Ch. 621..630
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 621
They delightfully cheered in the meeting room because of receiving a compliment from the Chief Editor.
“Vivian, you’re indeed awesome. How could you get the secret information about Mark?”
“That’s right, Vivian. If you didn’t ask us to investigate Mark when he wanted to build a hotel, how could our magazine make an exclusive report about it?”
“Vivian, you contributed the most in our success.”
By the way, Vivian, how did you know that Mark was involved in bribery?” one of her female team members asked curiously.
“Do you know what the sharpness of mind is?” A male team member interrupted even before Vivian could answer, “Having the sharp observation and good instinct are necessary to work in our industry. With that, we can see what others might overlook.”
“Of course, many years of experience and being meticulous are the foundations to acquiring such skills. Well, our smart and gentle Vivian has all the above-mentioned qualities. As such, it’s nothing unusual that she knew about it earlier than all of us.”
“Task!” As everyone glanced at him in disdain, Vivian shook her head because she was amused.
“What do you guys mean?” The male team member pretended to be dissatisfied as he continued, “Are you questioning that Vivian does not have such qualities?”
“Vivian is definitely awesome, but your flattery has improved a lot too.” As Sarah teased him openly, everyone in the room immediately burst into laughter.
After everyone finished laughing and quiet down, Vivian added, “Besides complimenting your effort, another purpose of having this meeting is to decide our interviewee for the next issue of the magazine. Any suggestion?”
Once she finished, everyone was deep in thought to search for an influential public figure. Shortly afterward, Holly, one of her female team members, proposed to interview Hunter Yates.
“Hunter Yates?” Vivian wasn’t sure if she was referring to Hunter, whom she knew.
“He’s a well-known lawyer.” Since Holly thought that Vivian didn’t know Hunter, she began to explain excitedly.
“He grew up overseas and only returned recently. Since then, he has swiftly risen to fame after winning a few difficult cases.”
“Besides, he is good-looking. I met him once when I was reporting news at the court. So, I can prove that he is really handsome. I believe many female readers will be attracted by him,” another female team member chimed in.
“Oh, he is the famous handsome lawyer, isn’t he?” Sarah was also interested and added, “Rumor says that he is very close to a female actress recently, so there are a lot of gossips about him. In that case, he is already popular among the masses. I think he really is a suitable candidate.”
Although Vivian was a little surprised that they proposed Hunter, she basically decided to choose him after listening to their comments.
“Alright, let’s have a vote. Raise your hand if you think we should interview Hunter.”
Once she finished, almost every female team member raised their hands. Besides, a lot of male team members followed suit too.
“Okay. In that case, we’ve fixed our interviewee for the next issue.” Vivian didn’t have any objections, given that a majority of them raised their hands.
“But I heard that he’s quite problematic,” one of them suddenly added, “A few magazines actually wanted to interview him before this, yet he rejected all of them. Would he agree to be our interviewee?”
Everyone was stumped once he raised the issue. Since the magazine industry is not huge, they basically heard that Hunter refused to be interviewed.
“Leave this to me. I’ll arrange it,” Vivian replied. She was rather confident when it came to Hunter.
Vivian and Hunter were considered old friends as they knew each other for a long time. As such, she believed that he would accept her invitation.
Everyone was instantly excited once Vivian said that confidently.
Vivian had gained considerable prestige among them after Mark’s interview. As such, they didn’t doubt her ability to convince Hunter to accept their magazine company’s interview invitation.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 622
“Vivian, are you Doraemon? How can you solve such a difficult problem? You’re indeed awesome!”
At this moment, everyone gazed at Vivian in admiration.
On the other hand, Shannon, who sat among them, was disgruntled. However, she didn’t utter a word, knowing that she had no channel to invite Hunter for an interview.
Humph! You can do it only because the Morrison family is backing you! Shannon looked at her resentfully.
Vivian actually sensed that someone was giving her a “unique” glance” but didn’t think much of it. After all, life had taught her not to care about those who were not related to her.
After the meeting was adjourned, Vivian returned to her office and called Hunter.
“Vivian, why are you calling me?” Hunter sounded excited over the phone.
“I have a favor to ask.” Vivian was a little embarrassed to ask for his help. After all, she hadn’t properly thanked him for lending her a hand last time.
“What is it?” Hunter asked delightedly. Given that Vivian needed his favor, he was excited and couldn’t ask for more. After all, he believed that they could get closer if they had more opportunities to talk.
“I would like to invite you to an interview with our magazine company. Would you accept our invitation?” Vivian asked.
“I see.” Hunter seemed to be hesitant about it.
“Rest assured that our magazine company will not violate your privacy. Besides, I’m sure the interview will help to boost your influence in your field.”
Vivian tried her best to persuade him as earnestly as she could. Given that she promised everyone to arrange the interview, she didn’t wish to disappoint them.
“Pfft!” Hunter was amused by her seriousness. “Alright, I can accept your magazine’s interview invitation on one condition.”
“What is it?” Vivian asked immediately. At the same time, her lips curled into a smile, knowing that the invitation was almost successful.
“The condition is that I want you to conduct the interview,” Hunter let out a wry smile as he said that.
“I only trust you. I mean, I’ll feel insecure if another reporter interviews me. So, I’ll only accept being interviewed by you.”
Vivian wanted to roll her eyes once Hunter finished. Insecure? This isn’t the first day that I know him! How could he have the cheek to say this?
“Rest assured that I’ll remind my colleague not to ask any sharp questions. Is this okay?” Vivian cautiously proposed.
She was actually aware of his feelings for her but didn’t want to face it. She didn’t love Hunter, and thus they could only be friends at most. Therefore, it was rather difficult for her to accept the condition that he proposed.
“Vivian, as I have said earlier, I’ll only accept being interviewed by you,” Hunter suddenly said in a serious tone. Is she still unaware of my feelings even after I’ve done so many things?
As Hunter was insistent on it, Vivian recalled the moment when everyone was excited about the prospect of interviewing Hunter. After hesitating for a while, she finally agreed to it.
“Alright, I’ll do it.”
She hung up the phone after confirming the time and venue of the interview with him.
She was supposed to be delighted because Hunter accepted the interview invitation. On the contrary, Vivian unknowingly felt a little irritated by it.
She shook her head to avoid overthinking it and continued burying herself with work.
Once Evelyn was released from prison, she instructed the driver to drive her to the hospital, where Rachel was admitted to. She soon arrived at Rachel’s ward.
“Evelyn, are you thirsty? Do you want some water? Are you hungry? Should we go home now? I can cook dinner for you.”
Rachel was apparently emotional and excited because Evelyn showed up suddenly.
On the other hand, Evelyn was disgusted by the wrinkles on Rachel’s face when she smiled. As such, she felt the urge to turn around and leave. However, once she thought of her plan, she had no choice but to hold back her impulse and stood still.
“I’m not hungry. I just need a glass of water,” Rachel replied while glancing away.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 623
She felt sick whenever she glanced at Rachel, who looked like a walking dead now.
“Oh, okay. I’ll get a glass of water for you now.” Rachel hastily grabbed a glass from the table but still stared at Evelyn.
Since Rachel walked backward while she talked, she didn’t realize a small tool behind her. As such, she tripped over it and fell. Also, the glass was broken and shattered all over the floor.
Evelyn immediately glanced away in disgust after witnessing it. She’s not a kid anymore! This is so embarrassing!
“Evelyn, did the broken pieces of glass cut your skin? Are you alright?”
After getting up, Rachel’s first reaction was to rush toward Evelyn and check if she was injured.
“I’m fine. You should be careful,” Evelyn knitted her brows and said impatiently.
“I know. I’ll be careful next time. Wait a minute. Let me get another glass of water for you,” Rachel said as she looked at Evelyn with guilt.
Deep down, Rachel scolded herself for being old and useless, for she couldn’t even get a glass of water for her daughter.
She hastily grabbed another glass on the table and limped toward the water dispenser. Her knee was probably scraped when she fell to the floor earlier on. However, she wasn’t bothered by the pain in her knee.
After filling up the glass, she smilingly handed it over to Evelyn and said, “Evelyn, have some water.”
Actually, Rachel’s hand was also scrapped by the broken pieces of glass and bleeding. She didn’t notice that she accidentally stained the glass with her blood.
On the other hand, Evelyn was about to lose it once she noticed the crimson stain. Is this lowly woman really my biological mother? How do I ever muster up the courage to acknowledge her as my mother?
Evelyn didn’t take the glass from her and held back her anger. “I don’t want to drink it now. Please put it aside.”
Stunned for a while, Rachel recollected herself and said, Alright, I’ll put it aside. Just tell me when you want to have some water, and I can get it for you. It’s not convenient for you to walk now.”
Rachel gazed at Evelyn’s leg when she was talking. The next moment, tears streamed down her face uncontrollably. God is unfair. Since I was at fault, why would He let my daughter bear the punishment for me instead? I deserve to go to hell, but Evelyn… she’s still young.
Evelyn frustratedly pulled the blanket that covered her legs. Deep in her heart, she didn’t want to stay in the ward any longer.
“I’m here to tell you that I’m willing to donate my bone marrow to save your life,” Evelyn furrowed her brows while explaining her reason for being there.
“Really?” Rachel found it hard to believe. “Evelyn, are you really willing to save me?”
Rachel couldn’t help but cry because she was touched. Evelyn still loves me because I’m her mom, after all. Since we’re related by blood, Evelyn won’t leave me stranded.
“Didn’t I say it already?” Evelyn got a little impatient. “Remember to tell Vivian about it. I’m going to see the doctor now.”
Once Evelyn finished, she wanted to leave the ward in the wheelchair but was stopped by Rachel.
“Evelyn, why must I tell Vivian about it? Also, since you’re not that convenient, let me bring you to see the doctor.”
“Don’t ask me why and just tell her about it. Just do as I said!” In the end, Evelyn couldn’t hold in her anger and yelled at Rachel.
“Evelyn, please don’t get angry. It was my fault. I shouldn’t ask so many questions. Please calm down, and I promise that I won’t ask about it further,” Rachel immediately comforted her because she was pissed off.
After a while, Evelyn realized that it wasn’t the right time for her to vent her anger.
As such, she calmed herself down and said, “Vivian looked for me once and told me about your condition. So, I want you to inform her so that she won’t be worried about it. Since you’re not feeling well, just stay in the ward to get more rest. I can see the doctor myself.”
“Alright, I’ll do as you said. I’ll give Vivian a phone call right away. Be careful when you leave.”
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 624
After listening to Evelyn’s explanation, Rachel couldn’t stop smiling. She was touched that Evelyn cared about her very much.
Evelyn murmured a response and quickly left the ward in her wheelchair. She didn’t even notice the smile of happiness on Rachel’s face.
As soon as she exited the ward, Evelyn took a deep breath and stopped hiding her repugnance for Rachel. I will never acknowledge her as my mom for the rest of my life! I would rather die than live in shame because of her!
Miles away, Vivian’s phone suddenly rang when she was working. She grabbed her phone and noticed that it was her mom’s call.
Vivian hastily answered the call. Given that Rachel hadn’t given her a call for a long time, she thought that Rachel had met with some emergencies.
“Vivian, did you look for Evelyn? She came to see me today,” Rachel said excitedly over the phone, “Besides, she agreed to donate her bone marrow to me! Thank you very much!”
“Really?” Vivian asked nervously. Why would Evelyn be so kind-hearted all of a sudden?
“Yes, it’s true. She’s in the hospital now to undergo the relevant check-up,” Rachel continued smilingly.
In that case, she isn’t giving mom an empty promise. Vivian was rather shocked. Well, was she moved by what I said?
“I’m coming to the hospital now to visit you. We’ll talk later. I’ll call you again when I arrive.” As Vivian found it hard to believe, she decided to check it out by herself in the hospital.
“Okay, I’ll wait for your call,” Rachel was still on cloud nine after hanging up the phone.
Vivian grabbed her bag and trotted downstairs. Then, she drove toward the hospital where Rachel was admitted to.
When Vivian arrived at Rachel’s ward, there was no one in it. She called Rachel and was told that both of them were undergoing relevant medical check-ups in another room.
She immediately asked for the location and ran toward the examination room. Finally, she saw Rachel and Evelyn inside.
“How is it?” Vivian asked while panting.
Before Rachel could say anything, Evelyn interrupted, “The doctor said that her condition isn’t satisfactory. Alas, it was my fault. Ms. Rachel would have recovered by now if I donated my bone marrow to her earlier.”
As she spoke, tears began to stream down her face. She grabbed Rachel’s wrinkled hands and said, “Ms. Rachel, I’m so sorry. It was my fault. I didn’t know that you’re severely ill. Why didn’t you tell me earlier about your illness?”
Rachel was heartbroken to see Evelyn cried. She immediately wiped away Evelyn’s tears and said, “Girl, how can you blame yourself for it? You don’t have to cry.”
The next moment, Evelyn felt disgusted once Rachel caressed her face. Damn it! When did I allow her to touch my face!
Nonetheless, because Vivian stood next to them, she couldn’t push Rachel’s hand away. Hence, she had no choice but to bear with her revulsion. Eww, why hasn’t she put her hand away? I mean… is she addicted to touching my face? I am going to vomit very soon!
Even though they seemed to be close to each other like a mother and a daughter, Vivian wasn’t touched by it. Instead, she unknowingly felt that the atmosphere was rather weird.
Evelyn seems to be totally different from who she was before. Is it possible for anyone to change her personality all of a sudden? Or does she have any hidden agenda to scheme against me?
After completing the check-ups, Vivian, Evelyn, and Rachel returned to the ward together.
Once they arrived, Evelyn grabbed Vivian’s hands and began sobbing. As Vivian was shocked, she couldn’t help but try to guess what Evelyn was trying to do.
“Vivian, can you lend me a hand? I’m begging you. Please help me.” Evelyn looked pitiful with tears all over her face.
Vivian looked at her bewilderedly. She didn’t understand what Evelyn meant.
Meanwhile, Rachel was heartbroken and said sobbingly, “Evelyn, please don’t cry. Tell us what it is about. Don’t worry because Vivian will definitely help you.”
“Really?” Evelyn pretended to be surprised and gazed at Vivian. “Vivian, will you really help me?”
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 625
“Yes, tell us what it is about,” Rachel answered on behalf of Vivian.
Although Vivian was a little displeased, she wouldn’t argue with Rachel about it.
“Tell us what it is about, and I’ll see if I can do it,” Vivian replied cautiously. She dared not agree to Evelyn’s request immediately, worrying that she would ask her to do something peculiar.
“It’s definitely within your capacity!” Evelyn wiped away her tears and said confidently, “Since Finnick always listens to you, please plead with him for me.”
Vivian’s expression turned cold once she heard Finnick’s name. I knew that Evelyn wouldn’t be that kind-hearted! It looks like she has been waiting for me here.
“I’m sorry. I can’t help you with that,” Vivian rejected coldly.
“Why can’t you help me with that?” Evelyn got nervous and grabbed Vivian’s hand. “Vivian, Finnick doesn’t want to see me now. He’s mad at me this time. Can you plead with him for me? I understand that it was my fault in the past, but please forgive me.”
Even though Rachel wasn’t sure what they were referring to, tears uncontrollably welled up in her eyes as she saw Evelyn crying.
As such, she began to persuade Vivian, “That’s right, Vivian. If Evelyn did something wrong in the past, I will apologize on her behalf. Can you just lend her a hand?”
Vivian was rather dejected because Rachel didn’t even ask what was going on. How can Rachel play favorites?
“I really can’t help her,” Vivian looked at Rachel seriously and continued, “What happened between Finnick and her is their personal matter. I don’t want to poke my nose into it. Neither do I have the right to interfere.”
“Why can’t you interfere?” Rachel was even more anxious than Evelyn. “Asking Finnick to forgive Evelyn is like lifting a finger. How complicated can their relationship be?”
“It’s not as easy as you think.” Vivian wasn’t sure how to put it into words. “Besides, you should know what happened between Finnick and me now. So, I really can’t help you with that.”
As Rachel wanted to say something, Evelyn suddenly stopped her and added, “Ms. Rachel, since Vivian isn’t willing to help me, just let it go. I’ll have to plead with Finnick myself.”
Then, she turned her wheelchair around and wanted to leave with tears on her face.
As expected, Rachel wouldn’t let her leave. “Evelyn, please don’t go now. Let me talk to Vivian again. She will definitely help you.”
After that, Rachel turned around to drag Vivian over and said, “Vivian, can you please agree to Evelyn’s request? I beg you.”
Vivian was rendered speechless once Rachel said so. Although she could never agree to it, she could hardly reject Rachel’s request either.
As Vivian was in a dilemma, Evelyn said, “Ms. Rachel, I’ll find ways to solve it. Since I did something wrong in the past, I can understand that she doesn’t forgive me. I don’t have cheeks to ask a favor from her.”
Tears streamed down her face again, yet she didn’t wipe them away but let them drop to the floor. At this moment, nearly everyone would feel pity for her.
The next moment, she left the ward even though Rachel stopped her. Rachel immediately caught up with her to comfort her and left Vivian in the ward alone.
She was a little irritated because Evelyn kept hinting before Rachel that she was holding grudges. Is this the real motive that she agreed to donate her bone marrow?
Not long after that, Rachel came back sobbingly and held Vivian’s hand.
“Vivian, I beg you to speak well for Evelyn to Finnick. Evelyn is already pitiful because she lost both her legs. Besides, she likes Finnick very much. If Finnick ignores her from now on, how can she continue living?”
Vivian was bitterly disappointed when Rachel said that. It turned out that Rachel actually knew that Evelyn liked Finnick. If so, why would she say such things to me?
Evelyn had a fallout with Finnick, but he is now my ex-husband. How can she persuade me to convince my husband to reconcile with another woman? This is ridiculous!
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 626
Ever since I arrived, Rachel hasn’t shown me any concern. Instead, all her attention was focused on Evelyn. It’s clear that the adopted daughter plays second fiddle to the biological one.
Nevertheless, Vivian explained respectfully, “Not that I refuse to help, it’s just that Finnick and I are divorced. Hence, I have no right to interfere in his affairs and neither do I want to have any contact with him. It’s better to let them sort out the problem themselves.”
Vivian assumed that Rachel would give up after she clearly stated her stance. However, Rachel was still persistent.
“Although you are divorced, your words must still carry some weight for old time’s sake. Why don’t you just give him a call and persuade him to forgive Evelyn?”
When she saw how Rachel was pleading, Vivian couldn’t help but feel conflicted. She remembered that Rachel hated begging. But now, she was willing to lower herself for Evelyn’s sake.
Vivian now felt it necessary to tell Rachel the truth. Perhaps, Rachel would no longer pressure her after learning about it.
Suppressing her bitterness, Vivian asked coldly, “In that case, do you know why Finnick is ignoring Evelyn?”
Rachel was stunned by the question and shook her head. “No matter what it is, he can’t treat Evelyn that way. He should give in as she is a cripple. How can he be so cruel as to abandon her?”
Vivian tried her best to suppress the rage that was swelling within her and explained, “Five years ago, Evelyn got someone to kidnap me and almost raped me. Luckily, Benedict saved me in time and thwarted her plans. Finnick is ignoring her because he found out about this.”
“That’s impossible!” Rachel covered her mouth in disbelief. “How can such a kind soul like Evelyn do something like that?”
A kind soul? Vivian laughed wryly in her heart and she figured only Rachel would think that Evelyn was kind. “Do you think I’ll lie to you about something like that?”
When she saw the intensity in Vivian’s eyes, Rachel had a feeling that she was telling the truth. She wondered if Evelyn really did do something as terrible as that.
“Vivian, let me apologize on behalf of Evelyn. I’m sorry. It was her fault then and she didn’t know any better. Please don’t hold it against her. Now that she has repented, can you help her plead with Finnick to forgive her? Since Finnick is angry at Evelyn on your account, it means that he still has feelings for you. Hence, he definitely will be willing to listen to you.”
Vivian looked at Rachel in shock. “After knowing what she did to me, you still expect me to plead on her behalf?”
Despite having been raised by Rachel, do I really not matter to her at all?
When Rachel saw the sorrow on Vivian’s face, she couldn’t help but feel conflicted. She knew that her request was unreasonable, but it broke her heart to see how sad Evelyn was.
“Vivian, I raised you myself and know that you are an extremely kind person. Hence, I hope you can be magnanimous and forgive Evelyn, alright? Today, you can see for yourself how devastated Evelyn is. She really has repented. Why don’t you help her and she will be eternally grateful?”
Vivian felt as if a giant hole was blown open in her heart and Rachel’s words like an icy breeze that filled the void. It was so cold that it caused her body to shudder.
Even though I am not Rachel’s biological daughter, I have treated her as my mom for more than twenty years. How can she bear to do this to me? Can it be that she only sees Evelyn as her daughter? Then, who am I supposed to be?
No longer wanting to stay, Vivian replied in a choking voice, “Alright. Let me think about it. In the meantime, why don’t you get some rest? I’ll come to see you again when I have time.”
Rachel’s face lit up when she heard that Vivian was willing to consider her request. “Do give my request some consideration and call me when you have seen the light. Evelyn will be delighted to hear the news.”
Why am I the one that doesn’t see the light? Vivian felt her eyes burn.
After reminding Rachel to take good care of herself, Vivian left the ward.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 627
Vivian walked slowly back home as she didn’t drive. As the cold wind blew, it constantly dried the tears that were streaming down her cheeks.
Today, she mourned the loss of a family member figuratively.
After a few days, when Vivian was at work, she received a call from Rachel. She informed Vivian that the test report showed that Evelyn’s bone marrow was a match. With some preparation, they would be able to undergo the operation.
Vivian was delighted to hear the news. Although Rachel’s recent actions had saddened her, Vivian still hoped that she could lead a healthy life.
At the end of the day, Rachel had raised her and occupied an important place in her heart.
“Vivian, have you come to a decision on Evelyn’s matter?” Rachel asked in a probing manner.
Vivian’s smile dissipated immediately as she replied in a dispassionate tone, “Let’s talk about it later. For now, we should focus on your health and get you prepared for the operation.”
“Alright, another time then. I’m sure you need more time to consider.” Rachel was embarrassed to push the matter further.
After acknowledging Rachel, Vivian ended the call. When she looked at the proposal in front of her, she realized that she was too frustrated to do any work.
For the last few days, her gloomy mood had unsettled her and affected her performance at work.
It was under such circumstances that the time for her interview with Hunter arrived.
After preparing the material and questions for the interview, Vivian received a call from Hunter before she had the opportunity to call him.
“Vivian, I’m at your office entrance. Come down quickly.” Hunter sounded excited. “Have you forgotten that you have to interview me today?”
“Huh? No, how could I forget? It’s just…” Shouldn’t I be the one going over to see Hunter instead? Why have the roles been reversed?
“What were you saying?” Hunter asked inquisitively. “Could it be that you’re busy today?”
“It’s nothing. I’m heading down now. Please wait for me.” Vivian ended the call after she replied. She began to feel something was amiss as this didn’t fit the standard procedure of an interview.
However, as Hunter was already waiting downstairs, there was no time for her to overthink it. Grabbing the material she prepared, she hurried downstairs quickly.
The moment she arrived, she was met by Hunter’s glowing smile. “Get in, I’ve already booked the place where we’re going to have the interview.”
“Didn’t we agree to have it at your law firm?” Vivian asked quizzically.
“No, not there.” Hunter shook his head immediately. “After giving it some thought, I felt that law firm just feels too rigid for an interview. Hence, I decided to look for another place.”
“Where?” Vivian wanted to know.
“You will know when we get there.” Hunter kept her in suspense. “Get in first.”
When she saw how mysterious Hunter was behaving, Vivian was both amused and curious at the same time. Whatever. I don’t really care where it is as long as I can get the job done.
Getting out of the car when they arrived, Vivian realized that Hunter had brought her to a high-end restaurant.
“What are we doing here?” She was puzzled.
“Having a meal,” Hunter replied as a matter-of-factly. “Think about it. We can do the interview while we eat. The ambiance will be quiet and romantic, backed by the melodious violin playing in the background. Isn’t that wonderful?”
It did sound like a charming idea to which Vivian nodded in agreement. “Let’s go in then.”
“Sure.” Following behind Vivian, Hunter let out a triumphant smile.
Upon entry, both of them were ushered to a table by the corner. When Vivian saw the table in a dim corner illuminated by the candlelight, she couldn’t help but furrow her brows.
“The light here isn’t good enough. We may not get a good picture for our photo later.”
“Erm…” Hunter hesitated for a moment before suggesting, “It’s alright. When the interview is over, we can find a brighter place for the photo.”
“That works.” Vivian nodded as she had no other choice. “Shall we begin the interview?”
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 628
“Don’t be in such a hurry.” Hunter laughed. “Let’s wait for the food to be served and then we can chat.”
Having heard what Hunter said, Vivian stopped herself when she was about to take her material out from her bag. “Alright. We will start later then.” As Hunter was the interviewee today, he had the prerogative to decide how it was going to be done.
“Vivian, today seems to be the first time we are meeting for work, isn’t it?” Hunter looked at Vivian with a gentle smile.
“That’s right.” Vivian returned his smile. “Also, I just got to know that you are a famous lawyer.”
“Is that so? Do I not usually look like one?” Hunter put on a serious face on purpose, causing Vivian to burst into laughter.
When he saw Vivian’s smile, Hunter felt as if his heart was melted by it. “Therefore, to commemorate our first business exchange, I have a gift for you.”
Hunter snapped his fingers when he finished and a waiter brought out a bouquet of flowers from underneath the kitchen trolley.
“Ms. Morrison, Mr. Yates would like to present you with these flowers.” The waiter bowed and put the flowers beside Vivian.
When she saw the fresh roses in front of her, Vivian gave Hunter a frantic look. She wondered what he was up to and why did he choose red roses on purpose.
Raising his hands to dismiss the waiter, Hunter retrieved a gift box from his pocket and opened it. Inside it was a diamond necklace. Illuminated by the candlelight, its sparkle dazzled the eyes.
Pushing the necklace toward her, Hunter remarked in a gentle tone, “When I was choosing it, I found that this design is perfect for you. I wonder if you like it?”
“This is just an ordinary interview and it’s not like we don’t know each other. Hence, there’s no need for you to be so generous.” Vivian pushed the necklace back. “This gift is simply too expensive for me to accept.”
“Perhaps it’s just an ordinary interview for you. But, it means something very different to me,” Hunter remarked as he stared at Vivian longingly.
“What do you mean by this?” Vivian’s expression darkened as she knew Hunter wouldn’t present her with something so valuable for no reason.
“Vivian, don’t you get it?” Vivian had never seen him so serious before, which made her panic further.
“Get what?” She hoped that it wasn’t what she thought it was.
“My feelings for you,” Hunter continued, “Vivian, I like you.”
Vivian’s heart skipped a beat at Hunter’s confession and was at a loss at how to react.
Lowering her head in thought for a long while, she replied, “Didn’t you say that you would not follow Evelyn’s instructions to pursue me? So what are you doing now?”
“Don’t worry. Since I have promised not to conspire with Evelyn against you, I will keep my word.” Hunter’s expression was serious. “Vivian, this time I’m not doing Evelyn’s bidding. Instead, I really want to make you mine.”
Vivian was stunned by Hunter’s words and didn’t know how to deal with the situation.
“Ms. Morrison, Mr. Yates, your dinner is ready. Would you like it to be served now?” Just when Vivian was lost in panic, the waiter approached them to ask.
“Alright, please go ahead.” As if she was saved by the bell, Vivian answered the waiter quickly.
After the waiter nodded and left, Vivian turned her attention back to Hunter. “Let’s talk about that next time. For today, we agreed for you to be interviewed. Now that dinner is about to be served, let us begin.”
Hunter felt bad when he saw how nervous Vivian was. Hence, he nodded in agreement. After all, there was no way he could rush the matter.
“Alright, let’s start with the interview.”
Having heard Hunter’s words, Vivian heaved a sigh of relief and brought out the questions and recording pen she had prepared.
“Tell us why you chose to be a lawyer?”
“What do you think a lawyer’s responsibilities are and what values should one have?”
Vivian’s early questions were quite procedural to which Hunter answered as best as he could. Many of the opinions he shared caused Vivian to gaped in awe. She didn’t believe the words that were coming out of the mouth of the playboy she knew.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 629
Evidently, Hunter had made a name for himself within the legal fraternity of Sunshine City, right after returning from overseas. It was a testament to his capabilities.
At the end of the interview, Vivian asked a couple of gossipy questions that the public was generally interested in. Such as the rumor about Hunter and wildly popular actress Scarlett Jonas.
“Everyone wants to know if the rumors of you and Scarlett are true?”
Vivian didn’t plan to ask such a nosy question but she had no choice as her readers were very interested in it. For the sake of the magazine’s sales, she had to bow to the demands of the market.
“What rumors?” Hunter leaned back into his chair and asked with his eyebrow raised.
“According to them, both of you are a couple.” Vivian was stung by how awkward the question was, but as an experienced reporter, she hid it well with a natural smile.
Suddenly, Hunter put a hand on the table to support his chin as he gave Vivian a mischievous look. “Does everyone want to know or do you want to know?”
He threw the question back at her.
“The public is interested to know, and that of course includes yours truly. Would you mind to share?” Vivian replied in a professional tone.
“So, it appears that you are curious about this.” Evidently, Hunter chose to hear what he wanted as he smiled faintly. “Since you are interested in whether I have a relationship with another woman, can I say presume that you are jealous?”
“What?” Vivian thought she had heard wrongly. What a joke! Me, jealous? What does that have anything to do with me? In truth, she had hoped that there was something between Hunter and Scarlett.
“I said,” Hunter smiled affectionately as he repeated, “you are being jealous.”
“I think you have misunderstood.” After confirming that she didn’t hear wrongly, Vivian quickly explained, “This is just an interview. Hence, my question stems from our readers’ interest in knowing what your relationship with Scarlett is. It doesn’t represent any personal views of mine.”
“Is that so?” Hunter was visibly disappointed. “If you are interested to know, I’m willing to explain it. But since you aren’t, then there’s no point in doing so. I’m sorry, I decline to answer this question as it has no bearing on my profession.
Vivian was miffed by Hunter’s answer. It’s fine if he declines to answer but why does he have to tease me that way.
Before the interview, her colleague at the magazine had pleaded with her to get the answer to this question, placing her in a dilemma. Since even her colleagues were interested to know, it indicated that the readers’ appetite was even larger.
If Hunter was willing to relate the matter to her, she could use it as a sensational headline to boost the magazine’s sales to new records.
Since she was here for work, Vivian hesitated before requesting, “Just take it that I am the one who’s interested to know. Can you shed some light on the matter?”
“What do you mean ‘take it’? Don’t you really want to know?” Hunter pressed on
Vivian rolled her eyes at Hunter being difficult on purpose.
“Yes, I do want to know. Can you tell me now?” Vivian’s tone was tinged with exasperation as she pursed her lips, which was a habit of hers when she was angry.
Hunter found her adorable when she did that. It was also his first time seeing her react in such a feminine manner, making him wonder if they were making progress in their relationship.
Holding that thought, Hunter couldn’t help but express his delight with a wide grin.
He was now absolutely sure of his feelings for Vivian, who was sitting opposite him right now.
Prior to this, he would be interested in every pretty girl he saw. But now, he wasn’t interested in anyone else other than Vivian. It was normal for him to have ladies throw themselves in his direction. He used to accept their advances but currently, he found them boring instead.
He wasn’t even aware of the moment he had begun to focus his sights on her.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 630
Despite his gradually fading smile, his eyes couldn’t hide their delight. His tone was also exceedingly gentle to the extent one would cringe at it.
“Scarlett has sought my help for a court case relating to a sponsorship deal of hers. Hence, we met a few times and coincidentally had our picture taken. Our relationship is strictly professional. Hence, the rumors out there are untrue. You mustn’t believe them and shouldn’t worry about it too.”
“Why should I worry?” Vivian was puzzled.
“You are all that matters to me,” Hunter declared all of a sudden.
What the hell is this? Vivian’s heart was thrown into disarray by Hunter’s words. Their relationship seemed to be going in a direction that was out of her control.
No, I can’t let this continue. She had no feelings for Hunter, and she wanted to make it clear so that he wouldn’t fall deeper into the relationship.
“Hunter, between us, there’s no…” Just as she spoke, Vivian was interrupted by her ringing phone.
When she checked, she saw that it was Evelyn on the line. After hesitating a moment, Vivian decided to answer as she was worried that it had something to do with Rachel.
“Vivian, are you tomorrow?” Evelyn asked with a smile.
“Why?” Vivian furrowed her eyebrows.
“If you’re , I would like to invite you to watch an opera.”
Vivian was unsettled by Evelyn’s invitation and didn’t feel like agreeing. However, the thought of Evelyn agreeing to donate her bone marrow to Rachel caused Vivian to waver. She was still grateful to Evelyn for helping Rachel.
“Alright. What time will it be tomorrow?”
After agreeing on a time, Vivian ended the call.
“Who is it?” Hunter asked when he saw Vivian’s mood change after the call.
“Evelyn,” Vivian casually replied.
Hunter was instantly wary when he heard it was Evelyn who called. “What does she want with you?”
Vivian was touched when she detected the concern in his voice. “She invited me to watch an opera with her tomorrow.”
Hunter knitted his eyebrows deep in thought. Based on his understanding of Evelyn, he was sure that she harbored ill intentions. Therefore, there was a high chance that Vivian’s life would be in danger.
Holding that thought, Hunter raised his gaze at Vivian. “I’ll go with you tomorrow.”
“What for?” Vivian didn’t agree. The fact that Hunter just confessed his feelings to her had caused her to decide that she needed to keep some distance between them. “I’m fine going alone.”
“Have you forgotten about Evelyn’s scheme for me to get close to you?” Hunter asked. “Only by appearing together tomorrow would she believe that I am serious about pursuing you. Only then would she trust me enough to share with me her plans to harm you. Furthermore, I would also like to remind you to be careful.”
Vivian was moved by Hunter’s words. Evelyn was indeed a huge threat to both herself and Larry. Therefore, she had to remain vigilant.
If Hunter could gain Evelyn’s confidence, it would indeed ease Vivian’s fears significantly.
Nevertheless, despite being aware of Hunter’s intentions, Vivian felt bad for having him do this as it felt like she was using him.
Just when she was hesitating, Hunter raised his hand and smiled at what was behind her.
Turning around in curiosity, Vivian saw a beautiful lady with long hair smiling back at her. No wait, she is smiling at Hunter.
“She is an old friend of mine,” Hunter explained when he saw the quizzical look on Vivian’s face.
Vivian lamented the fact that he had female friends everywhere and they were all gorgeous.
Nevertheless, she felt relieved at what she had just seen.
It appeared that Hunter’s confession might not be as sincere as she thought. After all, he might have even said the same thing to the lady in front of her. He had always been a playboy and Vivian felt that it was she who had taken him too seriously.
With that thought in mind, the pressure she felt eased significantly.
“Vivian, it’s better that I go with you tomorrow as I’m worried about you going alone,” Hunter insisted.