Ch. 221..230

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 221

Ashley turned back and returned to the living room.

Harvey was sitting on the sofa, holding Emma in his arms. They were on the verge of breaking down. “I’ve always played by the rules and never held a grudge against someone when it comes to business. Who is it who wants to destroy the Miller family this time? I’m really stumped,” Harvey said, then noticing Ashley’s odd demeanor when she returned from the outside, he asked, “What are you thinking, Ashley? Did something happen?”

Ashley looked at Harvey, wondering if she should tell her father the truth. She didn’t want to exalt Vivian’s identity in front of her father, but she had no other choice now, seeing how they were standing on the edge of a cliff.

“Dad,” she said. “Perhaps it isn’t you but me who has offended someone.”

“You?” Harvey was baffled. “Ashley, what do you know? Who have you offended?”

With that temper of hers, it’s not surprising that she has crossed someone. But who exactly is that person to have such power that even Fabian was momentarily helpless?

Afraid that she was no match for Finnick, she said, “If I’m right, what happens to the Miller family is an act of revenge by the president of Finnor Group, Finnick Norton. He’s the second son of the Norton family and Fabian’s uncle.”

Finnick Norton! The famous Finnick Norton! The cold and formidable Finnick Norton!

Finnick’s name came as a bombshell to Harvey and Emma. Finnick had always been quick and efficient in his work. With his astonishing ability and intelligence, he left his enemies trembling in fear, so much so that breathing became an arduous task. Finnick had a net worth of over a hundred million, with many companies and properties under his command. His financial power alone was in a league of its own.

Emma and Harvey were confused.

The Miller family has no business dealings with him and, besides, Fabian is his nephew. Why is he sabotaging us?

“How have you offended him, sweetie?” Emma asked.

“Isn’t he Fabian’s uncle? That makes him your uncle too.” Putting the Miller family’s affairs before her dignity, Ashley made a clean breast of the truth. She said, “If it weren’t for Vivian, that little b*tch, would I have crossed such a big shot like Finnick Norton? This is all her fault. The crisis of the Miller family this time has definitely got to do with her!”

Fabian could say nothing in defense because he had suspected Finnick as well.

There was only one reason why Finnick would destroy the Miller family, and that was to protect Vivian from getting hurt again. It was Ashley who had been provoking Finnick again and again that triggered Finnick to go hard on them. Truth be told, if Fabian were to be placed in that situation, perhaps he would have done something more ruthless than Finnick.

Hearing that, Emma was even more confused.

With that status of hers, how did she get acquainted with Finnick Norton? Why would he make such a drastic move for her?

“How is that possible?” Harvey piped up, puzzled. “Vivian and Finnick Norton? How can there be a connection between them? They are two people of different worlds.”

Ashley sniggered, “How is not possible? They’re legally married.” Emma nearly fainted over at the information.

“Mom!” Ashley quickly went up to help her.

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Harvey had taken too many blows in a day that his thoughts were in a muddle.

When did this happen? Finnick Norton is my son-in-law? He’s Vivian’s legal husband?

Harvey didn’t have to ask Ashley to know that it must have been her who constantly sought trouble with Vivian that prompted Finnick’s revenge against the Miller family.

Did Vivian know about this? Is my daughter finally getting her revenge? This must be karma!

“Dad, the most important thing now is to find a way to solve this problem,” Ashley said.

Yes, it’s easier now that we know the reason.

Harvey said, “If it’s true that Vivian and Finnick Norton are behind this, then rest assured that I’ll see to it myself.” Emma pulled Ashley aside, whispering, “Say, how do you think Vivian got married to Finnick Norton? What did she do to seduce him?”

“How do I know? I found about it suddenly,” Ashley said, feeling upset about how Vivian had stolen her limelight since her marriage with Finnick.

“That little bastard!” Emma cursed. “How could she be so cruel to step on the Miller family after climbing the social ladder? And isn’t it unfair that a person like her found a rich husband? Hah! Just sit and watch. Finnick Norton will cast her aside once he’s done playing with her. By then, she’ll be just a piece of crap left on the streets, and Rachel William, that b*tch will have to suffer. These are just a nine days’ wonder and we’ll see about that!” Emma regretted mocking Vivian’s husband just now, thinking that the latter must have been laughing at her inside when she made a fool of herself. “Mom, once Dad fixes the matter with the company, I swear I won’t leave that little bastard alone!” Ashley said.

“You’d better not mess with Vivian,” Emma advised. “Isn’t it all because of you that the Miller family is in trouble this time? Just give it a break.”

However, not willing to be outdone, Emma swore to herself that she wouldn’t let the mother-daughter pair have their way and that she would make sure to make their life a living hell.

The next morning, the first ray of sunshine woke Vivian from her sleep.

She turned to look at Finnick who was still soundly asleep.

Everything about him was so perfect that her lips curled into a smile unknowingly.

But unexpectedly, Finnick, who was pretending to be asleep, suddenly put his hand on her shoulder.

Vivian was so embarrassed that she buried herself underneath the quilt. Following suit, Finnick pulled her into his arms and gave her a long, lingering kiss. He was just about to remove her clothes when he heard the woman say, “S-Stop it. Since we’re both today, how about we do something else?”

Thinking it was too much for her body to handle if they were to do it all the time, he reluctantly let her go and said softly, “It’s so sunny outside and it’s the weekend. How about I take you out for a walk?” Vivian gave it some thought and realized that she had never gone out alone with Finnick.

So… is this a date?

Vivian was feeling nervous inside, but more than that, she was excited as she nodded and said, “I’ll go and get ready.”

She walked toward the dressing table and stared at the table full of expensive makeup, feeling an imminent headache as she didn’t know how to begin.

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It’s our first date. I should at least put on nice makeup, right? But given my makeup skills, am I shooting myself in the foot?

Just as Vivian was in a quandary, she received a call from Harvey.

Vivian couldn’t help frowning.

But the caller was her father, after all, so she answered the call. “Vivian, I need you to come back to the Miller residence.” Harvey sounded anxious. “It’s urgent.”

This is one of the few times that Dad has taken the initiative to ask me to go home. What good could it come out of this? Is he in the mood for a family reunion? Obviously not. He’s calling me because he needs something.

“Maybe next time. I’m busy today,” Vivian said.

“Just come over, Vivian. The Miller residence is also your home,” Harvey said.

“Dad, since when is the Miller residence my home?” Vivian asked, feeling disgusted by her father’s words. “Speak no more. I’m not going back. At least, not today.”

“Vivian! I’m actually sick!” Harvey started coughing violently. “Just come and see me.”

Dad’s sick? He has weak lungs. Did the seizure of his company cause his health to deteriorate?

Vivian’s heart softened as she promised to visit him later. Hanging up, she looked apologetically at Finnick. “I’m afraid I can’t go out with you today. My dad seems to be seriously ill, and he insisted that I go back to see him.”

Finnick thought for a moment before saying, “I’ll go with you.”

Is it okay for him to come with me at this time? What if they have found out that Finnick was the one behind all this? Will they take him alive?

At Vivian’s hesitant look, Finnick said, “I must go with you. I’m worried about you.”

“Okay.” Vivian could only compromise.

Thereafter, Finnick gave Noah a call and told him to drive them there.

Arriving at the Miller residence, Vivian told Finnick and Noah to wait for her in the car. Finnick didn’t insist this time as he nodded and watched as Vivian got down from the car. “Mr. Norton,” Noah piped up after Vivian left. “Are we just going to let Mrs. Norton go in alone? What if it’s dangerous?”

“I’m not worried about that at the moment. They don’t have the guts to touch her yet,” Finnick said.

“Mr. Norton, do you really think this Harvey Miller is terribly sick?” Noah added. “I heard nothing about it. Is there another purpose that they called Mrs. Norton to the Miller residence?”

Finnick snorted, “In short, just know that they are up to no good.” Vivian knew at once that she was deceived when she saw Harvey, Ashley and Emma sitting in the living room. She was just about to leave when Ashley squawked, “Vivian! Leaving so soon? We haven’t even spoken yet.”

Vivian stopped in her tracks, reckoning that there was no escape today.

“Dad, didn’t you say you were sick? Looks like you’re okay now, so I guess I’ll go then,” Vivian said. Emma gave Ashley a look before walking up to her gleefully. “Oh, Vivian. There’s no such thing as an overnight grudge in a family. Come sit. Have some tea and dessert.”

What’s with Emma today? What’s with the kind gesture?

Vivian was scared silly as Emma forced her to sit on the sofa. “I heard you got married to Finnick Norton,” Emma said. “This is indeed a godsent marriage. Bring him home for dinner someday.”

They know that I’m married to Finnick? Ashley must have told them.

Vivian remained silent upon grasping the situation and their intentions.

Seeing that there was no reaction from Vivian, Harvey cut to the chase as he said, “Vivian, you have to help me this time. Ask Finnick to spare the Miller family. There’s no bad blood between us, right? So why take it so seriously?”

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They are such a bunch of hypocrites! Back in the day, they have been looking down upon me! I can’t believe they have the audacity to bring up such an absurd request in front of me!

Vivian sneered inwardly as she found them hilarious. She put on a calm front and replied, “I’m so sorry, but I have never poked my nose into Finnick’s business, and I have no intention to do so. Hence, I’m afraid I can’t be of much help.”

The faces of those from the Miller family darkened upon hearing Vivian’s reply.

Ashley was the first to bellow at her sister. “Vivian, how dare you forsake the wellbeing of your family members? Have you gotten full of yourself after becoming acquainted with an influential figure?”

Emma played along with her daughter and pretended to reprimand her. “Ashley! You’re not allowed to talk to your sister in such a manner! I’m sure she’s not such a cold-hearted person! I have faith in her, and I’m certain that she will do us the favor to repay the kindness we’ve shown her back in the day. Am I right, Vivian?”

Who are you to call me by my name? Stop making it sounds like we’re a family! Hearing them calling her name, Vivian almost puked from the sheer absurdity of the situation at hand. They’re nothing but a bunch of hypocrites!

Harvey stepped forward and begged, “Vivian, this is a matter of life and death! The entire Miller family is relying on you! Since Finnick is head over heels in love with you, I’m sure he will listen to you. Can you please tell him to let the Miller family off the hook for once? Please!”

Vivian raised her volume in return. “Dad, I told you before, I have never once poked my nose into his business. Even if I bring it up in front of him, I can’t be sure if he’s going to listen to me or not!”

“Vivian, I’m your biological father! Did you really think your mother would’ve been capable of bringing you up herself if it weren’t for the financial aids that I have provided you and your mother back in the day? If it weren’t for me, you would have long passed on due to starvation!” Harvey yelled hysterically as he could no longer keep his composure.

The initially irritated Vivian felt dejected all of a sudden because his father finally revealed his true colors in front of her.

Meanwhile, Harvey and Emma started bringing up everything that had occurred in the past.

They told Vivian she should appreciate their so-called kindness and get Finnick to let the Miller family off the hook for once.

Emma said, “When you were still young, I gave you a designer dress as a present! Ashley had merely put it on for a month before it was handed over to you! Do you recall the time others bought us a few Alaskan king crabs? We didn’t hesitate to share it with you! Have you forgotten the wonderful time we used to spend together as a family? How could you forsake us?”

A designer dress? Are you talking about the dress that Ashley got bored of? The only reason why you handed it over to me was that your daughter deemed it ugly! As for the crabs, you only allowed me to have my share because it was no longer fresh! Do you really consider that as sharing? I had an upset tummy for a few days because of you!

Vivian found them absurd because they had the guts to bring up their so-called act of kindness in front of her and demand repayment.

She said, “Stop trying to guilt-trip me, it will never work! I have never wanted to put on the dress, neither have I wanted to have my share of the stale crab back then! Most importantly, I have never desired to be a part of this family! Are you going to stay away from my mother and me once I return the favor? Are you going to let us live in peace in the future?”

Emma’s face puckered as she thought to herself, Never! I won’t let you off the hook just yet!

The moment Vivian recalled the incident she had gone through with her mother, she could feel her heart starting to ache.

Back then, in order to sustain their lives, Rachel would take up several jobs simultaneously, spending most of her time working to the point where she could barely get any sleep.

Because of that, Rachel had no choice but to leave the young Vivian with Harvey. Her long working hours made sure that she couldn’t take care of their daughter.

She instructed Vivian to behave herself and refrain from causing others’ trouble whenever she was at the Miller family’s place.

Vivian didn’t have to do any house chores when she stayed with Rachel, but once she started staying with those from the Miller family, Vivian had to do all sorts of chores under Emma’s supervision.

Being naive then, Vivian dared not voice out against the unjust she had to go through. She would keep everything to herself and cry herself to sleep in the night as she didn’t want her mother to be worried.

Harvey spent most of his time at the company, whereas Emma would bring Ashley to travel abroad. Vivian could vividly recall tagging along with the duo for their trips.

Rachel thought Vivian had a great time staying with those from the Miller family due to their lavish lifestyle. She thought Vivian had the chance to live a care life instead of having a pathetic childhood by her side.

As such, she told her daughter, “We have to rely on the Miller family for the time being because I can’t give you much, Vivian. I’m not a shameless woman, but I can’t possibly keep you by my side. Otherwise, you’re going to turn into a fool like me. Promise me you’ll be an independent woman in the future. I want you to live a wonderful life.”

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Vivian took note of her mother’s instructions and braced herself through all sorts of situations since she was a child. Although she seemed to be a fragile little girl, she was, in fact, a stubborn little girl who had never once relied on others.

Little did Rachel know whenever Emma brought Vivian along with them for their trips, Vivian was never allowed to have fun.

There was one time when Emma bought Ashley an ice cream and refused to get Vivian one. Instead, she simply instructed Vivian to get an umbrella to shield them from the sun.

Naturally, Vivian refused to give in to her stepmother’s demand.

In the end, Emma yelled at Vivian in the face, “Do you really consider yourself Ashley’s sister? Your sister is exposed to the scorching sun, yet you’re not willing to protect her? You’re such a little b*tch!”

Whenever Vivian tagged along with them for a trip, she would be treated as though she was a maid. Vivian spent most of her time alone, admiring Ashley as she had all sorts of fun with Emma.

Snapping out from her memory, Vivian watched as Emma went on and reprimanded, “Are you serious, Vivian? We took care of you when you were young! Is this how you’re going to repay us? Have you no shame at all? What about the expenses for your tertiary education? The Miller family was the one who footed the bill on your behalf! Do you think you’ll make it in life without the Miller family? How could you forget those whom you are indebted to?”

“Vivian, you can’t forsake the Miller family! Otherwise, I’ll commit suicide if anything were to happen to the Miller family!” Harvey warned Vivian.

Hearing their words, Vivian regretted being the beneficiary of the Miller family over the years. Others might deem her an unfilial and villainous woman should she refuse to do them the favor.

As she couldn’t make up her mind just yet, Vivian lost herself in the process of thought. Suddenly, those from the Miller family fell silent and had their eyes glued to something behind Vivian.

Following their gaze, Vivian turned around and saw Finnick wheeling himself in on his wheelchair.

Even though Finnick was wheelchair-bound, it didn’t seem to impact his majestic presence at all. In fact, it had become part of his identity as the almighty Mr. Norton.

From the moment he showed up, he had inadvertently become the most superior figure in the room.

Finnick surveyed the surroundings and noticed Vivian with her eyes brimmed with tears.

After Emma and Harvey exchanged glances, they were about to say something, but they hesitated due to Finnick’s domineering presence.

In the end, Harvey tried his best to form a complete sentence. “M-Mr. Norton? P-Please, do come in and join us…”

Meanwhile, Emma, who could always find her way around others, greeted with a bright grin, “Hello, Mr. Norton! Come on in and join us! We were merely catching up with Vivian. What brings you here today?”

Harvey couldn’t figure out the reason why Finnick had dropped by the Miller Residence.

I can’t believe it! Finnick has dropped by the Miller Residence! What brings him here today? Is he going to acquire the Miller family as part of the Finnor Group, or is he here to strike a deal with me?

Seeing that her husband had lost himself in the process of thought, just staring at Finnick in the eyes, Emma nudged her husband to snapped him out of his daze.

Harvey regained his composure and greeted, “O-Oh! Yes! T-That’s right! We were merely catching up with Vivian and reminiscing about the good old days! Although she had caused us a lot of troubles back then, she’s still part of the fam—”

Finnick broke the silence in a callous tone before Harvey could finish his sentence.

“I have heard the conversation.”

Finnick’s indifferent statement took Emma and Harvey by surprise because they couldn’t be certain which part of the conversation that Finnick had heard.

What exactly is he up to? Does that mean he isn’t here to strike a deal with me? Is he here for Vivian? Is he trying to protect Vivian?

Finally aware of the goal of Finnick’s visit, Harvey decided to cut the small talk and stated timidly, “Since you’re here, I’ll just cut straight to the point. Mr. Norton, please be merciful and let us off the hook for once. I heard you have gotten married to Vivian. If that’s the case, that means you’re my son-in-law. Since we’re a family, we can sort this out easily, right?”

Emma put on a superficial smile and played along with her husband. “He’s right! In the end, we’re a family! Vivian, you’re such a blessed woman to be able to marry Finnick! You should consider yourself lucky!”

Finnick was disgusted by the pretentious duo’s behavior, trying to flattering him when they had made all sorts of harsh remarks against Vivian just mere moments ago.

Earlier, he had been eavesdropping on the conversation at the entrance, but he could no longer resist the urge to rush to Vivian’s side when he saw that she was about to break down. Therefore, he was there to protect his beloved wife instead of reuniting with his so-called parents-in-law.

No one other than me gets to lay a finger or harass my wife!

Seeing that Finnick was on the verge of raging, Vivian stopped him in the nick of time. “Finnick! Don’t, please.”

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In return, Finnick frowned because he couldn’t believe Vivian would give in to the Millers and let them off the hook as requested. He gave it some thought and refused to give in just yet because he had never been known as a kind man.

Truth be told, his objective was to destroy the Miller family, giving them a taste of their own medicine. Unless they learned their lesson and had a taste of poverty, they would never learn to be merciful.

He lowered his gaze and stared at Vivian. The moment he noticed that her eyes had brimmed with tears, he could no longer suppress his frustration. “Vivian, are you sure you want to show them mercy? After all, they have been mistreating you throughout the years.”

Vivian had her own thoughts and methods to resolve the issue that had been bothering her for years. Instead of being merciful, she decided to take the opportunity and sever ties with the Miller family.

Indeed, she longed for vengeance against the Miller family. However, apart from getting rid of the grudge she had been holding against them, there was nothing else she could stand to gain. She could never move on from the Miller family as long as they were associated with one another. Since she had enough of them, she decided to bring everything to a halt.

Vivian turned around and looked at Emma and Harvey in the eyes as she announced, “Yes, Finnick! I want to let those from the Miller family off the hook!”

“Why?” Finnick asked as he was confused.

“Finnick, I don’t feel that I owe the Miller family anything. Instead, it’s Harvey that owes us! He was the one who forced himself on my mother against her will and brought upon our miseries! My mother conceived me due to his ignorant behavior, yet he had been neglecting us throughout the years. He has never once thought of us as his family member.”

Upon hearing Vivian’s statement, Harvey lowered his head in guilt because Vivian was right. He was the one who had been neglecting Rachel and Vivian.

Vivian continued, “All along, the Miller family has mistreated me, but I can’t possibly return the favor in a similar manner. Otherwise, I’m not much different from them. Finnick, please let the Miller family go. Instead of seeking vengeance, I want to live a peaceful life; a life without them.”

Emma was ecstatic upon hearing Vivian’s words. Grinning from ear to ear, she said, “You’re right, Vivian! You made the right call as part of the family!” She turned around and told Finnick, “Mr. Norton, I’m sure you will listen to her, right? We shouldn’t go against one another since we’re a family!”

Finnick cast a stern gaze and warned Emma, “Shut up!”

Intimidated by Finnick’s presence, Emma took a step back, moving away from him.

Meanwhile, Vivian chuckled when she heard her so-called stepmother’s statement. The woman had never considered Vivian and Rachel to be part of the family, yet she had the audacity to make such a statement in front of Finnick.

As a matter of fact, Emma and Ashley had always considered Vivian a thorn in their flesh. They deemed themselves superior to her and wouldn’t stop humiliating Vivian.

Throughout the years, the members of the Miller family, including the housemaids, looked down upon Vivian.

Vivian replied with a poker face, “A family? Have you ever considered me part of the Miller family? Am I supposed to express my gratitude for the so-called kindness the Miller family has shown me over the years? Is that how a family is supposed to treat one another? I don’t think so!”

“Vivian, I-I…” Harvey stuttered once again as he felt guilty.

As soon as Vivian finished her sentence, torrents of grief streamed down her cheeks unwittingly.

A typical father would take good care of their daughter as though they were the apple of their eyes, yet her father had never once thought of her as his daughter. Harvey had always been a wimp in front of Emma. He would turn a blind eye whenever Ashley took advantage of Vivian. Never had he shown Vivian some love.

If Dad had dropped by and visited Mom and me back then, perhaps things would turn out differently. Maybe Mom wouldn’t have to spend most of her time working several jobs, trying to sustain our lives at the cost of her health.

No one could possibly understand the hardships and tormenting experiences Vivian had gone through over the years.

She wiped her tears and repeated herself, “I’m returning the favor today by getting Finnick to let the Miller family off the hook as requested! From now onwards, I’m not part of the Miller family anymore! I believe all of you have been longing to sever ties with me, right? Since we’re no longer related, we should stay away from one another in the future! So please stop bothering Mom and me!”

Harvey had no intention of severing ties with her biological daughter, let alone severing ties with her after she had gotten married to such an influential figure.

It was evident Finnick was head over heels in love with Vivian. Therefore, Harvey was determined to use their relationship as leverage to achieve groundbreaking success.

Harvey informed Vivian, “Now, now, Vivian, aren’t you being a bit too rash? Although I might have let you down, you’re still my biological daughter—”

Emma cut her husband off and replied, “Fine! Vivian, your mother and you should have never shown up in our life in the first place! Both of you are the ones who have disrupted the peace of the Miller family! If it weren’t for you, the Miller family wouldn’t have—”

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Emma brought her speech to an abrupt halt the moment she detected Finnick’s penetrating gaze. In the end, she murmured to herself to express her frustration, “If it weren’t because of you, the Miller family wouldn’t have to go through this series of misfortune either! Hmph! How dare you think so highly of yourself?”

Finnick scoffed, “Does that mean the Miller family is unwilling to adhere to the condition Vivian has imposed?”

As soon as Emma and Harvey heard Finnick’s rhetorical question, they fell into the vicious cycle of despair yet again.

They stared at Vivian in the eyes, signaling her to beg Finnick for mercy.

On the other hand, Vivian was infuriated because Harvey and Emma had humiliated her in front of Finnick.

Harvey begged, “Mr. Norton, please give us another chance!”

He turned around and reprimanded his wife, “What are you waiting for? Hurry up and apologize to Vivian!”

Albeit reluctantly, Emma brought herself to beg for pardon. “Vivian, I’m sure you’re not going to take my words personally, right? Please, pay no heed to my words, I didn’t mean it.”

Emma could feel a chill down her spine as Finnick remained silent while glaring at her.

Immediately after Emma caught a glimpse of his penetrating gaze, she changed her tone and apologized again. “Vivian, I’m…”

She had a hard time apologizing because she couldn’t bring herself to cast her dignity as Vivian’s stepmother aside, but she was aware of the consequences of her action since Finnick had made himself clear. In the end, she had no choice but to apologize for the sake of the Miller family’s future. Otherwise, the lavish lifestyle she enjoyed the most would perish over the night should she refuse to apologize.

Finally, Emma muttered, “I’m so sorry, Vivian. Please forgive us for the things we have done to you back in the day.”

Even though Emma had apologized, Vivian wasn’t pleased because she was aware that her stepmother didn’t mean it.

Nevertheless, it was a miracle for Emma to admit her wrongdoings over the years.

I guess this is the best possible outcome… From now onwards, we’re no longer related to one another.

After Vivian made up her mind, she leaned over and told Finnick, “I’m tired.”

She was exhausted for real because she didn’t want to be around the bunch of hypocrites anymore.

Finnick’s heart wrenched when he noticed Vivian’s pair of swollen eyes. He felt a strong urge to teach the Miller family a lesson for offending the woman whom he loved wholeheartedly.

However, he resisted the urge to take things out on the Miller family because Vivian had made herself clear. As long as they stayed away from Vivian, he would honor his promise.

Finnick reached over and held Vivian’s frigid hand firmly. With his eyes glued to those from the Miller family, he warned, “I’ll let the Miller family off the hook this time for Vivian’s sake. However, I won’t hesitate to take all of you down if any of you repeat the same silly mistake.”

Harvey and Emma’s hearts skipped a beat. Standing right where they were, they dared not talk back against Finnick and Vivian.

Emma assured the duo, “Don’t worry! We’ll definitely stay out of your sight in the future! Ashley will behave herself as well. We won’t repeat such a silly mistake again. Haha.”

“You’d better remember your words! Otherwise, it’s going to cost you more than a fortune if you try anything silly in the future!” Finnick sneered.

Harvey and Emma’s legs turned to jelly, feeling as though they would pass out anytime soon, they could barely pull themselves together anymore.

Finnick had enough of the Miller family. He turned around and brought Vivian out of the Miller Residence.

The moment they stepped out of the Miller Residence, Vivian felt lightheaded because the whole situation seemed so surreal.

I guess it’s finally over, huh? From now onwards, I’m no longer related to Harvey and the Miller family. The torments that they have put me through don’t seem to matter anymore.

Mom is the only family member I have from today onwards… No, wait, there’s Finnick too.

Vivian felt warmth surging from deep within her when she recalled the existence of the two people whom she loved the most. She felt as though she had the strength to pick herself up once again.

Once they walked out of the Miller Residence, Finnick brought Vivian back to his car and instructed Noah to send them home.

Along the way, Vivian stared blankly ahead in a daze, she would occasionally lower her gaze and her eyes would well up with tears.

Finnick thought it was nigh time for Vivian to vent her frustrations. It was evident she could barely take it anymore after the series of confrontations she had gone through within a day.

In fact, she would have long broken down if she wasn’t a tough woman.

The Miller family is but a bunch of jerks! To think they would treat a fragile woman so cruelly… She must be feeling very sad now.

Finnick pulled Vivian into his arms and asserted, “Everything is over. Feel to cry if you want to, you’ll feel better that way.”

Leaning against his chest, Vivian felt a sense of security. She felt as though she had found a safe haven.

Sobbing, she released all her pent-up emotions from all the injustice that she had suffered. For once in her life, she could shed her tough shell and be vulnerable in front of the man she loved.

From the trauma and torment that she went through when she was young to the taunts and jeers that she received when she grew up, Vivian was relieved that it had finally come to an end. She could finally sever ties with those from the Miller family.

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Thankfully, she could finally rid herself of the influence from the Miller family.

Vivian felt as if a boulder had been lifted off her shoulder. She had no idea she had been bearing countless burdens by herself all this while.

Finnick sat by her side, holding her in his arms silently.

Once Vivian finished crying to her heart’s content, he lowered his gaze and asked, “Are you feeling better now?”

After Vivian nodded in return, he asked once more, “Are you willing to tell me about your past yet? I’m all ears for you. I believe this will help to take things off your mind as well.”

He kissed her on the cheek once he finished his sentence.

Vivian wiped her tears dry and started sharing her miserable past with Finnick.

“When I was young, the trio from the Miller family promised to bring me to the beach for a short getaway. I was thrilled because I had never been to a beach before. All I knew was that the ocean was blue with a horizon that would extend beyond the boundary.”

Finnick inched over and placed Vivian’s head on his lap, instructing her to lie and relax.

“I enjoy being by the beach because it gives me a sense of security. Back then, we dropped by the beach at Mauritius, which was a romantic place that I had been longing to go to for a long time. Mom wasn’t able to accompany me for the trip because of her work so she approved of the idea of me tagging along with the Millers. Initially, we had a great time as a family at the stunning beach, enjoying the gentle breeze. However, things took a drastic turn for the worse as soon as Ashley dropped her doll into the bottom of a pit. She threw a tantrum and insisted on retrieving the doll.”

Halfway through her orated statement, Vivian heaved a long sigh of despair because the upcoming part of the trip wasn’t as pleasing as the first part.

“Until now, I still have no idea if it was a mere accident or if she had deliberately dropped her doll as a way to get the better of me. I’m not accusing her but I could still vividly recall the vicious grin on her face when Emma instructed me to pick it up on her behalf. Emma said I was a skinny girl. Therefore, I was the best candidate available to retrieve the doll from the narrow pit.”

Vivian closed her eyes and recalled the entire incident she had gone through in Mauritius.

Tears started streaming down her cheek once again as she muttered, “I was afraid because I had never approached the ocean before. The boulders were covered with slippery seaweed and sharp seashells. I managed to make my way to the bottom of the pit and retrieved the doll, but as a result, I was wounded by the shells. You can still see the scars that I have gotten from back then…”

In fact, Finnick had noticed the scars that Vivian mentioned a long time ago.

Never would he expect there would be such a heartbreaking incident associated with the scars. All along, he thought she must have accidentally wounded herself when she was young, thinking that perhaps she was a playful girl.

Vivian added, “My wounds hurt because they were exposed to seawater, but Emma and Ashley ignored me and hailed a cab back to the hotel in advance. They said Dad was waiting for them to have their dinner together and left me alone. In the end, I had to make my way back to the hotel on my own.”

Vivian could still remember how she was starving and in pain due to the wounds, yet she had to pull herself together and walked a great distance to reach the hotel.

By the time she reached the hotel, they had finished their dinner. They didn’t even bother to keep their leftover meal for her. As such, Vivian spent the night starving.

She missed her mother after the series of misfortunate events she went through, but she put on a strong front and told Rachel she had fun when her mother asked if she enjoyed the trip. Vivian decided to lie because she was afraid that Rachel would be infuriated and feel upset should she figure out the truth.

Finnick’s eyes flickered. He lowered his gaze and was about to say something to comfort Vivian, but he had always been a man of few words.

In the end, he could only embrace her silently.

Once Vivian finished sharing her miserable past with Finnick, she asked, “Do you regret letting the Miller family off the hook?”

“Do you want to listen to the truth?” Finnick asked rhetorically before sharing his actual point of view with Vivian. It was evident he was displeased as he repeated himself in a callous tone. “I would’ve never promised you to let them off the hook if I was aware of the things you had to go through because of them. I would’ve taken them out without a second thought.”

Vivian was afraid Finnick would go against his words after he figured out the miseries the Millers had put her through. She warned him, “We have a deal! You can’t go back on your words now!”

He stared at her in the eyes before nodding to assure her. “Don’t worry. I’m a man of my words.”

Heaving a sigh of relief, Vivian lowered her head and leaned on Finnick’s sturdy chest once more.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 229

As she leaned on Finnick’s chest, Vivian heard his hoarse voice as he assured her, “As long as I’m by your side, I won’t allow anyone to bully you anymore. I’ll make up for the things you have never experienced as a child.”

Vivian giggled, “I don’t think that’s necessary because I’m already having a great time with you by my side. You’re the only one I need to have a great life.”

Thereafter, Finnick simply remained silent while running his fingers through her smooth hair.

Once they returned to the villa, Vivian finished her meal before taking her shower. After which she tucked in and called it a day.

After severing ties with the Miller family, Vivian felt as though she had been reincarnated. For the first time in forever, she slept soundly and peacefully.

Vivian went to bed early in the evening, while Finnick spent the entire night working in his study room.

Noah had everything sorted out and was about to leave when Finnick stopped him and queried, “How’s the preparation for the press conference going?”

“Everything is ready,” Noah nodded and informed.

“I want everything to be executed perfectly tomorrow,” Finnick emphasized.

“Understood.” Noah nodded once more and took note of his boss’ instruction.

The press conference for the newly established fund that would soon be set up by the Finnor Group was held the next day.

As such, Vivian and Finnick were roused from sleep early in the morning.

Finnick got changed into a set of formal wear. His outfit had a relatively simple yet elegant design. It perfectly complemented his noble and majestic presence as the one superior to others in the upper echelon.

Grinning unwittingly, Vivian had her eyes glued to the dressed-up Finnick.

“What are you grinning for?” Finnick asked when he noticed the bright grin on Vivian’s face through the reflection in the mirror.

“Nothing. It’s just that you look amazing!” Vivian didn’t bother to hold back her compliment at all.

In return, Finnick’s lips curved upwards, forming a smirk as he stated, “You should get yourself dolled up as well.”

Confused, she blinked and asked, “Me? That won’t be necessary since I’m merely a reporter. We’ve received the invitation from the representative of your company. My colleagues will be there as well.”

Ding-dong! Ding-dong!

Someone pressed the doorbell of the villa.

It’s so early. Who could it be?

Vivian rushed over to answer the door. The moment she opened it, a bunch of people with several boxes of equipment entered the villa.

She was surprised because she couldn’t figure out the goal of their visit.

“Good morning, Mr. Norton! Good morning, Mrs. Norton!”

Vivian’s eyes widened in disbelief. She turned around and asked Finnick, “What’s going—”

Sitting on his wheelchair, Finnick told the bunch of people, “Great, you’re here. I’ll leave my beloved wife in your care today then.”

Huh? What’s going on? Vivian couldn’t grasp the situation, she could only stare blankly as the bunch of people started unpacking the boxes they had brought along.

Items including cosmetic products, essential oils, and tailor equipment could be found. Other than that, Finnick had also prepared a dress and jewelry for Vivian.

Realization dawned on Vivian. they’re here to doll me up, similar to the time when I took part in the auction.

Damn! Not again! Vivian was never a fan of dolling herself up because she found the process tormenting.

They carried out their respective tasks, including putting make-up on her, polishing her nails, and styling her hair. After a short while, they finally had Vivian dolled up.

Feeling confused, Vivian asked, “What are you up to? Why did you have me all dolled up?”

“The press conference that will be held is crucial for the Finnor Group. Therefore, I want you to be part of the grand event of the group,” Finnick said.

Staring at Vivian in the mirror, he was in a state of reverie as she seemed exceptionally stunning.

However, Vivian thought that she looked comical and queried, “Huh? But I have to keep an eye on the conference as a fellow reporter. Why would I want to dress up ostentatiously?”

Just then, Finnick came up behind her and put on a heart-shaped diamond necklace on Vivian’s neck. It was a necklace with high clarity, making it exceptionally dazzling under the well-illuminated environment.

He told his wife, “Here’s a present for you. Consider it a gift for your hard work at the press conference. What do you think? Do you like it?”

Vivian nodded and said, “Of course! It’s such a stunning piece, but I think this is too expensive of a gift. I don’t think it’s suitable for me.”

“Just keep it, okay? No one other than you deserves to have this necklace.” Finnick finished his sentence in a serious manner.

She caressed the necklace over and over again. The fondness she had for the diamond necklace was increasing by the second because it was a gift from Finnick as a souvenir to express his affection.

Suddenly, Vivian recalled the crystal necklace Finnick used to have and wondered if he had moved on from it.

After enduring the tingling sensation on her face for an extended period, Vivian finally had herself dolled up ostentatiously.

She seemed to have changed into an entirely different woman. To match the tulle dress and the dazzling necklace she had put on, the stylist combed her hair into a ponytail, complementing the overall look.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 230

Vivian couldn’t stop checking on her appearance through the mirror as she found herself odd.

She had always preferred dressing up casually as she prioritized comfort over her look. Currently, she had all sorts of designers item on her. She started wobbling due to the pair of high heels she had put on.

In the end, she asked Finnick, “Are you sure it’s necessary for me to put on such a showy set of outfits?”

“Of course!” Finnick beamed his reply.

Fine. Since it’s what my husband wants, I guess I’ll go along with it.

Finnick would never allow his wife to take the public transport to work after he had gone to great lengths to doll her up. Therefore, he instructed Noah to drop her off at her workplace and got another driver to send him to the venue of the press conference.

The moment Vivian walked into the office building, her presence grabbed the attention of the men present. She lowered her gaze immediately and sprinted into the elevator.

The person in charge of the elevator scrutinized Vivian from top to bottom. Feeling uncomfortable, Vivian’s palms started sweating as she had never once attracted others’ attention before. In fact, it was the first time in a few years after she started working in this particular office building that she had inadvertently become the center of attention.

She regretted adhering to Finnick’s instruction because she couldn’t possibly get herself changed into another set of outfits. Since there wasn’t anything she could do about it, she braced herself and made her way into the magazine company.

Sarah, Jenny, and Ken were as busy as bees because they had to get everything ready before heading over to the venue of the press conference.

The moment Sarah spotted a noble-looking woman making her way into their office, she rushed over and greeted, “Hello, how may I help you?”

“Sarah, it’s me! I’m Vivian!” Vivian lowered her head and whispered because she was certain her colleague had mistaken her as a customer.”

“Oh. My. God!” Sarah shrieked involuntarily.

Everyone turned around the moment they noticed the commotion. They looked in the direction of Vivian and Sarah and thought Sarah had encountered a thief.

“Vivian? Is it really you?” Sarah gaped at Vivian in awe.

“Oh, my! It is you!”

“Vivian! You are looking absolutely stunning!”

Vivian’s colleagues couldn’t move their eyes away from her because she seemed different from her usual self. They were impressed by her noble-looking look and thought she must have some great news to share with them.

Some of her colleagues even thought that she had lost her mind and undergone a drastic change in personality over the night.

Sarah ran her fingers across Vivian’s dress. The moment she spotted the tag of the dress, she was taken aback yet again because it was a top-notch premium brand. In fact, the dress Vivian had put on seemed to be a custom-made piece. It would have cost at least hundreds of thousands. She couldn’t believe Vivian was dressed in such a mind-blowing piece.

“Wow! Vivian! I have come across this particular dress in the magazine! The dress of this brand cost a fortune! This is a custom-made piece, right?”

Vivian shrugged Sarah’s hand off immediately because she felt uneasy.

Just then, Sarah spotted the dazzling diamond necklace on Vivian’s neck.

She pointed at the necklace immediately and asked, “Vivian, is your necklace made out of authentic diamonds? If it’s an imitated one, I must say it’s a job well done!”

“Yes! It’s an imitated one! They did a great job, right?” Vivian got anxious and decided to go with the flow.

“Really? Did you get it from the internet?” Sarah probed further.

“Y-Yes, but I can’t really recall the name of the store anymore.”

Vivian’s colleagues were intimidated by her majestic presence. In their eyes, she emanated the presence exclusive to those from the upper echelon. They didn’t expect she would turn into an entirely different person after she dolled herself up, in fact, they had always perceived Vivian to be just another pretty woman.

Fabian, who had walked out of his office, was impressed the moment he caught a glimpse of Vivian’s ethereal look.

It was the second time he ran into a properly dolled-up Vivian. She seemed to have reincarnated into another woman. I still remember that the last time I saw her in a similar look, it was at the auction.

Suddenly, Fabian recalled the press conference for Finnor Group’s latest established fund would be held soon. Oh, so that’s why she’s all dressed up.

Nevertheless, he couldn’t figure out the rationale behind Vivian’s decision to dress herself up in such an ostentatious manner because he knew she had never been a fan of such a flamboyant look.

He had his eyes glued to her and thought she had changed drastically after getting into a relationship with Finnick. She had never been known for her beauty, but ever since she became Finnick’s wife, she had been stealing the limelight from others frequently.

Fabian felt upset when he realized that the innocent-looking Vivian, whom he was familiar with since their university days, was now nowhere to be seen. She had since moved on from her sprightly self.

Eventually, everyone, including Vivian, started tending to their respective tasks once again because the press conference would be held soon.

Once they had everything sorted out, Vivian, Fabian, Sarah, Jenny, along with a few cameramen departed to the venue of Finnor Group’s press conference.