shifted his attention to Vivian and smiled knowingly at her. “This must be Ms. William. I’ve
heard a lot about you. Come, please have a seat.”
After Vivian settled down together with Finnick at the table, he began to introduce everyone there to her
after which she greeted them one by one.
The first was obviously his grandfather, the elder Mr. Norton. Although Vivian had met him before, she
didn’t leave a good impression then. Hence, she knew had to do better this time.
The elder Mr. Norton snorted in response and hardly said a word.
Next, Finnick introduced her to Mark who scrutinized Vivian from head to toe, causing her to feel
uncomfortable.
After that, it was Fabian and Ashley’s turn. The moment Fabian laid eyes on Vivian, he was briefly
struck by how beautiful she was. However, he quickly collected himself and maintained his frosty
appearance.
As for Ashley, she was so overwhelmed by jealousy that she was unable to hide any of it from her face.
She did not expect Vivian to turn into such a beautiful swan. Vivian was so gorgeous that she had
outshone Ashley who was supposed to be the party’s center of attention.
Her jealousy didn’t stop there. In fact, she was even more astounded by how dashing Finnick looked.
Chapter 76
Chapter 76
Although she was already aware of how handsome and capable Finnick was, she looked down upon
him due to the fact he was a cripple.
But now, when she saw him with her own eyes, she finally realized just what an exceptional man he
was.
All along, she always assumed that Fabian was the most extraordinary man she had met. But
compared to Finnick, Fabian was relegated to just being ordinary.
Despite being dressed in a simple black suit, Finnick emanated a unique vibe. One could feel the
gravitas he possessed and the humility he carried. Beneath all that, was a hint of elegance and a touch
of sexiness.
Ashley was stupefied as she looked him.
If not for the fact that Finnick was sitting in the wheelchair, Ashley would have felt that her efforts in
finally getting together with Fabian were all for naught.
Once the introductions were completed, the servants proceeded to serve dinner.
Despite being tempted by all the tantalizing dishes in front of her, Vivian kept herself in check and just
took whatever dishes that were nearest to her.
Noticing Vivian’s restraint, Finnick picked out her favorites and placed them on her plate.
Even though this was a small action, it sent an emotional shockwave to most people sitting around the
table.
The elder Mr. Norton was so surprised that the look he gave Vivian changed after that.
As for Mark, his expression darkened but no one knew what was going through his mind.
Finally, Fabian was the one who was most agitated.
When he saw how lovey-dovey Finnick and Vivian were, he could feel the fury within him burn like a
raging inferno.
As his eyes flashed with anger, he suddenly sneered, “It looks like Uncle Finnick loves to pamper Aunt
Vivian.”
Vivian’s hand froze the moment she heard his words.
What is Fabian up to now?
Finnick casually gave Fabian the side-eye. “What’s wrong with me pampering my wife?”
In response, Fabian’s eyes burned with greater intensity. The next time he spoke, his tone became
visibly sarcastic. “There’s nothing wrong with pampering her. I’m just afraid Aunt Vivian’s character
does not deserve this treatment.”
His words were just like lobbing a grenade to the center of the table. Everyone at the main table turned
silent as their expressions turned grim.
Vivian herself was pale in shock.
As for Finnick, his expression couldn’t be more frosty. “Fabian, what are you trying to insinuate?”
“I’m not trying to insinuate anything.” Fabian mood appeared to improve when he saw that he had
managed to infuriate Finnick. “It’s just that I happen to study in the same university as Aunt Vivian.
Hence, I know a thing or two about what she did during those days.”
When he heard Fabian trying to keep everyone in suspense, the elder Mr. Norton was the first to lose
his patience.
Slamming his cutlery onto the table, he demanded, “If you have something to say, spit it out. Don’t keep
going in circles. You’re just annoying the hell out of me.”
Prior to this, Vivian had heard that the elder Mr. Norton was a soldier who did a lot for the country. After
he left the army, he went into business. Armed with wisdom and tactfulness when doing business, he
quickly gained a foothold in Sunshine City.
In spite of that, he was still a soldier at heart. Therefore, he didn’t like to sweat the small details and
hated it when anyone tried to be sneaky.
Fabian turned pale when he was admonished by his grandfather, so he quickly added, “Grandpa,
based on what I know, Vivian sold her dignity when she was studying. Therefore, I don’t think someone
with such questionable character deserves to be a member of the Norton family.”
The last bit of color left Vivian’s face when she heard Fabian’s words.
She neither tried to give any explanation nor was she angry. All she did was glare at Fabian who was
sitting opposite her.
Once he was done speaking, Fabian felt the fire raging within him a moment ago had dissipated. Right
when he wanted to gloat at Vivian, he didn’t expect to see an ashen face and a pair of glistening eyes
glaring at him.
What’s with that look?
One might say it was a look of admonishment but in truth it was more of disbelief.
At that moment, he felt her gaze pierce through his heart just like a needle, stunning him.
In a blink of an eye, he immediately regretted his impulsive actions. Just when he was about to say
something, he heard someone from the next table exclaim in shock.
“My God! What is that?”
As the loud scream shifted everyone’s attention away, they raised their heads and suddenly saw a
large screen light up in front of them.
What was even more shocking was what was showing on the screen.
There were a few pictures that were playing on a slideshow.
When she saw those pictures, Vivian froze as if she had been struck by lightning.
Chapter 77
Chapter 77
They were all pictures of her.
In the pictures, her face was drunk red, her hair messy and her clothes were strewn all over. She was
lying in a provocative position with an arousing expression on her face.
Although there wasn’t any part of her body exposed, her flushed red face and steamy expression were
telling enough that everyone could see what was going on.
Vivian could recognize these pictures instantly.
They were taken two years ago and were the same ones Fabian questioned her about.
She immediately turned her head and glared at Fabian. Her gaze was no longer one of disbelief.
Instead, it had turned into deep-seated hatred.
She knew Fabian hated her because he wrongly believed that she had betrayed him then. That was
why he brought up her history during dinner in front of the Norton family. He simply wanted vengeance.
However, she could have never expected him to expose the pictures, let alone played them for
everyone to see.
He just wanted to destroy me!
Even if I really betrayed him then, there was no need to go to such lengths.
As for Fabian, the shock he was experiencing was no lesser than that of Vivian.
He did bring up Vivian’s disgraceful history but it never crossed his mind to do it in this manner.
To do so would be too despicable and cruel, even for him.
Therefore, he didn’t know how those pictures were being played on the screen.
In the midst of his panic, his reflex was to explain himself to Vivian. But when he looked at her, his eyes
were met with a gaze filled with animosity.
In a blink of an eye, he felt as if his world had collapsed.
He never expected that a woman he had loved so deeply before would one day look at him with
overwhelming hatred.
Equally shocked were all the other guests present.
There were many guests at the party. Other than the members of the Norton family, there were many
others who were relatives and business associates. Therefore, the whole hall was filled with guests.
When everyone saw the pictures, they were stupefied.
Although they were well brought up members of high society, human nature was naturally nosy. Hence,
all of them couldn’t help but gossip softly.
“My God! What’s happening? Why are such pictures shown during the Norton family’s dinner party?”
“Are you stupid? Can’t you see the lady in the picture is Mr. Norton’s new wife?”
“Oh! It really is her! When were these pictures taken? I don’t think they were taken by Finnick. Could it
have been another man instead?”
“This is utterly disgraceful. I think the girl is going to be kicked out of the Norton family.”
As most of the guests were respected members of society, no one said anything that was extreme.
Nevertheless, they couldn’t help gloat at the Norton family’s misery and comment in a mocking manner.
When Vivian heard the guests’ remarks, her face paled further. She clenched her fist so tightly under
the table that it felt like she was going to punch her fingers through her palms.
As for Finnick, his temper finally flared the moment he saw the pictures.
Damn it!
How dare anyone touch my woman in front of me.
The main table wasn’t far from where the control panel was. Without giving it any thought, Finnick
picked up the steak knife and stabbed it through the control switch of the screen.
Crack!
In a blink of an eye, the screen turned dark.
No one expected Finnick to react that way. Shocked by how he responded, everyone stopped
gossiping.
The next moment, there was complete silence across the room.
No one dared to utter a single word as they looked towards the elder Mr. Norton. They were all curious
as to how he was going to react.
“Ahem.” Despite being someone that had gone through a lot in life, he was still appalled by what he
saw. However, he managed to regain his composure quickly. Turning his attention towards Finnick, he
sneered, “Finnick, is this true?”
Finnick didn’t answer his grandfather’s question immediately. In fact, his attention wasn’t even on the
elder Mr. Norton but his gaze fell upon Vivian instead.
When he saw her shockingly pale expression, his eyes turned icy cold.
Chapter 78
Chapter 78
“Finnick!” When Finnick didn’t answer him, the elder Mr. Norton was infuriated. He stamped his walking
stick on the floor and glowered. “I’m asking you a question!”
Only then did Finnick turned to face him with a cold expression. “If I tell you that it’s fake, will you
believe me?”
As the elder Mr. Norton was his grandfather, Finnick remained respectful but didn’t fear him at all.
The elder Mr. Norton was so infuriated that wrinkles filled his face. “Finnick! Do you really think that a
woman with such low moral standards can be a part of the Norton family?”
The elder Mr. Norton’s words send a shockwave through the room.
His statement couldn’t have been clearer. He was denouncing Vivian’s place as a daughter-in-law of
the Norton family outright.
Vivian’s body couldn’t help but tremble in response.
For some reason, she felt as if her heart was smashed when she heard what the elder Mr. Norton said.
Initially, the main reason she got married was so that she could have her name registered in Sunshine
City. Since it’s now done, I shouldn’t care much whether the marriage lasts?
However, for some inexplicable reason, the thought of divorcing Finnic and not being able to return to
his villa, or even growing distant from each other caused a sense of disappointment in her.
When he noticed the change in Vivian’s expression, the only thing Finnick felt was his heart squeezing
tightly onto itself.
Without any hesitation, he grabbed Vivian’s clenched hands under the table.
Amidst the elder Mr. Norton’s wrath, everyone present was frightened and kept quiet. However, there
was only one person who was desperately trying to keep her head down. She didn’t want anyone to
notice that she was gleefully gloating.
That person was no other than Ashley. She was the mastermind behind those pictures.
When she heard Fabian wanted to expose Vivian’s true colors during the party, Ashley was thrilled but
felt he didn’t go far enough.
Since they were going to harm Vivian, they might as go all out. She wanted to destroy Vivian’s
reputation to the extent that she would not dare to show her face in the high society of the city.
Therefore, she secretly bribed the Norton family’s servant to broadcast the photos she had so that
everyone could see the darkest side of Vivian.
That way, even if Vivian and Finnick divorced, Fabian would never get back with her given how egoistic
he was.
While Ashley was counting her chickens before they hatched and waiting for the Norton family to
kicked Vivian out, she did not anticipate what Finnick was about to say. He was going to wipe that
smirk of hers off her face.
“Grandpa, you are right. Perhaps, Vivian does not deserve to be a member of the Norton family.” When
Finnick finished the first part of his sentence, Vivian’s face turned further pale. However, he quickly
added, “But, my wife doesn’t need the acknowledgment of the Norton family.”
Looking up in disbelief, Vivian’s eyes met Finnick’s gaze.
Within the calmness in those eyes, she could see the determination behind it. The warmth in his hand
permeated through her skin gradually, as if it would melt the coldness in her heart.
Suddenly, Vivian could feel a burning sensation in her nose.
Even the elder Mr. Norton was stunned. Meanwhile, Mark could no longer hold back his anger and
reprimanded, “Finnick, how can you speak to Grandpa like that? After marrying such a loose girl and
disgracing our family, you still refuse to repent!”
Only then did Finnick shift his attention away from Vivian and gazed coldly at Mark.
Despite just being a glance, it was more than enough to send a shiver down Mark’s spine.
“Mark,” Finnick called out to him in an icy tone. “Don’t throw wild accusations at my wife.”
Mark’s face turned pale and was about to say something when elder Mr. Norton cleared his throat
abruptly.
At that moment, Mark held his tongue and looked towards his grandfather.
“This matter requires further investigation. After all, she is Finnick’s lawfully wedded wife,” elder Mr.
Norton remarked with a tone that was hard to discern. “Do not let the comments of unscrupulous
people trigger a feud among us.”
Vivian was stunned when she heard those words.
Although she didn’t know the elder Mr. Norton well, she was aware that he had a reputation for being
ruthless and cold-blooded in the city. Without such a relentless attitude, the Norton family wouldn’t have
become what they are today.
Hence, she didn’t expect him to be so reasonable. I have disgraced the Norton family and yet he is not
holding me accountable?
Both Mark and Finnick were also caught by surprise by their grandfather’s reaction. Since Grandpa
always had the say, both of them didn’t dare say anything further.
The only person who was most upset with the turn of events was Ashley.
Her eyes widened in astonishment as she couldn’t believe her ears.
She had assumed she could annihilate Vivian this time and shatter her reputation. Unexpectedly, none
of her desired outcomes came about.
Finnick didn’t mind Vivian’s history while the elder Mr. Norton chose not to press the matter.
What is going on?
Peeved with the outcome, Ashley let her tongue loose without thinking. “Great Grandpa, these aren’t
just baseless speculations. They’re the truth…”
Before Ashley could finish, the elder Mr. Norton turned and glared fiercely in her direction. Ashley was
seized by fear and rendered speechless.
Chapter 79
Chapter 79
“Who is this ignorant girl and where does she come from?” the elder Mr. Norton reprimanded her
sternly, “Know your place! You are not qualified to address me as Great Grandpa as you have yet to
marry into the Norton family. Hence, stop commenting about our family matters.”
Ashley was dumbfounded after being admonished and regretted her impulsive decision to speak out.
She had not expected that the scheme she painstakingly put in place didn’t hurt Vivian at all. Instead,
she ended up leaving a bad impression on the elder Mr. Norton.
That very instant, she didn’t dare utter another word. All she did was keep her head down as her teeth
dug into her lower lip.
Why? Why did he do that?
Why is Vivian always so lucky to escape whatever I throw at her? I just can’t beat her!
When the next dish was served, everyone ate in silence.
After dinner was finally finished, everyone proceeded to a hall in the next room to dance.
As the band performed on stage, melodious music filled the room. There were a lot of couples dancing
in each other’s arms. Amidst the music, waiters weaved in and out of the crowd serving champagne
and wine. The guests who didn’t dance crowded together and chatted merrily.
The scene looked like what she had always seen on TV. However, Vivian had the niggling feeling that
she didn’t fit it. Standing behind Finnick’s wheelchair, she could sense the occasional condescending
stare and mocking gazes.
“Finnick.” Vivian was watching Ashley and Fabian dancing in the center of the room and how they
captured everyone’s attention. It simply made her feel awkward. “Shall we go home now?”
After all, they couldn’t dance and there was nothing much left to do.
“We will be staying the night here,” Finnick replied without hesitation.
Despite feeling perplexed, Vivian nodded without protest.
“What’s wrong? Are you not feeling comfortable?” Finnick’s eyes darkened. “Is it because of what
happened just now?”
Vivian was caught off guard and didn’t know how to respond. “I’m fine with it. When that incident
happened two years ago, I had endured much worse than this in comparison. I-I’m just worried that you
wouldn’t be happy staying here,” Vivian answered sincerely.
Finnick was her husband. From an outsider’s perspective, they might misconstrue that she had
cheated on him. For a man, this was extremely damaging to his ego.
Vivian really didn’t want Finnick, who had an exceptional reputation, to end up becoming a laughing
stock because of her.
Surprised by Vivian’s answer, Finnick gave it some thought. He then turned his wheelchair in Vivian’s
direction. When he saw her nervous and awkward expression, his heart couldn’t help but melt.
“Vivian William,” he suddenly asked, “would you like to dance?”
“Dance?” Vivian was stunned. “With whom?”
Given Finnick was in the wheelchair, he definitely couldn’t dance. However, other than him, she didn’t
know anyone else there.
When he saw Vivian’s puzzled expression, Finnick smiled unwittingly.
“With me,” he quipped and grabbed Vivian’s hand out of the blue.
With him?
Vivian became even more confused. Before she could react, Finnick was already rolling his wheelchair
to the center of the hall with Vivian in tow.
Being pulled along, Vivian followed him in acquiescence.
“Finnick?” Vivian was stunned. “What are you doing?”
“Dancing.” Finnick’s usually indifferent gaze was now filled with glee. “Didn’t you say that you made an
effort to learn the dance steps? Do you still remember them?”
Only then did Vivian comprehend that Finnick wanted to dance with her.
She blushed at his question. “I… I just spoke without thinking. I can’t even follow the rhythm properly.”
Finnick’s grin widened. “Is that so? That will only make things easier.”
Vivian was surprised. Before she could ask why, Finnick held her hand and gave it a forceful tug.
The next moment, Vivian lost her balance and fell into Finnick’s arms.
“Finnick! What are you…” She panicked and scrambled to stand back up. However, Finnick hugged her
waist so tightly that she was unable to move at all.
Chapter 80
Chapter 80
“Hang on tight.” Finnick lowered his gaze at her and beamed. “We are dancing!”
Just as he spoke, Finnick moved his wheelchair along with the music, gently rocking back and forth to
its rhythm.
As for Vivian, she leaned into his embrace as both of them rolled together under the bright lights and
gaping stares of the guests.
She was mesmerized by the moment.
Staring at Finnick’s handsome face, she couldn’t find a single flaw on his chiseled features. His usually
cold gaze was now draped in gentleness. It caused his expression to sparkle just like a sparkling.
This handsome man is actually my husband.
As Finnick’s wheelchair gently swayed to the music, all the other guests gawked in astonishment. Even
Ashley who was the center of attention a moment ago couldn’t help but stop to watch.
“Dancing in a wheelchair?” she exclaimed. But, jealousy soon filled her eyes as she sneered, “A cripple
will always be a cripple. That’s the sad reality.”
Ashley had planned to mock Finnick and Vivian. But when she saw how exceptionally dashing Finnick
was and how he gracefully waltzed his wheelchair to the music, she suddenly felt her mockery had lost
all its basis.
Furthermore, she wasn’t alone. All the other watching guests who were astonished at first were now
filled with envy.
“My God! This is the first time I see someone emit so much charm dancing in a wheelchair.”
“I’m really envious of that girl called Vivian for how much her husband loves her. Furthermore, he is
such a romantic and a capable man too.”
“That’s the second son of the Norton family for you.” A few elderly guests recollected what happened a
long time ago. With a regretful tone in their voice, they remarked, “He was such an exceptional child
since he was young. If only the kidnapping didn’t happen. Sigh.”
Meanwhile, Vivian, who was sitting on Finnick’s lap, could faintly hear the remarks of the other guests
though she couldn’t make out what they were saying. Not able to resist, she looked towards them.
Without any hesitation, Finnick raised his hands and held onto her chin to stop her.
“Do you care about what they say?” Finnick obviously knew fully well what was on Vivian’s mind.
Vivian smiled awkwardly in return.
“You shouldn’t,” Finnick murmured. After letting go of her chin, he gently caressed her. “All you need to
do is to relish this current moment.”
Finnick’s voice deepened and seemed to have some devilish charm in it. Completely bewitched, Vivian
nodded obediently. Reaching her hands around his neck, she swayed her body gently to match his
movements.
When he saw Vivian moving along with him, Finnick’s grin widened faintly.
Meanwhile, at the staircase on the second floor.
The elder Mr. Norton was standing there, looking down upon the dancefloor and taking in everything
that had happened.
When he watched Vivian and Finnick rolling around the dancefloor, he clearly saw her laughing
joyously and the beam on Finnick’s face. The scene caused his lips to widen slightly.
It’s been a long time since I saw that child smile.
“Mr. Norton.” At that moment, an old butler approached. “It’s almost time. Do you want me to usher the
guests out and arrange for Finnick and Mrs. Norton accommodation?”
“Mmm, it’s about time.” Regaining his senses, the elder Mr. Norton nodded. “By the way, please get
Vivian to see me in my study.”
Just as he spoke, the elder Mr. Norton turned and headed there.
Finally, the ball started to wind down. The star of the night didn’t turn out to be Ashley who was
supposedly the guest of honor. Instead, it was Vivian who sat on Finnick’s lap the whole night.
When the final song was done, Vivian stood up. While she was still blushing, she saw an elderly-
looking butler approach her. He politely informed her, “Mrs. Norton, the elder Mr. Norton wants to see
you in the study.”
Vivian was shocked.
What does the elder Mr. Norton want with me?
Is it because of the pictures just now?
When she recalled how sharp the elder Mr. Norton’s gaze was, Vivian couldn’t help but feel nervous
and looked towards Finnick subconsciously.
However, Finnick nodded lightly at her. “Don’t worry, although Grandpa is an eccentric, he isn’t an
unreasonable man.”