Ch. 631..640
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 631
After giving it some thought, Vivian finally agreed. “Fine. I’ll call you tomorrow then.”
“Alright.” Hunter replied with a smile.
“Anyway, let’s continue with the interview. I still have a few more questions for you.” Vivian picked up the materials she brought with her.
After asking a few more questions, the interview came to an end. Vivian heaved a sigh of relief as the interview had come to a successful conclusion.
“Let me send you home,” Hunter offered.
“It’s alright. I can go back by myself, there’s no need to trouble you,” Vivian declined with a smile.
“Vivian, it’s basic manners for a man to escort a lady home. Are you even going to deny me that opportunity?”
When Hunter put it that way, Vivian had no excuse to reject him. Given how direct he was, she would be making an unnecessary fuss by declining further.
“Fine then, sorry for the trouble.” Vivian saw that the sky had begun to darken outside.
“There’s no need to be a stranger with me,” Hunter replied with a smile.
After waving to the waiter to get the bill, Hunter drove Vivian back to the Morrison residence.
As both of them chatted away in the car, Vivian was still on edge as she was worried Hunter would declare his feelings for her again.
However, when he didn’t bring the matter up, it reinforced her belief that his earlier confession was likely made in jest.
“Thanks for sending me home,” Vivian thanked him as she unbuckled her safety belt and prepared to alight.
“Wait,” Hunter called out to her and brought out the roses and gift box. “Vivian, I have painstakingly chosen these and they represent my feelings toward you. So, please keep them.”
“They’re too expensive,” Vivian declined at once. “I won’t accept anything I don’t deserve.”
Well aware of how stubborn she can be, Hunter didn’t push the matter further.
“I understand if you can’t accept the necklace due to how expensive it is. But, I’m sure you have no excuse not to accept the flowers. If you don’t like the beautiful flowers, I’ll have no choice but to bin them.
“I…” Vivian felt conflicted by Hunter’s words and had no excuse to turn down the flowers.
“Alright.” She accepted them from Hunter with a smile. “Thank you.”
“I already told you that you don’t have to stand on ceremony with me.”
After smiling politely, Vivian alighted while bidding farewell, “I’m going in. You should head back and be careful along the way.”
Nodding in acknowledgment, Hunter turned the car around and left.
Looking at the bouquet of roses in her hand, Vivian sighed and felt as if she had a headache.
“Mommy, you’re home!” The moment she entered, she saw Larry rushing over and throwing himself at her.
Kneeling to pick him up, Vivian kissed his face affectionately. “Did you finish the homework your teacher gave you?”
“I’ve finished them a long time ago,” Larry replied as he looked at the bunch of roses Vivian was holding curiously. “Mommy, those flowers are beautiful. Did someone else give them to you?”
Wise beyond his age, Larry was well aware of what the roses meant and wondered if someone was pursuing his mommy. If that’s true, what’s going to happen to Daddy?
“You cheeky little pumpkin,” Vivian couldn’t help but smile while tapping on Larry’s head. She then put the roses by the table without intending to answer his question.
After all, it was awkward to discuss such matters with her son.
“Wow, what did Ms. Booker cook today that smells so delicious? Let’s wash our hands and get ready for dinner.” Changing the subject, Vivian held Larry’s hand as she led him to the dining table.
However, it wasn’t going to be easy to throw him off. As he held onto Vivian’s arm, he asked anxiously, “Mommy, tell me. Who gave you the flowers?”
“What flowers?” Benedict, who had just came out from the study, heard what Larry said as he descended the stairs.
After letting Vivian’s arm go, Larry went to the table to pick up the flowers.
The big bouquet covered his entire face from view. Behind him, one could hear his excited yet anxious voice. “Uncle Benedict, look! Someone gave Mommy a bunch of roses.”
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 632
Quickening his pace, Benedict stared at the flowers in front of him. His gaze was filled with both delight and concern.
Delighted because Vivian had finally decided to open herself up emotionally given that she was willing to accept someone else’s flowers. After all, it was considered a good start. However, he was worried that she might meet someone wrong and be hurt all over again.
“Vivian, who gave you the flowers?” Benedict asked the same question Larry did.
Shaking her head, Vivian explained, “I only accepted it because there was no way to decline. Ben, don’t make too much out of it.”
Despite what she said, it was the first time he saw her bringing back a bouquet of flowers after so many years. Hence, it was understandable for him to be concerned given how much he cares about his sister.
Having approached her, Benedict solemnly reminded, “Vivian, if you have really met someone, don’t hold yourself back. Remember to seize the opportunity to find happiness. I’ll be behind you in whatever you do.”
“Mmm-hmm.” Vivian nodded as she was touched by his words. “I know, Ben.”
“Does the person who gave you the flowers really not have a chance?” Benedict probed. “Can you tell me who it is? After all, it’s my duty as your brother to look out for you.”
Vivian couldn’t help but smile at Benedict’s question. “Ben, I promise you that if I really meet someone suitable, I will give it a chance. However,” she looked at the flowers Larry was holding and shook her head before adding, “this man doesn’t stand a chance. Hence, there’s no need to introduce him to you.”
As it was now obvious she didn’t fancy the person who gave her the flowers, Benedict felt disappointed. Nevertheless, he still maintained his gentle smile. “Since it’s not a possibility, let’s stop talking about it. Come, it’s time for dinner.”
Although he had hoped that Vivian would meet someone new, forget the bitter memories from her time with Finnick, and find her own happiness, he knew it wasn’t something that could be rushed. Most importantly, she had to have feelings for that person.
After grunting in acknowledgment, Vivian was both moved and relieved.
She had a good idea of what Benedict was thinking about. However, she knew he would never force her to do something that she wasn’t willing to do. He really cares a lot about me.
“Little pumpkin, put down the flowers. Let’s go wash your hands,” Vivian instructed as she turned to look at Larry.
“Okay.” Putting the flowers back where he took them, Larry let out a long sigh with his back facing Vivian. Luckily, Mommy doesn’t like the man who gave her the flowers. Or else, what’s going to happen to Daddy?
As he ambled to Vivian’s side, he obediently followed her to wash his hands. However, his expression was still filled with concern.
Although Mommy doesn’t like the man who gave her the flowers, she is still very pretty and would definitely have other suitors sooner or later. If Mommy falls for someone else, wouldn’t I then have a step-dad?
With that thought in mind, Larry shook his head vehemently. That can never happen! He didn’t want a step-dad. Instead, he just wanted Daddy. Daddy is so awesome and only he is compatible with Mommy.
“What’s wrong?” Vivian asked when she saw Larry shaking his head all of a sudden. Placing her hand on his forehead to check, she realized it wasn’t hot. “Little pumpkin, are you feeling alright?”
“It’s nothing. My neck was just itchy just now.” Larry replied with a random excuse as his heart raced nervously.
Vivian suspected nothing as she gently slapped his neck. “Is it still itchy?”
“Not anymore.” Larry answered.
“Let’s go have dinner then.” Vivian helped Larry dry his hands.
As Vivian carry him to the dining table, Larry resolved in his heart to find out the true reason Daddy and Mommy split up.
However, how am I going to go about doing it? He fell into another dilemma.
The next day, Vivian went to the office after dropping Larry off at school. Her appointment with Evelyn to watch the opera together was in the afternoon.
After leaving work at noon, she gave Hunter a call. She agreed to meet him in front of her office so that they could go to the opera house together.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 633
“Vivian, let’s go in my car.” Hunter arrived in less than half an hour and stopped Vivian from going toward her car.
When he saw Vivian hesitating, Hunter added, “If we drive our own cars, I’m afraid Evelyn won’t believe that we are going out with each other.”
After giving his words some thought, Vivian nodded and joined him in his car.
On the way to the opera house, Vivian looked out the window in a daze.
When Hunter saw her spacing out, he wondered if he should make some small talk but decided against it for fear that it would get on her nerves.
When they arrived at the opera house, Vivian’s gaze darkened at the sight of Evelyn who was waiting by the entrance.
No matter the reason for the invitation, she wasn’t going to allow Evelyn to get what she wanted.
When Evelyn saw Vivian and Hunter together, she couldn’t help but let out a triumphant smile. It seems Hunter has made good progress as Vivian seems to be into him. Hmph! She really is a fool.
“Vivian, Hunter, you’re here.” Evelyn greeted them with a smile.
“I hope I’m not imposing by coming uninvited,” Hunter responded with a smile while Vivian didn’t say a word.
“Of course not,” Evelyn replied with a grin. “I can understand when new couples just can’t have enough of each other. In fact, am I being the third wheel here by invading your privacy?”
Hunter only responded with a smile while Vivian didn’t respond at all. After all, the reason she came here with Hunter was to trick Evelyn into thinking that they were both an item.
When Vivian didn’t reply, Evelyn assumed that she had implicitly agreed with what she said. Hence, she was further delighted that Vivian was playing into her hands.
“Alright, the opera is about to start. Let’s go inside.” Just as she spoke, Evelyn wheeled herself into the building while Vivian and Hunter followed behind.
Just when the three of them were about to enter, a man dashed out of nowhere and thrust a knife in Vivian’s direction.
“Vivian!” When Hunter saw the man, his first reaction was to hug Vivian and use his body as a shield to protect her.
“Ah!” the crowd around them was shocked as screams began to ring out through the building. “My God! what’s going on?” “Call the police!” “Run!”…
When the assassin realized he had stabbed the wrong person, he began to panic. Dropping his knife, he blended into the crowd and fled. Everyone was terrified by how vicious he was and no one dared to stop him. All they could do was watch as he disappeared from sight.
When she felt Hunter’s head slumped on her shoulders and his body beginning to collapse, Vivian panicked. How did things turn out this way?
“Hunter, are you alright?” Vivian carefully supported him.
As Hunter’s body began to weigh on her, she carefully lay him down onto the floor while letting his head rest on her shoulder, just when she was trembling all over.
When she saw the knife sticking out of Hunter’s back and blood gushing out non-stop, Vivian was seized with fear. By God’s grace, I hope that he is alright. Or else I will regret this for the rest of my life.
“Vivian, I…” A cold sweat broke out off on Hunter’s forehead as he tried to console Vivian, telling her not to worry nor be afraid.
The moment he spoke, he could feel the excruciating pain overwhelm him, forcing him to grit his teeth to endure the pain.
“Don’t say another word. I’ll call for an ambulance at once. Hang it there. You’ll be alright.” Just as she reassured him, she made the call with her trembling hands.
After reporting her location to the medical officer on duty, Vivian frantically watched as she saw Hunter losing consciousness. “Hunter, hang in there. The ambulance is coming. You have to stay with me. If anything happens to you, I will…”
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 634
While she was speaking, tears were streaming down her cheeks.
“What will you do?” Hunter was dying to ask her. This was the first time since they met that he saw her so worried about him.
However, the pain radiating through his body prevented him from doing so. Nevertheless, he couldn’t help but feel a warm sensation envelope him. Given how worried she is, does it indicate that I mean something to her?
Holding that thought in mind, Hunter lost consciousness as he couldn’t endure the waves of pain emanating throughout his body. Just when everything was about to go dark, he could still faintly hear Vivian calling out his name.
Why am I filled with happiness in such a moment? That was the last thought he had before he fainted.
…
The moment he regained his consciousness, Hunter furrowed his eyebrows. The sharp pain in his back caused the memories of what had just happened to flood back into his mind. Am I in the hospital?
After struggling to open his eyes, he realized that he was indeed there. In that case, where’s Vivian? She must be terrified. She seemed to be choking before I lost consciousness. Was she crying?
Due to the location of his wound, he was lying face down on the bed. Hence, he was unable to see what was going on in the ward. He gently pushed himself to his side so that he could look around his surroundings.
“You’re awake!” The moment he moved, he heard Vivian’s delighted tone from behind. The next moment, she appeared before him looking all worried.
“How do you feel? Does it still hurt?” Vivian asked anxiously.
The doctor said that the wound wasn’t deep and that he could be discharged after half a month’s rest. Nevertheless, she was still concerned about him. Is he really alright after losing so much blood?
Shaking his head, Hunter tried his best to squeeze out a weak smile. “I… I’m fine.”
When she heard Hunter’s hoarse voice, she quickly dabbed a cotton bud with some water and applied it on his lips to moisten them.
“The doctor said that you can’t drink for the time being. Hence, you have to supplement yourself with liquid this way.” Vivian explained as she continued to feed him water. “He also said that you will be fine after resting for half a month. By then, your wound would have closed. Hence, there’s no need for you to worry.”
“All that matters is that you’re safe,” Hunter uttered softly as he watched Vivian meticulously wetting his lips. At that moment, his heart was filled with joy, to the extent that it even distracted him from the pain he felt.
Having heard Hunter’s words, Vivian was stunned for a moment as her eyes flashed with complex emotions.
Putting down the cup and cotton bud, she asked Hunter, “Why did you shield me from the attack? Didn’t you know how dangerous it was? If the wound was any deeper, your life would have been in danger.”
“I wanted to protect you,” Hunter replied in earnest. “Vivian, I won’t ever allow you to come to any harm in front of me. As I said, I like you.”
Having not taken his earlier confession seriously, Vivian finally realized that he was sincere in his feelings for her.
As her eyes begin to burn, Vivian felt an inexplicable sadness in her heart. Somehow, she didn’t know how to face Hunter who was lying on the hospital bed.
Having been through so much, she realized more than anyone else how difficult it was to find someone true. However, it was fated for her to disappoint him.
Blinking her eyes, Vivian stood up and said, “Let’s not talk about this. Instead, you should get some rest. I’ll go check with the doctor to see if there’s anything we should be mindful of.”
“Mmm-hmm,” Hunter responded with his eyes filled with disappointment. It seems she is avoiding the topic despite my confession.
After tucking Hunter in, Vivian left the ward. Hunter then closed his eyes as the few words he spoke just now had taken everything out of him. At that moment, the excruciating pain from his wound began to emanate throughout his body.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 635
After some time, Hunter suddenly opened his eyes. He was fully vigilant as he had heard the whirring of a wheelchair.
What is Evelyn doing here?
The moment she entered, her gaze met with Hunter’s. She greeted him with an indifferent tone, “You’re awake.”
“Mmm-hmm,” Hunter snorted in reply. When he noticed the probing look in her eyes, he knew that she was likely responsible for the assassination.
“Why did you take that blow for her?” Evelyn got straight to the point without an ounce of concern for Hunter’s condition.
“Didn’t you tell me to get close to her and gain her trust?” Hunter lied to Evelyn. So far, he hadn’t gotten Evelyn to trust him enough to share with him her plans.
“Although I am a lot closer to Vivian now, she still doesn’t trust me fully. Now that I have taken a knife for her, she will no longer doubt my feelings for her.”
Having spoken too much, Hunter aggravated his wound, causing him to grimace in pain.
“But, aren’t you making too big a sacrifice for it? Is it even worth it?” Evelyn probed as she didn’t believe in Hunter’s words. She was even worried that he had fallen for Vivian.
“Sacrifices will always be needed in the pursuit of women. I have never failed to pursue anyone who I fancy. Vivian will also not be an exception.”
Just as he spoke, Hunter faked a melodramatic look at Evelyn.
“Furthermore, as you have given me this task, I will definitely complete it by hook or by crook. Getting a little injury in the process is no big deal.”
Having heard what Hunter said, Evelyn put her suspicions to rest. After all, the Hunter she knew was relentless in his pursuit of women.
Wheeling herself in front of Hunter, she looked at him coyly. “As long as you help me ruin Vivian, there might be a possibility that things work out between us.”
“Make sure you keep your word?” Hunter’s eyes sparkled with excitement.
“Of course.” Evelyn smiled smugly to herself. Given the extreme lengths Hunter was willing to go to for her sake, she felt that her charm had not diminished one bit over the years.
When he saw that Evelyn could barely hide the smugness in her expression, he believed that she was taken in by his words.
Sprawling back down, Hunter’s face couldn’t help but grimace as the pain from the wound was indeed debilitating.
When she saw the suffering look on his face, Evelyn asked out of concern, “Are you alright? Does the wound hurt? Do you want me to get the doctor?”
This time, the concern she showed was sincere. After getting to know his thoughts, he had started to grow on her. This man really has good taste.
Between Vivian and me, any sane person would choose me, isn’t it? But why of all people Finnick chose Vivian? What’s so good about that wench? How can she even compare herself to me?
Holding that thought, Evelyn’s eyes were filled with jealousy. That was the reason why she wanted Vivian to be disposed of as Vivian was a reminder of her failure.
At that moment, Hunter didn’t notice the furious expression Evelyn had. Instead, he casually asked, “Did you plan Vivian’s assassination today?”
Just as he spoke, he looked at Evelyn and tried to observe her every reaction.
Evelyn replied with a smirk, “It wasn’t me.”
Furrowing his eyebrows slightly, Hunter naturally didn’t believe her. Other than her, who else hates Vivian to the extent of wanting to kill her?
“Who do you think is behind it?” Hunter probed as he continued to watch her.
“I don’t know.” Evelyn shook her head slightly before snorting, “Since she loves being the third party in the marriages of others, someone may be looking to exact revenge on her. Hmph! She should consider herself lucky that you saved her this time. Next time, I’m afraid that she wouldn’t be so lucky.”
As his eyes filled with resentment, Hunter regarded his own taste with disdain. The time he spent pursuing Evelyn during his university days was now considered a black mark on his life.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 636
Since Evelyn was unwilling to admit it, Hunter decided not to press on for fear of raising her suspicions. If that happened, everything he did would be for naught.
“What do you plan to do to Vivian next? I’ll help you with it.” Hunter changed the subject and tried to find out what Evelyn’s next scheme was.
“I haven’t thought of it yet.” She wasn’t the least bit suspicious. “I’ll give you a call when I need your help.”
“Alright.” Hunter acknowledged. “I will do my very best to help you.”
“Thank you.” Evelyn looked touched. But Hunter wasn’t sure if she was really moved by his words or if she was just pretending.
“Now, I’m regretting the fact that I didn’t accept your overtures then,” Evelyn remarked coyly. “But no matter. There’s still a lot of time. Our time will come.”
Hunter forced himself to smile at Evelyn. “I hope you don’t forget what you have said today.”
F*ck! Who the hell wants to be with you? All Hunter could do was swear silently in his heart.
Smiling at him knowingly, she looked at the glass of water on the table and asked, “Do you want some water? I’ll get some for you.”
“It’s alright. It’s better you go now,” Hunter replied. “Vivian is about to return anytime. I’m worried that she will suspect something if she sees us together. If that happens, everything I have done will be for naught.”
After giving it some thought, Evelyn felt Hunter was right. “Fine, I’ll take my leave then. You must do your very best to gain her trust and convince her that your feelings for her are true.”
“Mmm-hmm.” Hunter nodded with his heart filled with resentment.
After nagging Hunter to be careful not to expose himself, Evelyn whirred her wheelchair out of the ward.
Once she was gone, Hunter didn’t hide the contempt in his expression. He had been trying to endure the pain from his wound while dealing with her at the same time, causing him to feel extremely frustrated.
Shortly after Evelyn left, Vivian returned with a piece of paper in her hand. “I have listed down everything the doctor said you should be mindful of during your recovery. You should take a look so that you don’t do any of them.”
After receiving the list, Hunter couldn’t help but feel all the frustrations evoked by Evelyn being wiped away. Even the pain he felt had eased significantly.
“Evelyn just came by,” Hunter informed Vivian. “I asked her about it but she denied sending the assassin. However, I have a feeling that it definitely must be her.”
“It isn’t,” Vivian replied, “as I was the one who arranged it.”
“What?” Hunter was shocked and couldn’t believe what he just heard. “It was obvious that the man was trying to kill you. How could you have arranged it?”
“I really did,” Vivian admitted as she gave Hunter an apologetic look. “I’m sorry to have caused you such a grievous injury.”
When he saw the guilt written on Vivian’s face, Hunter finally accepted what he just heard. He asked in a stern expression, “Why did you do that?”
“Because, I want revenge,” Vivian uttered solemnly as her eyes were filled with hatred. “I want to pay her back for everything she has done to me over the years.”
“It’s fine if you want revenge. You can just tell me and I’ll think of a plan. But why the need to hurt yourself?” Hunter asked anxiously. Did you know how dangerous it was? What if you were stabbed? He didn’t even dare imagine it.
Vivian was moved by Hunter’s words and could feel his concern for her.
“Five years ago, when I was still with Finnick, Evelyn invited me to a café and fell down on purpose. After that, she cut her own face with glass.”
Suddenly, Vivian began to share her past with Hunter.
“However, she accused me of pushing her because I was jealous of her beauty and worried that she would take Finnick away from me. At that time, Finnick, my mom, and the surrounding crowd believed her. I tried to desperately to explain myself but no one was willing to believe me. The feeling at that time…”
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 637
Tears welled up in Vivian’s eyes and her voice began to break. She could never forget the feeling of being falsely accused with no one to believe her. It had traumatized her for life.
“Therefore, I wanted Evelyn to know how it felt like not to be believed by others,” Vivian explained with a hateful tone. “I wanted Finnick and my adopted mom, people who didn’t believe me then to not believe her now. I want them to feel utterly disappointed with her and I want Evelyn ruined!”
Just as she spoke, Vivian could feel the rush of revenge fill her soul.
Does Evelyn still think I’m the same person that was easily manipulated by her years ago? Despite her hatred for Evelyn, Vivian was still cordial every time they met. What does she think I’m doing this for?
By getting close to Evelyn, she could set a trap for her. Just like how Evelyn sabotaged her in the past. Does Evelyn think that only she knows how to play this game? As of now, I do too!
Despite Vivian’s overflowing hatred, Hunter wasn’t disgusted nor frightened by it. Instead, all he felt was sympathy for her.
After spending so much time with her, he figured he had finally got to know her. Despite her indifferent attitude toward him, he understood that she was gentle at heart and still harbored feelings for Finnick. It was obvious from the moment she risked her life to save Finnick at the cruise ship.
What did Evelyn do to her to fill her with so much hatred? To the extent she would go against her own gentle nature just to ruin Evelyn? How deeply was she hurt then?
“Vivian,” Hunter asked in earnest, “why are you telling me all this? Aren’t you worried that I tell Evelyn?”
“Didn’t you say that you’re on my side?” Vivian replied with equal resolve. “I didn’t believe you before this. But now, I do.”
Having heard Vivian’s words, Hunter’s heart was inexplicably filled with emotion when he realized that she finally believed his feelings for her were true.
“I’m sorry, Hunter. All I wanted was for the man to pretend to attack me. I would avoid him at the last minute and then come away with light injuries,” Vivian explained with her face filled with guilt.
“However, I didn’t expect you to suddenly dash out and shield me from the knife. I’m sorry. It’s my fault that you got hurt. I’m really sorry. Will you ever forgive me?”
“Do you think I ever will?” Hunter threw the question back at her in an angry tone.
Taking a deep breath, Vivian bit her lip tightly. She wasn’t expecting Hunter to forgive her. “I’m sorry. I know you may not want to hear all these. But, all I can do now…”
“Do you think I’m blaming you because I got hurt? I’m angry at you for not knowing how to protect yourself!” Hunter interrupted Vivian’s apology.
“I can understand why you want revenge. But, there are so many other ways to do it. Why must you choose one that would get yourself hurt? Do you even think you have control over the situation? Given the chaos, what if the man accidentally stabs you? Have you ever thought of what the consequences are?”
His words only served to intensify Vivian’s guilt. She could sense his underlying concern for her while he was reprimanding her.
After all, he was lying in the hospital bed because of her. Instead of blaming her, he was still worried for her safety. She wondered how she was ever going to reciprocate his affection for her.
“Hunter, are you disappointed in me? I’m no different from Evelyn now. In fact, I’m just as vicious as her,” Vivian remarked with her gaze lowered.
After reflecting on the incident, she couldn’t believe that she was cruel enough to do something like that. How am I any different from Evelyn now?
However, I have no regrets as I am sick of always being the victim. Evelyn will never rest until I’m done for. Hence, for Larry’s sake, I have to strike before she does.
“From the eyes of the law, self-defense is not a crime,” Hunter replied with a smile. “Furthermore, you are a fool who chose to hurt yourself as a method of self-defense.”
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 638
Huh? Vivian was confused. What does he mean?
Hunter found her puzzled look extremely adorable. The next moment, a sense of pity couldn’t help but swell within him.
Holding her hand, he stared into her eyes and gently suggested, “Vivian, I understand you’re doing this just to protect yourself and Larry. I promise that going forward, I will make sure both of you are safe. Also, you have to promise me not to do anything this dangerous, alright?”
Not knowing what to say in response, Vivian pulled her hand away and lowered her head. After realizing that Hunter’s feelings for her were true, she became unsure of how to face each other going forward.
“Hunter, thank you for the concern you have shown for me and Larry. But, you have to know that I only see you as a friend.” Vivian wanted to make her stance clear to Hunter as she hated ambiguity in relationships, just like how Finnick and Evelyn used to be.
Furthermore, she had no feelings for him. Hence, she didn’t want him to waste his time and energy. Besides, she was already having trouble trying to repay her debt of gratitude to him.
“Just treat me as a friend then.” Despite the stinging pain in his heart, Hunter maintained his gentle expression.
“Vivian, I’m not expecting anything from all that I have done for you. After all, liking you isn’t something I can control. If my feelings for you are unnerving you, I would like to apologize. But, I hope you won’t keep your distance just because of that.”
Vivian was at a loss when she heard Hunter’s words. After all, she didn’t have much experience in relationships and naturally wasn’t good at rejecting someone she had no feelings for.
If not for what happened today, she would have outright rejected him. However, after he had saved her life, she couldn’t bring herself to do something as cruel as that.
Furthermore, after getting to know him better, she was aware that Hunter was an egoistic person. Hence, she couldn’t deny that she was moved by his words and the fact that he apologized for having feelings for her.
“No, I won’t.” Vivian shook her head. “Hunter, regardless of what happens, thank you. Now that you’re still injured, you should get some rest. Let’s not talk about this anymore, alright? We will come back to it when you’ve recovered.”
“Alright, we talk again when I’m discharged.” Hunter nodded.
He wasn’t blind to the conflicted expression in her eyes and was also aware that she couldn’t bring herself to cruelly reject him in his current condition.
Nevertheless, it was also a sign of her concern for him. Does it mean that I still have a chance, no matter how slim it is?
Even if it was a sliver of an opportunity, he would definitely not let it go.
Meanwhile, Finnick was in a video conference when Noah barged in suddenly with an anxious expression. “Mr. Norton, something bad has happened…”
Before Noah could finish, Finnick raised his hand to stop him. After giving Noah a warning glance, Finnick turned his attention back to his counterparts on the video conference to discuss work.
Noah desperately wanted to report the news that he had just received but couldn’t disrupt Finnick’s meeting. Hence, he had no choice but to wait anxiously by the side.
After more than ten minutes, Finnick ended the video call. Before he even had the chance to ask, Noah couldn’t wait but informed him, “Mr. Norton, there was an assassination attempt on Mrs. Norton at the opera house…”
“What!” Finnick jumped up to his feet when he heard that Vivian’s life was in danger. “Is she alright? Was she hurt? Where is she now?”
He spewed out at once all the questions that popped into his head. Finnick was fearful of what Noah was going to tell him as it would devastate him to know that Vivian was hurt.
“Mrs. Norton is now at Pinnacle Hospital. There was a man with her…”
Before he could finish, Noah saw a shadow flew by him. In the very next moment, Finnick was nowhere to be seen.
Assuming that she must have been injured given that she was in the hospital, Finnick entered the elevator anxiously and punched the button for the basement carpark. I wonder how bad her injury is. Is it serious?
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 639
Why is the elevator so slow today? Does the service department maintain it on schedule?
Staring at the screen with descending numbers, Finnick could feel the frustration swelling within him. No matter what he did, he was unable to suppress it.
The moment the elevator door opened, he rushed out and ran toward his car.
While rushing to the hospital, Finnick’s mine was filled with images of Vivian lying in a pool of blood. Despite being aware that it was bad luck to think that way, he just couldn’t stop himself from thinking them.
“She will be fine. Don’t panic. I can’t let my imagination run wild. She will definitely be alright….” he repeatedly reassured himself. Only then did he manage to get a grip of his trembling hands that were placed on the steering wheel.
Right after he sped to the hospital, he wanted to check with the nurse which ward was Vivian in. However, he was shocked by the scene that unfolded before him.
“Be careful, try and walk slower.” Vivian was carefully supporting Hunter while nagging him, “The doctor said that you should be resting in bed and not moving around so much. What will you do if your wound opens up?”
“It’s not that serious.” Hunter smiled. “I’ll be bored to death if I keep staying in bed. Coming out for a walk has improved my mood. With a better mood, wouldn’t it help with my recovery?”
Vivian didn’t rebut him as she watched his feet attentively. She was worried one wrong step might aggravate his injuries further.
As Hunter’s wound was on one side below his shoulder, Vivian could only allow him to rest one of his arms on her shoulder for support while she circled her arm around his waist. Only by doing this could she prevent him from falling.
Observing the top of Vivian’s head on his chest while feeling the warmth from her hand around his waist, Hunter couldn’t help but smile and felt that getting injured was well worth the pain this time.
However, Finnick obviously had other ideas.
When he saw that Vivian wasn’t hurt, his first reaction was to heave a sigh of relief. However, anger started brewing inside him the very next moment.
Hunter Yates! He remembered the man’s name. Why is he here? From the looks of it, he seems to be seriously injured. Didn’t Noah say that Vivian was injured? What’s going on?
However, all those questions just flashed past his mind in an instant. The only thing that mattered to him now was Vivian’s hand around Hunter’s waist.
Can’t he move around in a wheelchair after getting injured? Must he come out for a walk like this? Given how intimate they are, I wonder how much their relationship has developed.
Just when Finnick was letting his imagination run wild, Noah caught up panting.
Finnick had left before he could even finish his report. Despite chasing after him, he failed to catch up. Hence, he had no choice but to follow Finnick in his car.
Just when he was about to finish his report to Finnick, Noah noticed that Finnick’s eyes were focused on a particular point while his expression was exceedingly gloomy. Following the trail of his gaze, Noah saw Vivian supporting Hunter.
“Mr. Norton, I didn’t finish my report just now,” Noah quickly turned toward Finnick to explain. “Mrs. Norton wasn’t hurt because Hunter had shielded her from the attack.”
Previously, Finnick had gotten Noah to investigate Hunter and that was how Noah recognized him. Looking at the scene in front of him, Noah couldn’t help but wonder if Vivian would be touched by her savior’s actions.
The same question appeared in Finnick’s mind too. No wonder Vivian is taking such good care of Hunter. As Hunter couldn’t bring himself to hate someone who had saved Vivian, the earlier animosity he felt began to dissipate.
However, he was still jealous of the intimate position they were in.
It seems Hunter has protected her. Will she fall for him? Do we still have a chance at getting back together?
While helping Hunter walk, Vivian suddenly felt that someone was watching her. But when she looked up, she didn’t see anyone familiar.
Never Late, Never Away Chapter 640
“What’s wrong?” Hunter asked when he saw the puzzled look on Vivian’s face.
“It’s nothing.” Vivian shook her head as she figured it was just her imagination. With that thought in mind, she looked toward Hunter. “Alright, we shouldn’t walk for too long. Let’s head back now.”
“Mmm-hmm. Sure,” Hunter replied as he returned to his ward with Vivian’s help.
Finnick appeared from behind a tree after they had left.
Behind him, Noah pondered a moment before asking, “Mr. Norton, do you want to check in on Mrs. Norton?”
“There’s no need to. Let’s go.” Just as he spoke, Finnick turned to leave, hiding the pain and disappointment in his eyes.
When he arrived at his car, Finnick got in the back while Noah naturally seated himself in the driver’s seat.
“Mr. Norton, where are we going next?” Noah asked as he was unable to figure out what was on Finnick’s mind.
However, Finnick didn’t respond. From the rear-view mirror, Noah saw that he was buried deep in his thoughts.
After pondering for a moment, Noah looked up and asked, “Other than Vivian and Hunter, who else was together with them at the opera house?”
“Evelyn was also there,” Noah replied. “Furthermore, I found out that it was she who invited Mrs. Norton to the opera house.”
Before he finished, Noah regretted what he said due to the accusation insinuated by his words. Finnick would definitely think that Evelyn was behind the incident.
However, he had no choice but to report it as it is. Or else, it would only make Finnick suspicious.
Even in Noah’s mind, he had no doubt that it was part of Evelyn’s scheme. Given how ruthless she is, she must have hired an assassin and invited Mrs. Norton out as an excuse to kill her. She really is a lunatic to still insist on hurting Mrs. Norton after all that has happened.
Although Noah hated Evelyn and couldn’t help but wish for Finnick to break ties with her, he was worried that Evelyn might expose him as revenge for their fallout. If she told Finnick about all he had done to Vivian, his career and future would be in jeopardy.
Evelyn Morrison! Clenching his fists, Finnick’s expression was frighteningly gloomy. It seems she did not heed my warning at all.
I forgave her the last time on the account that her legs were crippled. But I didn’t expect her to dare harm Vivian again. This time, I’m not going to let her off the hook!
“Let’s go and see Evelyn,” Finnick ordered in an icy tone, behind it was an insuppressible rage.
From Finnick’s response, Noah realized that he had resolved to teach Evelyn a lesson.
That thought caused him to worry further as he didn’t know how long he could keep his own secret hidden.
As he drove toward Norton residence, he felt extremely nervous. When they arrived, Noah didn’t follow Finnick in and chose to wait outside instead.
“Mr. Norton, I’ll stay outside. I think it’s appropriate that both of you have some privacy to thrash it out.” Noah nervously excused himself.
Grunting in acknowledgment, Finnick didn’t think too much of it as he headed in.
If he was calm as usual, he would definitely have noticed Noah’s unusual behavior. He had never hidden anything from Noah about his relationship with Evelyn. Hence, there was no need for him to suddenly give them space.
However, all Finnick could think of was confronting Evelyn. Therefore, he hardly noticed Noah’s change in behavior.
It had been a long time since he returned. Ever since he found out that Evelyn ordered Vivian’s kidnapping and had a fallout with her, he had moved out of the house and never returned.
The house was filled with memories of his time with Vivian, especially their post-marriage life. Naturally, he was unwilling to leave and considered chasing Evelyn out instead.
However, now that she was a cripple and had no one to rely on, he felt that her punishment was sufficient. If he were to kick her out, she would likely end up on the streets.