Ch. 241..250

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 241

Yelling, she sprinted over to Vivian’s side and asked, “Vivian, did you check your Twitter? You have a hundred thousand followers as of now! You’re officially an influencer!”

Vivian was astonished by Sarah’s words because what she said was indeed a serious issue.

Immediately, she reached for her phone and logged in to her Twitter account. Indeed, Sarah was right. Overnight, she had turned into the person everyone in town talked about. In fact, the number of her followers continued to grow still.

There were all sorts of trending issues revolving around Finnick and Vivian’s marriage.

I can’t believe Mrs. Norton has shown up out of nowhere! I guess it’s over for me and my beloved Mr. Norton! Please excuse me as I spend the rest of my day crying myself to sleep!

Seriously? She seems to be an ordinary woman! Why? I’m so jealous!

I’m touched! Mr. Norton is such a loving husband! Why am I not the one by his side?

Huh? Impossible! Who the hell is she? How dare she lay a finger on my beloved Mr. Norton?

I shall love the one Mr. Norton loves! I love you, Vivian! I love you, Mr. Norton!

A chill ran down Vivian’s spine the moment she perused some of the comments because it was no simple task to be a public figure. She had turned into the most talked-about figure in town over the night. Literally, everyone was now aware of her identity as Mrs. Norton. How am I supposed to head out from today onwards? Are they going to cast rotten eggs in my directions when they run into me on the street?

Vivian gave it a thought, but she couldn’t think of a proper solution that could rid her of the issues that would be in store for her.

She was about to log out of her account when a particular comment from an account caught her attention.

Oh? They finally announced their relationship, huh? Does that mean Mr. Norton has moved on from the woman who had passed due to the fire?

The account had an odd username called “Back to the Past”. Vivian could recognize the said account because this particular anonymous user was the one who had brought up the existence of Finnick’s ex-girlfriend.

Vivian thought the anonymous user seemed to be different from the ordinary gossipmongers.

As such, she decided to visit the anonymous user’s account. She noticed the said user was one of her followers. Nevertheless, there wasn’t anything else that could indicate the anonymous user’s actual identity. In fact, the user had never posted anything else.

This is such an odd account. I wonder who’s the owner of this account. Why are they bringing up the accident that had occurred ten years ago? Could it be that they’re involved in the fire?

Not to mention this user followed my account? Are they merely a busybody that’s trying to find out more about my relationship with Finnick? Could the account be Yasmin’s account? Or perhaps it belongs to a hardcore fan of Finnick?

Just when Vivian lost herself in the process of thought as she looked through the thousands of comments by the netizens, Fabian suddenly summoned Vivian to meet him in his office.

Meanwhile, Vivian’s colleagues exchanged glances as they recalled Fabian had been in a foul mood since they made their way back from the press conference. They wondered what the duo would be talking about. Some of them thought Fabian might teach Vivian a lesson for the incident that had occurred during the press conference.

Vivian made her way into the office as instructed and took a seat opposite Fabian.

They sat opposite one another and remained silent for a few minutes.

In the end, Fabian stared at Vivian in the eyes and broke the silence. “Vivian, you seem to have turned into a public figure over the night. Has Finnick been treating you well lately?”

Vivian nodded in return.

“Vivian, are you familiar with Benedict?” Fabian added.

An image of a handsome man flashed into her mind. The man was Benedict and he was Evelyn’s brother.

“I have encountered him before. He’s Evelyn’s brother,” Vivian told Fabian.

“Is Finnick the one who introduced you to him?” Fabian leaned forward and asked.

“Yes. He has told me everything I should be aware of. Benedict was the one who had contributed his sister’s pen for the charity auction, right?”

Fabian was surprised to know that Finnick had been pretty frank with Vivian and that he didn’t hide anything from her. They seem to be serious about their relationship, huh? I can’t believe they’re taking one another seriously.

“Great. Since you’re aware of Benedict’s identity, it will be pretty helpful in the upcoming assignment. He will be holding an antique fair soon. I want your team to get ready for the upcoming interview session with him,” Fabian instructed.

An interview session with Benedict Morrison?

Vivian nodded in return and assured, “Alright. We’ll get ready as soon as possible.”

Since she showed up in his office, he had his eyes glued to her. She asked as she couldn’t get used to Fabian’s odd behavior, “Is there anything else? If there’s nothing else, I’m going back to work.”

After she finished her sentence, she turned around and was about to leave, but Fabian got up from his seat and stopped her.

“Wait! I have something to tell you!”

Hearing that, Vivian turned around and exchanged glances with Fabian. The moment their eyes met, she averted her gaze because she didn’t want to cause any unnecessary misunderstandings.

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“Vivian, are you serious about Finnick? Did you actually fell in love with him?” Fabian wondered.

Vivian was stunned for a moment for she didn’t expect Fabian would poke his nose into her personal affairs, bringing up the topic that was beyond his role as her supervisor in front of her.

“Mr. Norton, this has nothing to do with you, right?” Vivian asked rhetorically.

“Vivian, are you sure you’re not trying to deceive yourself?” Fabian walked over and approached Vivian. “The only reason you got married to Finnick was because of your mother, right? I won’t blame you for what you have done because that was the only option you had, but are you sure you want to spend the rest of your life with Finnick? Do you think things will work out between the two of you when it’s merely a political marriage?”

What is he talking about? I’m sure he has no idea I’m having the best time of my life!

Vivian gave it a thought and rebuked Fabian’s statement. “Mr. Norton, I believe you are not qualified to ask me these kinds of questions because it’s none of your business.”

“I’m the only one who cares about you, Vivian! Finnick is a cold-hearted man! When the time comes and he runs into another woman, he’ll cast you aside without a second thought! I’m his nephew! I know him better than you do! I’m telling you to stay away from him for your own sake!”

“For my sake? Fabian, please refrain yourself from badmouthing Finnick in front of me because that’s irritating me.” Vivian found Fabian’s statement absurd. He was about to get married to Ashley who was with his child, and yet he still had the time to poke his nose into Vivian’s marriage.

“Vivian, be rational about this and take my suggestion seriously, please.”

“Fabian, I’m pretty conscious of my current situation. You’re the one who should stay out of our way.”

Fabian’s heart sank to the bottom of his stomach at her words. He asked in a petulant manner, “Vivian, can you at least tell me if everything is fine on your end? How are you?”

Seeing that Fabian was back to behaving courteously, Vivian decided to return the favor and started being mindful of her choice of words.

She stated, “Since you’re so keen on figuring out our situation, I’ll tell you everything. I’m happy with my current life because we both share a similar level of affection for one another. Indeed, our marriage is considered a political marriage due to the different initial goals we each have in mind back then. However, things have changed since then, and we’re currently in love with one another.”

Fabian was astonished by Vivian’s statement; he didn’t expect she would share the affection she had for Finnick with him without any hesitation. Even though Vivian had made herself clear, Fabian still couldn’t move on from Vivian because he still had a thing for her.

“Are you sure you have fallen for him? Does that mean you’re going to spend the rest of your life by Finnick’s side?” Fabian asked with a pitiable look.

Two years ago, Fabian was the only man Vivian had in her mind.

However, their relationship took a drastic turn for the worse due to the misleading photos.

Vivian found Fabian absurd because he was the one who refused to have faith in her. Similarly, she had since moved on from him.

He was the one who had shattered her heart into pieces, yet he showed up in front of her and confronted her now that she had fallen in love with another man.

Vivian repeated herself in a serious manner. “I love Finnick wholeheartedly! He’s the only one I have in mind! Fabian, since Ashley is pregnant with your child, you should appreciate her and reciprocate the affection she has for you.”

Her words caused Fabian to feel dejected. So, she wants me to take another woman seriously and forget about her… He was jealous of Finnick because Vivian had verbally announced the affection she had for him without a second thought. Why does it sound as though you have changed into another person? Vivian, who are you now?

Truth be told, Fabian was impressed by Finnick’s bold move. Literally, every woman would fall for him after he had gone to great lengths to prove his affection.

Finnick did it. He successfully conquered Vivian’s heart.

“Fabian, we’re nothing more than ex-course mates. You have set foot in the territory of my life which you should have stayed away. Allow me to remind you once again that you’re going to get married to Ashley in a few weeks.”

“Vivian, I wasn’t given any choice! She’s pregnant with my child! Hence, we have to get married!” Fabian tried his best to explain the reason behind their marriage.

Does that mean Fabian isn’t serious about Ashley? Appalled by the truth, Vivian couldn’t help but sympathize with the pathetic duo because she was afraid their marriage wouldn’t last forever since they had gotten married to one another due to the child.

Fabian stretched his hands in an attempt to reach Vivian’s shoulders. “You’re the only one I have in my mind, Vivian! I have been missing you day and night all this while! I hate it whenever the thought of you spending a night by another’s man side crosses my mind! There’s literally nothing I can do to turn the tables! Vivian, can you please return to my side? Why don’t we start a new journey together in another city?”

As Vivian thought it would be better for her to stay away from Fabian, she took a step back before Fabian could place his hands on her shoulders.

“Fabian, I’m sorry, but I’m not in love with you anymore. You have to bear the consequences of your action since Ashley has conceived your child. Please move on from our relationship and let bygones be bygones. Stop lying to yourself and face the truth,” Ashley stated.

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Vivian’s words triggered Fabian’s instinct as a fellow man. He refused to give up just yet and dashed over to her side, holding her firmly in between his arms.

“Vivian! No! You’re not allowed to do this to me! Please!”

As Fabian had gone overboard, the memory of him kissing Vivian against her will flashed back in her mind. In the next second, she pushed the man away with all her might and slapped him in the face.

The moment Vivian broke , she fled, running out of Fabian’s office as soon as possible, leaving the dejected man behind in his office.

All of a sudden, Fabian was engulfed by a strong sense of despair. Is she rejecting me because of Finnick?

Vivian, by the time you get in touch with Benedict, he’ll unveil the harsh truth to you! You’ll finally get to know Finnick’s true colors! He has always been a selfish man! It’s time for you to learn that I’m the only one who’s serious about you!

Fabian was looking forward to Vivian’s and Benedict’s meeting.

Suddenly, he received a call.

The moment he picked up the call, the person on the other end told him they had gotten words on Finnick’s latest plan.

They told him Finnick had dispatched his men to go after the truth behind the photos and the particular incident that had occurred two years ago.

I knew it! Finnick would never stop going after the truth until he gets to the bottom of the incident! He wants to figure out the identity of the mastermind who had drugged Vivian before!

If he insists on going after the truth, he’ll soon figure out that Ashley was the one behind the entire incident. I’m pretty sure he won’t let her off the hook anymore. She may have to go through the incident which she had gone through as a member of the Miller family once more.

“He’s not aware of your presence, is he? I want you to remove all traces of your visit as soon as possible. We can’t allow Finnick’s men to figure out we dropped by. Am I clear?” Fabian delivered his instructions.

The person on the other end of the call said, “Yes, Mr. Norton. I’ll try my best. I’ll get in touch with you again soon.”

Although Fabian was infuriated because Ashley had driven him apart from Vivian back in the day without any solid reason, he couldn’t possibly forsake her wellbeing since she was pregnant with his child.

If Finnick managed to figure out Ashley was the mastermind who had instructed others to drug Vivian two years ago, he would certainly bring hell upon the Miller family through every method at his disposal. Ashley might even die a miserable death.

Fabian was aware of the consequences that would be in store for his fiancée. However, he didn’t want his child to bear the consequences of his mother’s actions. He wanted his child to grow up in a complete family.

Once he made up his mind, Fabian told his men to get rid of the evidence and leads that might lead to Ashley. He secretly hoped he could get in Finnick’s way and stop him from getting to the bottom of the incident.

In the meantime, on the other end of Sunshine City.

Finnick, who had returned to Finnor Group, summoned Noah to meet him in the president’s office as he couldn’t wait to figure out the progress of the investigation.

“It has been quite some time since the investigation started. Have you figured out the mastermind behind the incident two years ago yet?”

Noah had an odd expression because he had yet to accomplish the instruction that Finnick had delivered him.

Knitting his eyebrows, Finnick asked with a serious look, “What’s wrong? Does that mean you have yet to get to the bottom of the incident?”

Knowing that there were still a lot of mysteries that had yet to be unveiled, Noah decided to tell Finnick the truth, “Mr. Norton, we found some leads, but someone seemed to have gotten in our way and disrupted the progress of the investigation. There were a lot of leads that had been wiped out of existence deliberately.”

Finnick’s brows scrunched up in confusion and a wave of irritation surged within him as he wondered who had the guts to get in the way of the investigation.

“What have you gotten your hands on? When did you discover that the leads had been wiped out of existence?”

“We managed to discover the presence of a certain someone. Apart from Vivian and Fabian, she had frequently shown up on the campus.”

“Who is it?”

“Ashley Miller.”

“Ashley?” Finnick gave it a thought and ruled out the possibility of Ashley being the mastermind. After all, she was Vivian’s sister. Despite the animosity Vivian and Ashley have for each other, Finnick felt that Ashley would never actually hurt her sister.

“Is there anything else?” Finnick wondered.

“That’s everything we manage to gather as of now, Mr. Norton. Seems like the person is giving their all in hindering us from getting to the bottom of the truth,” Noah replied.

Someone is preventing us from getting to the bottom of the truth? Why? How is the mastermind conscious of our plan? Is the mastermind a close acquaintance of mine?

Finnick couldn’t figure out the relationship between the incident that had occurred two years ago and the goal of the mastermind who had been getting in his way. Since Vivian and I weren’t acquainted two years ago, I doubt I’m the one the mastermind is coming after. But If that’s the case, why is the mastermind getting in our way then? Perhaps they’re aware of our relationship? Is that the reason why they wished to sow discord amongst Vivian and me?

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He asked Noah, “Do you know who they are?”

“No, but I guess the forces behind them aren’t small. There must be a powerful network behind them.” Noah replied.

Finnick was feeling more and more puzzled.

Vivian was just an ordinary college student two years ago. How did she come across people in such strong forces? Even Fabian wouldn’t provoke these people then.

Immediately, Finnick instructed Noah to eliminate any difficulties in the way and continue investigating until the truth of the matter was revealed.

Whoever dares to lay a hand on Vivian, I’ll never let them off the hook easily.

Meanwhile, Vivian and the others were ready to set off for the interview with Benedict.

Unfortunately, the magazine company’s vans were all in use so they could only take a cab to get to their destination.

Vivian was hailing a cab along the street when a speeding one stopped in front of them.

A middle-aged man with an average look sat in the driver’s seat and he was extremely excited when he saw Vivian.

“Mrs. Norton! You must be Mrs. Norton, right? Hop on. Where are you guys going? I’ll drive you there.” Said the driver.

Sarah and the others were stunned. “Vivian! Well well… Even a cab driver knows who you are.”

Ken had already gotten into the cab and was urging them, “Come on, stop chatting, will you? Get in the car.”

Vivian took the front passenger’s seat.

Her body itched when she felt the driver studying her from the corner of his eyes.

“You’re the wife of Finnor Group’s president, aren’t you? Don’t you have any chauffeur?” The driver asked.

Vivian gulped before replying, “Yes, I am. We’re heading to the city’s cultural center.”

“To the antique fair?”

“You know about the event?” Sarah asked.

The driver smiled and said happily, “Of course. Cab drivers know everything. This antique fair is rather special and it’s kind of interesting, so it’s worth your time to go take a look.”

Ken and Sarah felt extremely excited upon hearing his words. They started chit-chatting with him by asking all sorts of questions.

Vivian however, couldn’t wait to reach their destination.

She finally heaved a sigh of relief when they arrived and got off the car.

Only a day had passed but it seemed like the whole city could recognize her now. This is terrifying. It’s like a nightmare.

Ken suggested that they should get some drinks from the mini-mart before entering. Vivian instantly volunteered and said that she would treat them.

In the mart, she began choosing the drinks.

However, she got a feeling that a pair of eyes were staring at her from behind.

Turning, she noticed the shop assistant was watching her. Does she think I’m stealing? Vivian was displeased at the thought of it.

Finished choosing the drinks and some snacks, she put on a somber look and walked to the cashier for payment.

Not noticing Vivian’s expression, the shop assistant greeted her with a grin, “Mrs. Norton, it’s such an honor to have you shopping at our mart.”

Gosh, someone recognized me again. I could die of embarrassment!

The shop assistant stretched her neck and looked around, seemingly searching for something.

Vivian followed her gaze but saw nothing.

“Isn’t Mr. Norton here?” She asked.

Vivian was rendered speechless. The famous Mrs. Norton shook her head, “I’m here for a work matter at the antique fair.”

“Oh.” The younger woman seemed disappointed upon hearing her words.

When Ken and Sarah saw Vivian exiting the mini-mart with those paper bags on hand, they asked, “Vivian, what took you so long? The fair started 10 minutes ago.”

“Ugh, don’t even bring it up. The shop assistant recognized me. It’s terrifying.”

The colleagues exchanged a smile.

Vivian knew Finnick was an influential man, but she didn’t know it was to this extent. Only when she experienced it herself did she know what a big wheel her husband was. His nonchalance was the reason he was able to keep it all together.

They soon arrived at the exhibition hall of the antique fair.

Benedict was explaining the history of an ancient ceramic vase to a client when Sarah spotted him with just one look.

“Oh my God. Is he real? He’s not some character from the comic, is he? Look at how perfect he is!” Sarah admired.

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Ken on the other hand, was in a contradictory position when he saw Benedict. “Wow. He is indeed beautiful… Gosh! How are we average-looking guys going to live? We’re single because of all these rich hunks!”

“That’s enough. One of you is being a lovestruck idiot while another is being a cynic. C’mon, let’s get to work.” Vivian said.

Spotting Vivian and her group waiting for him from afar, Benedict excused himself from his client and walked towards them.

He was wearing a white shirt with black stripes. The cologne he wore tickled their senses, and their mood unconsciously lightened.

Benedict’s eyes glimmered as he grinned at them.

Sarah was dumbstruck at the sight of him.

He had slender and clean fingers, with a great figure and tidy hair. Everything about him gave off a temperament of a royalty.

“Vivian? It’s really you! Hello.” Benedict politely greeted her as he extended his hand.

Vivian shook his hand while saying, “Hello, Mr. Morrison.”

His charming and melodious voice improved people’s moods. Unlike Finnick who always sounds toneless when he speaks.

“Yes, it’s me, Mr. Morrison. We, from Glamour Magazine, are here to interview you. Thank you for accepting our invitation. I must apologize for being rude to you at the auction last time.”

Benedict smiled and his eyes formed two beautiful crescents, making him look cute.

“I’m old friends with Fabian, so of course I have to do him this favor. But I never expected him to send you for this interview. How interesting.” He said.

Benedict knows Finnick. Naturally, he knows Fabian as well.

The Morrison family was one of the three most prominent families in Sunshine City. The Morrison family, Jackson family, and Norton family were all related somehow as they had business dealings with each other and they had supported each other’s business for many generations.

Antiques were the Morrisons’ main business. Their business extended beyond the country and they were well known in Sunshine City. The ancestors of the Morrison family were scholars. They were all knowledgeable when it came to history and antiques. That made them very influential in the industry.

The Norton family had a military background, so the desire for control and domineering people flowed in Finnick’s blood, giving him the temperament of a tough man. If not for his legs, Vivian had a feeling that he could definitely fight on the battlefield.

On the other hand, The Jacksons had always been in the business world. They had a share in almost every industry, including real estate, F&B, etc.

Before the interview, Vivian dug up some information about Benedict so she knew the situation with the Morrison family in recent years.

Both Benedict and Evelyn lost their parents at a young age. They had relied on each other since then. The former also had to mature in his youth as he needed to support the family business and take care of his young sister.

However, a fire ten years ago took the life of his only family, Evelyn. He must’ve been devastated when that happened.

Now, Benedict was the only Morrison left, supporting the family alone. Rumors had that the glorious moment the Morrison family enjoyed was coming to an end and that it couldn’t be compared to the past anymore.

However, Vivian thought otherwise. Things with the Morrison family might be deteriorating for now, but she felt that Benedict was a wise man and that he could get through this ordeal.

After all, a starved camel was bigger than a horse. Putting those thoughts away, Vivian started the interview.

“Mr. Morrison, may I ask you some questions about the antique fair? These objects are obviously aged. Are there any stories you can share with us?” Vivian asked.

Benedict glanced at her before speaking softly, “It’s not really convenient to conduct the interview here. Come on, let’s head to my office.”

Sarah snapped out of her daydream and said quickly, “Alright! Mr. Morrison, that’s really considerate of you. You’re unlike other presidents who always pull a long face and act cool. You must be feeling the coldness in the hall and are afraid that we’d be zing, right?”

Benedict turned to look at Vivian upon hearing Sarah’s words. Other presidents who always pull a long face – Why does it sound like Finnick…

Vivian hung her head awkwardly.

The corner of his lips tilted upwards as he found her action cute. He didn’t hate her. But because of Finnick, he felt a slight resentment towards her.

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“It’s truly creative of Fabian to make you conduct this interview. Alright then, I’ll try my best to answer all your questions, but under one condition. I’ll allow only you to interview me. Can your colleagues go take some photos of the fair and help publicize it?” He asked.

Sarah and Ken were a little disappointed, but they slowly made their way to the hall.

Vivian thought about it for a moment. Benedict wasn’t a person they could invite so easily. Since he had said so, she could only agree. Both of them then headed to his office.

There was a coffee machine in the office. Not long after he poured some coffee beans into it, the office was filled with the aroma of coffee.

“You like coffee?” Benedict asked.

“How did you know?”

“I guessed.” He replied.

In truth, Benedict had investigated Vivian, so he knew almost everything about her.

While she was still pondering over his words, he suddenly asked her some questions.

Placing the freshly brewed coffee in front of her, he said, “I added some milk in it, it’s good for your body. After being with someone like Finnick for so long, you’ll need something warm and sweet.”

Fine, maybe Benedict is right. But that’s what he sees on the surface. Finnick is always cold in other people’s eyes, but I could feel his warmth all the time.

Perhaps that’s how he treats someone he loves and someone he doesn’t.

“Vivian, why did you marry Finnick? Was it for money, reputation, or status?” Benedict questioned her bluntly.

Urghh, he’s like everyone else. Despite the beautiful features he has, he seems to be an elusive person.

“Mr. Morrison, your question does not have anything to do with the interview today. These are my personal matters, and I refuse to answer that.”

Vivian didn’t want to discuss her relationship with Finnick with outsiders as it was the agreement and secret between the two of them. Even the elder Mr. Norton didn’t know about it.

She continued, “I know you don’t have a good impression of me because of Finnick. However, I’m here today for an interview for the antique fair. This is a great PR opportunity for Morrison Group. Who knows? Maybe the share price would increase.”

Benedict flung up his hands as he said, “No, no. It’s not like what you’re thinking. I don’t dislike you. I was just reminding you to be careful when it comes to cold and heartless men like Finnick. You need to prepare yourself that he would abandon you ruthlessly one day, just like how he did to Evelyn.”

Vivian finally understood. She knew now why Benedict was always giving Finnick the cold shoulder, and why he was always cynical to her. So he couldn’t get over his sister’s death. He had always misunderstood Finnick.

She said to him, “Mr. Morrison, you’ve misunderstood him.”

“Misunderstand? Vivian, you’re really naïve. Everyone knows about the fire. Am I the only one who misunderstood him? Don’t be deceived by Finnick. Wise up and divorce him at your soonest. Leave that evil man!”

Leave Finnick? How could I do that? I’ve always trusted him. I know he wouldn’t lie to me.

Benedict added, “He was able to abandon Evelyn and run away just to protect his own life. Do you think he wouldn’t do that to you, someone he met by chance? What if both of you are in a life-threatening situation? Do you think he would put you before himself? Or show his love for you and say that he loves his wife? Vivian William, you’ve got to wake up from your dreams!”

Benedict’s words sounded like Finnick was such an unbearable man, as if the latter was a dirty bastard. Vivian found it unfair to Finnick as Benedict was accusing him of something that hadn’t been concluded.

She insisted, “Mr. Morrison, you really did misunderstand him. Finnick didn’t abandon Evelyn. It was she who told him to leave the place and get help from other people. He didn’t escape out of selfishness. He had been so upset because of this incident. Besides, he keeps all Evelyn’s stuff in great condition. He doesn’t even let me touch them. Your sister is always in his heart, and it will be forever.”

“Forever.” Benedict couldn’t help but feel sad at the mention of Evelyn.

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“That’s right. A dead person can’t be brought back to life. So, could his love for you last forever? Vivian, it wasn’t really wrong of him to run away and left Evelyn. No one should risk their lives for someone else anyways. But I just hate that he wouldn’t admit it.”

Vivian quickly explained, “Sometimes the truth that everyone believes in might not be real. Why can’t all of you leave Finnick alone? Why should he be held accountable for something he didn’t do, Mr. Morrison?”

“Just call me Benedict. Cut that pleasantry.” He said.

“Fine. I understand that you’re devastated, Benedict. Even though I’ve never met Evelyn, I know she must be beautiful and was very likable. I also know that she must’ve loved Finnick very much. So I believe that she would’ve wanted him to live on. I would do that too if I were her. I don’t believe Finnick would abandon her. If that was the truth, then Evelyn and I have really bad tastes in men.”

Benedict studied Vivian. I see. This woman really loves Finnick. She has already fallen too deep, just like how Evelyn was.

The brother had warned Evelyn countless times that she shouldn’t get too close to Finnick, and that she must never fall for him. But Evelyn liked the man so much. She even sacrificed the prime of her life for him…

“Don’t exonerate him. You’ve only been with him for a few days. Do you think you know him well enough? I’ve known him for more than twenty years. I know him better than you do.”

Vivian knew she wouldn’t be able to clear up the conflict that had been going on for so many years. So she changed the topic, “You really love your sister, don’t you? You two must have a good relationship.”

Upon hearing her words, sorrow flashed through Benedict’s eyes. He would always think of the times he spent with Evelyn in the park when they were younger whenever he thought of her.

She would always follow him around, but he found her annoying and wouldn’t want to play with her.

It wasn’t until his parents had passed away did he realize she’s all he had. Evelyn was still so young, she needed someone to protect her. Only then did he see the responsibilities he held by.

Benedict explained, “My parents passed away more than ten years ago. Evelyn was my only family member.”

Vivian was feeling sad too.

She wanted to get down to business and interview Benedict about the antique fair, but he didn’t want to continue anymore.

“Alright, let’s end our conversation here. I’ve already said what I have to.” He said, making it clear that it was time for her to leave.

But I haven’t completed the interview for the magazine company! I can’t leave just like that.

She quickly tried, “Mr. Morrison, may I ask you a few questions about the antique fair? We won’t talk about anything else, alright?”

A hint of smile appeared at the corner of Benedict’s eyes, a mocking one, as if the words she just said were ridiculous.

“Do you really think Fabian sent you to interview me because of the antique fair? You’re truly naive, you know? No wonder Finnick could get you eating out of his hands. You kind of had it coming.”

What does he mean by that? If the reason isn’t because of the antique fair, then what is it? Are Fabian and Benedict on the same side? So many question marks popped up in Vivian’s head.

Benedict continued, “Or maybe you already knew what kind of person Finnick really is. You just wanted the title of Mrs. Norton and the benefits you could get from it, right? Vivian, you must have a great deal of patience to be able to tolerate someone as cold as Finnick.”

Benedict’s words were too rude and Vivian couldn’t stand it anymore. Well, there really isn’t any point of interviewing him anymore.

She didn’t even take a sip of the coffee he made as she stood to leave.

The man added before she left, “You better watch out, Vivian. Think about what I said. Don’t regret it in the future and blame me for not warning you.”

The interview ended with an unpleasant atmosphere.

Vivian looked listless as she made her way home.

She didn’t get to finish her interview, nor did she get to ask him any of the questions she prepared, but she was chastised by Benedict instead.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 248

The moment she reached home, Finnick was reading a magazine on the couch.

At the sight of her, he asked, “You’re early today.”

“Oh, there was an interview this afternoon. I came straight home after that.” Vivian answered half-heartedly.

She stared at the back of Finnick, thinking if she should ask him about the fire.

After hesitating for a moment, she couldn’t resist but ask, “Finnick, you found out information about me being framed two years ago. Didn’t you or grandpa investigate the kidnapper from the incident back then?”

Vivian thought that if they could find the abductor, maybe they could find out how Evelyn died. That way, Finnick wouldn’t have to suffer from all the insults anymore.

Then the emotional entanglement in Benedict’s heart would be unraveled. Maybe he could even make up with Finnick. Both of them used to love Evelyn after all.

Finnick asked curiously, “Why do you ask suddenly?”

“I-I was just curious.”

Finnick asked her to sit beside him as he said, “I found him, but…”

His voice trailed off.

In fact, Finnick had found information about the incident, but he didn’t want to tell Vivian about it.

He didn’t mean to hide it from her, but he didn’t want to drag her into this matter and put her in danger.

“Why did you ask?” Finnick replied with a question instead.

After hesitating for a second, she gritted her teeth and grabbed hold of Finnick’s hands. Her eyes staring into his, “I just don’t like it when other people misunderstand you. They keep saying that you abandoned Evelyn.”

Finnick furrowed his brows tightly together.

What exactly did she go through today? Did people leave mean comments online? Is that why she gets emotional and wants to set the record straight? Or is there some other reason?

“Don’t worry,” He said while holding her hands. “I’ll find out whatever I can by all means, but now isn’t the right time.”

Finnick’s answer was rather ambiguous but Vivian trusted him, so she nodded and stopped questioning him.

The next day when she was about to get to work, Finnick offered to send her to the office.

In the car, he suddenly dropped a question, “Did anyone at the magazine company pick on you when your identity was revealed?”

She shook her head and answered, “Nope. When they found out that I’m the president’s wife, they couldn’t wait to butter me up. Guess what? I got recognized at the antique fair yesterday. It’s so embarrassing! It feels so weird and I’m not used to it at all.”

Finnick felt relieved that no one was causing her any trouble. After all, he had made lots of enemies and also fans all these years. He was afraid that Vivian would be in danger.

He stopped the car at the entrance of the magazine company and Vivian got down from the car.

After she left, Noah reported, “Mr. Norton, Mrs. Norton was still in the car earlier so I didn’t say anything. I’m getting close to finding out who framed her two years ago, but I still need some time before the truth becomes clear.”

Even though there were some hurdles, it was obvious that the group of people hindering him weren’t a match for Finnick. Although Noah took a longer time, he was getting closer to the truth.

Satisfying, Finnick said, “Good job. Look into every clue you find. I’ll be waiting for good news.”

The assistant was naturally happy when he received encouragement from his boss.

He added, “Also, about the girl who saved you ten years ago. The dress she wore was limited edition, only ten people in Sunshine City bought it. As long as we could retrieve the customer list and rule them out one by one, we’ll be able to find her.”

Finnick nodded. “Do your best and get to the bottom of it.”

He couldn’t wait to find out about the person who set Vivian up and show gratitude to the little girl who saved his life.

Meanwhile, at the magazine company’s lobby, Vivian was welcomed by multiple people’s gazes. Whatever. I’ll just slowly get used to my life as Mrs. Norton.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 249

Vivian was in a good mood even though the interview yesterday didn’t go well.

She was humming a song as she made her way to the office when Sarah rushed to her anxiously. The latter shouted, “This is bad! Something’s happened!”

At the sight of her colleague’s expression, Vivian knew something serious must have happened. Are they closing down the company?

Since Vivian was still kept in the dark, she asked in confusion, “What’s wrong, Sarah? What happened?”

Sarah stammered as she didn’t know how to break the news.

“Come on, Sarah. I’m starting to panic here.”

The expression in Sarah’s eyes told Vivian that it had something to do with her.

After some hesitation, the former said, “Vivian, take a look at Twitter. The feed is blowing up! But try not to get angry after you see it.”

Vivian couldn’t guess what was it about, but it didn’t seem like something good. Otherwise, why would the normally blunt and straightforward Sarah be so hesitant?

She quickly opened up her Twitter and instantly froze when she saw the trending topics.

They were all about her.

Vivian William is so shameless!

Exposing Vivian William.

True colors of Mrs. Norton.

What’s going on?

Tapping on one of the topics, it was all about her personal details. Those media personalities had exposed her privacy!

It went from her graduation photos from when she was young, and her origins, family, grades from her school days to the clubs she attended…

The post also included the information of her being the Miller family’s illegitimate daughter and the rumor of her selling her body in school from two years ago.

Everyone was saying that Vivian was a love child and Rachel was a mistress who was a destructive third wheel in someone else’s marriage. It was said that Vivian’s time in university was very improper. She had slept with countless men. They deemed her a dirty woman and wasn’t suitable for Finnick.

She paled upon realizing the severity of the matter.

The rumors from more than two years ago finally subsided but it was made public again. Everything sounds so real. How am I going to face other people from now on?

Besides, it was fine if she was the only one affected. But she had Finnick now. How would he be able to hold his head high again when there are rumors like this about his wife?

Vivian was completely stunned on the spot.

It felt like she had been stripped naked and was standing in front of a crowd while they criticized and made fun of her.

Everyone was throwing accusations and insults at her. There were posts and comments talking about her mother being a shameless mistress, and that she was a shameless gold-digger.

But these are not the truth!

I’m innocent! What happened two years ago wasn’t like what they had described at all.

Not only that, but my mom is also innocent too! She is the victim there! The ones who should be judged and criticized are Harvey and his family.

Vivian felt her vision darkened.

“Vivian, are you okay? You don’t look good.” Jenny asked.

Obviously, Jenny knew what had happened too.

Mom and I are probably the only ones kept in the dark about this. The look in everyone’s eyes gave Vivian the answer she needed.

Her heart sank as she answered, “I’m fine, Jenny.”

She sounded weak and her voice was soft. She didn’t have the energy to think about other stuff anymore.

The office was abnormally quiet with only the sounds of keyboards clicking away.

Luckily, Shannon said that she wouldn’t be back till noon since she’s off for an interview. Otherwise, Vivian wouldn’t be able to stand it in the office. The words from that woman’s mouth could kill someone.

Vivian tried hard to not be affected by the posts on Twitter. But she couldn’t help but take another look.

As time went by, rumors continued to fester.

There were even chat histories on Twitter, titling as ‘Those Who Are Involved’. The exaggerated contents were obviously slandering Vivian. Everything was blunt and absolutely unkind.

They were shared and reposted countless times, with different types of opinions popping up on the feed.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 250

How could an illegitimate child be worthy of the president of Finnor Group? Isn’t that too absurd? Class dismissed!

Mrs. Norton’s background is so strange. No wonder Finnick wants to keep it a secret. Not only is she an illegitimate child, but her mother is also a disreputable woman. Finnick, you have been deceived!

Finnick’s mother-in-law is a shameless homewrecker. Both mother and daughter are skanks!

What a b*tch. She was even selling her body during her university days. That’s utterly shameless.

I knew her when I was in university, and she was a whore back then. She’s a dirty woman who goes around hooking up with men.

Vivian bit her lip and held back her tears.

There was an online video of an unknown person interviewing Vivian’s former university classmates.

Anonymous man: You were Vivian’s university classmate and also the class monitor. You should know her quite well then. Is she the type who sleeps around as rumored online?

Class monitor: Hm… It’s been so many years, so why bring it up again? Anyway… I better stop talking. I wouldn’t want to offend anyone. All I can say is she has a bad reputation.

Anonymous man: It looks like you are afraid to speak the truth, but I can tell that there’s more to that. We’ve found a few more classmates. Do you think they will tell the truth?

Classmate: There was a scandal back then, and many people knew about it. There were rumors that she slept around with many men.

Classmate: It seemed like she had a boyfriend. But he later found out that she slept around, so he broke up with her and went abroad. That’s all I know.

What happened two years ago came back to haunt her again. Once more, she was thrown back into hell.

She remembered how she felt those days when her classmates and lecturers looked at her disdainfully and spewed harsh words at her. Right then, she was overwhelmed by that terrible feeling again.

Had she not thought of her mother back then, Vivian would have taken her own life. But now, the scandal had resurfaced, attacking her ruthlessly until she could no longer muster the strength to fight back.

Tears were falling down her cheeks like a broken string of pearls. Vivian’s heart wrenched in pain as though she was being punched in the chest.

Muffling her cries, she ran all the way out of the office and headed to the washroom. She locked herself in a cubicle and sobbed uncontrollably.

Ken stood up and looked at Vivian’s empty desk, then he said to Sarah, “Was she crying?”

Sarah replied impatiently, “Shut up and get back to work.”

Deep down, Sarah knew that Vivian only wanted to be alone at this time, so it wouldn’t do her any good at all if she were to go and comfort her now. She let out a sigh. This is terrible. She’s in deep trouble this time.

The phone on Vivian’s table lit up with incoming calls, and they were all from Finnick and Fabian. However, Vivian was slumped on the toilet seat, sobbing her heart out.

As she sat on the toilet lid, she felt shivery and trembled uncontrollably. Beads of cold sweat were forming on her forehead.

Her past was like a nightmare that followed her everywhere she went. It was hindering her from living a happy life. She had just won over Finnick’s love, but once again, she was being knocked down by the cruel reality.

Back in the office, Sarah grew angry when she saw the interview video online. She spat, “What a bunch of wicked people. How could they go around exposing Vivian’s shortcomings? Do they even know the truth? They are just a bunch of troublemakers!”

The magazine company had an upcoming opening ceremony to cover in a hotel. It was initially arranged to be covered by Vivian. However, Fabian knew about the video circulating online. When he couldn’t get through to Vivian, he grew anxious.

He came to the office and saw that Vivian had left her phone on the table. She was nowhere to be seen. Feeling concerned, he asked Sarah about Vivian’s whereabouts. In a barely audible voice, she told him that Vivian might have gone to the washroom. But she had been away for quite a while, and she seemed to be crying.

Fabian quickly turned around and left.

Jenny glanced at Fabian’s retreating figure. She was trying to figure out what was going on but couldn’t put her finger on it. Somehow, she felt that there was something amiss about both of them from the beginning.

Ken said to Jenny, “Fabian really cares about Vivian, and it looks like he’s charmed by her. I guess I really underestimated her.”