Ch. 651..660

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 651

There was no longer fear in her heart. She bit his lips fiercely and immediately tasted a metallic tang in her mouth.

“F**k!” The man cursed as he did not expect to be bitten by her. In pain, he let go of her lips and stared at her with a slight annoyance in his eyes.

When did she learn this? She had never bit me before.

After he released her, Vivian was finally able to speak. “Finnick, what the heck are you doing? Let me go now!”

The man was a bit frustrated that Vivian recognized him, but at the same time, he was delighted. She does know me, after all…

Using his thumb to wipe the blood from the corner of his mouth, he took off Vivian’s black blindfold.

The blinding flash glared in her face, and Vivian closed her eyes subconsciously. Seeing this, guilt and compassion flashed through Finnick’s eyes. He quickly covered her eyes with his hands.

After getting used to the brightness, Vivian flung Finnick’s hand away. Seeing the man in front of her, she suddenly became enraged and struggled violently. “Let me go!”

With one hand, Finnick firmly held Vivian’s wrist in front of his chest. Although he had specially requested those people to make a rope out of fabric, he was still worried that it would hurt her.

Unable to struggle , Vivian became angrier. “Finnick, untie the rope now! Why the heck did you bring me here?”

“I just wanted to talk to you.” Not paying attention to Vivian’s scolding, Finnick gazed at her with tenderness and affection. “Vivian, I miss you.”

“Is this how you show that you are missing someone?” Vivian scowled at him. “Do you know that you are breaking the law? If you don’t let me go, I swear I will sue you for kidnapping after I leave!”

“Then I will have to stay here with you forever so that you won’t have a chance to leave,” Finnick mumbled solemnly. At that moment, Vivian was unable to distinguish if he was joking.

“How dare you!” Discerning the seriousness in Finnick’s eyes, slight panic crept across her heart again.

“Well, I guess I’m just that kind of a risk-taker,” Finnick uttered softly, staring at her eyes. “But, I’m not willing to.”

“Finnick, you…” Vivian was lost for words, feeling she was being fooled.

Upon Vivian’s speechlessness, Finnick gave a petty laugh. “Vivian, I was joking with you.”

“I’m not in the mood for jokes. Untie me now!” Vivian was about to go nuts by the minute.

Here I am, being kidnapped by my ex-husband for no reason. Could this be any more absurd? Are you freakin’ kidding me?

“If I untie you, you will leave,” Finnick murmured with helplessness in his tone. “Vivian, how long have we not spoken properly? Don’t worry. I just want to chat with you for a while. I will ask Noah to send you back later.”

Seeing that Finnick had insisted on keeping her hostage, Vivian turned her head aside in frustration and ignored him. Is this the Finnick I know? He even dares to kidnap me now!

With an outstretched arm, Finnick touched Vivian’s cheek gently as he gazed at her, his heart aching when he did so. “Vivian, we haven’t seen each other for so many years. Don’t you miss me at all?”

That question brought back her bitter memories once again. Right then, Vivian suddenly remembered the time she gave birth to Larry.

Due to the abnormal fetal position, she suffered a lot during delivery. Where were you when I needed you the most? Where were you when I suffered through the pain all alone in the labor room?

Vivian tried hard to prevent her tears from falling. “No, not a single bit. You have no idea how happy my life is without you.”

“Is that so?” Finnick smiled bitterly. “But I’m not happy at all. For the first two years, I could still sense your presence everywhere, but it turned out to be my own imagination. Vivian, did you know that all these years, I’ve… “

“Please just stop!” Vivian interrupted Finnick abruptly. “It’s all in the past, and there’s no chance that we’ll get back together. So what’s the point of saying all these now?”

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 652

If you missed me so much and couldn’t bear to let me go, why did you force me to abort my child back then? Why did you want to be with Evelyn? Are all men heartless liars like you?

“Is… is this really the end?” Finnick asked after hearing Vivian’s words. His expression was full of tension.

“Yes.” Vivian replied softly but firmly.

“Why?” Finnick became anxious. He was unintentional about what happened back then. Why isn’t Vivian willing to give me a chance?

“No reason,” Vivian said, “I don’t like you anymore, so naturally, I won’t be with you again.”

“Is it because of Hunter? Are you with him now?” Is she really in love with another man? Is that why she won’t give me a chance to atone for my mistakes?

Hearing Finnick’s words, Vivian almost laughed. He still had trust issues like before. That tragedy would not have happened if he had not doubted that the child was not his.

Even now, he’s starting to suspect that there’s something between Hunter and me when I’ve only been seen with him a few times.

Although Vivian had no intentions to be with Finnick again, she did not plan to lie to him either. It was exhausting enough to deceive Evelyn. With the addition of Finnick, she had no doubt her mental state would be in shambles.

“No, I’m not seeing anyone,” Vivian answered emotionlessly.

“Really?” A hint of joy surfaced on Finnick’s face. “Vivian, since you’re not seeing anyone, why don’t we…”

“There is no ‘we’!” Vivian glared at Finnick, fuming with rage. “Even if I am not with Hunter, I will never be with you. Period. I told you – there’s no chance between us, so please let me go now.”

Seeing how determined Vivian was, Finnick’s heart ached. Despite that, he had made up his mind and would not give up easily.

“Vivian, I know what I did five years ago was wrong. I’m really sorry. But I totally understand that you’re unable to forgive me that easily. I get it.”

“I am glad you understand. However, we could never return to the past, so letting me go is the best choice. From now on, let’s go our own way.”

She said it coolly, without an expression on her face. Yet, for some reason, she still felt an unexplainable sadness in her heart, knowing that Finnick would give up on them.

It must be because of Larry. Larry has never been with his biological father since the day he was born. And I am afraid that he will never have this opportunity in the future. It is my fault that he grew up without a father… It’s all my fault.

Shaking his head, Finnick got closer to Vivian, the tips of their nose almost touching.

“You misunderstood what I meant. I won’t give up on you. I gave you up once five years ago, so I won’t let this happen again ever again. I swear!” Finnick uttered with an earnest tone. “Vivian, I’ve decided that I want to start pursuing you again.”

Vivian was stunned by Finnick’s words. Huh? What did he just say? He wants to start pursuing me again?

It took a long time for Vivian to digest this. Calming down from the shock, she pushed Finnick away. “I told you – it’s over.”

“In that case, I’ll start from anew!” Finnick got up from Vivian’s body and untied the rope that bound her hands and feet.

Finnick stood in front of the sofa. “Vivian, I know that the way I brought you here today is inappropriate. But if I don’t do this, I’m afraid you won’t agree to meet. Now that I’ve finished what I wanted to say, I’ll ask Noah to take you back.”

After that, Finnick took out his phone and made a call, asking Noah to come up immediately.

Hanging up the phone, Finnick looked at Vivian hesitantly. “Vivian, do you have anything else you’d like to tell me?”

Rubbing her burning wrist, Vivian shook her head. Except for her rejection, she did not know what else she could say to Finnick.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 653

With disappointment in his eyes, Finnick continued, “I still have something I want to say to you. Although I have said it before, I still want to tell you again. My purpose in bringing you here today is to tell this. Vivian, I will never give up on you.”

“We… “ Vivian wanted to reject again but was interrupted by Finnick.

“Don’t… say that there’s no chance between us again. Vivian, you’re not seeing anyone at the moment, so I have the right to pursue you again. Heck, even if you’re married, I still won’t give up on you.” Finnick’s gaze was extraordinarily unyielding.

“Are you going to be a homewrecker then?” Vivian felt that the man standing in front of her currently was so different from the Finnick she used to know.

“I don’t mind as long as it’s you. You’re destined to be mine in this life!” Finnick replied.

Staring at Finnick incredulously, Vivian did not know what she should say. If this was truly how he feels, why would he do such a thing back then?

The two of them just stared at each other while sinking into an endless silence.

Just then, there was a knock on the door. After a final gaze at Vivian, Finnick turned around and opened the door. It was Noah.

Looking at Vivian, Finnick then instructed Noah. “Send her back.”

“Yes, sir.” In response, Noah walked towards Vivian. “Mrs. Norton, I’ll send you back.”

Hearing what Noah called her, Vivian felt a little awkward. We’re clearly divorced, Noah… Why is he still referring to me as Mrs. Norton?

“Noah, it is better that you don’t…” Vivian paused halfway. It’s just a name, after all. If I worry about it too much, it might seem like I care about it. Gah… Just forget it.

“Mrs. Norton, what’s the matter?” Noah asked in befuddlement as Vivian did not finish her sentence.

“It’s nothing.” Shaking her head, Vivian stood up and strolled towards the door. “Please send me back. Thank you.”

Initially, she wanted to go back by herself. However, she had recalled that she was brought all the way here with a blindfold over her eyes. Hence, she had no idea where she was.

“You’re welcome, Mrs. Norton.” Noah hurriedly followed behind her.

With that, Vivian left hastily towards the door. She did not even take a look at Finnick when she walked past him. Noah, who was following her, bowed slightly towards Finnick. “Mr. Norton, I will send Mrs. Norton home. “

“Drive safe,” Finnick reminded with concern.

“Yes, sir.” Nodding, Noah tried to catch up with Vivian’s pace again.

When the two finally left, Finnick suddenly felt a sense of fatigue. He headed to the sofa and lay down, carefully taking in the scent that Vivian left on it.

What can I do to get her back?

Gazing at Vivian in the rearview mirror, Noah was full of guilt. The scene of her crying and begging him arose in his mind. If I hadn’t help Evelyn, Mr. and Mrs. Norton would not have been separated.

Inadvertently raising her head, Vivian’s eyes met with Noah’s in the rearview mirror.

“What’s wrong?” Looking at the expression on Noah’s face, she felt that he had something to say to her.

Shocked by Vivian’s question, Noah nervously turned away from her gaze. “It’s nothing.”

Feeling unsure about Noah’s response, Vivian nodded regardless. She then recalled what Finnick said earlier. What did he mean by “start pursuing me again”? How exactly does he plan to do so? No matter what he does, I will never change my mind. I won’t allow myself to repeat the same stupid mistake.

After struggling for a while, Noah finally opened his mouth hesitantly. “Mrs. Norton, I’m sorry for what happened back then. It was actually my fault. I shouldn’t… I… “

Noah wanted to confess to Vivian that Evelyn was the one who schemed everything back then, and it had nothing to do with Finnick. The words were on the tip of his tongue, but he was unable to say them.

Hearing what Noah said, Vivian broke off from her own thoughts. All those memories came flashing back once again.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 654

It was impossible that Vivian didn’t blame Noah at all. But she knew that it was not entirely the latter’s fault. He was just following Finnick’s order, after all.

“It’s okay. I know that incident has nothing to do with you. You are just following the order,” said Vivian.

Seeing as Vivian being so forgiving, Noah felt even more apologetic. “Mrs. Norton, it’s not like that. I-I…”

Noah wanted to muster up his courage and reveal the truth, but he failed to do so.

“Okay, stop it. I don’t want to continue dwelling on this topic anymore. Keep your eyes on the road.” Vivian could feel a tinge of remorse in Noah’s tone, but she didn’t want to recall the incident that occurred back then ever again.

Hearing that, Noah didn’t say anything else. But, he couldn’t focus on driving either. At that time, he contemplated whether to tell Vivian the truth.

Without knowing it, the car had reached the Morrison residence. Vivian opened the door and got out of the car. After waving her hand at Noah, she turned and headed in the direction of the door.

Staring at Vivian’s back, Noah had a mental bout of tug-of-war. But in the end, he decided to keep mum about the truth. To him, it was too difficult to make a confession and explain everything to the former.

After reaching home, Vivian found that Benedict was sitting on the sofa with an anxious expression on his face.

Hence, she walked toward the latter and asked, “Ben, what’s wrong?”

“Vivian!” When Benedict saw her, he sprang up, and his face gleamed with delight. But soon, he said with a serious tone, “Where have you been? Why didn’t you pick up my call? I’m worried sick about you, do you know that?”

“What?” Hearing that, Vivian immediately grabbed her phone from her bag. Then, she noticed that she had several missed calls. “Sorry, Ben. I set my phone on silent mode, so I didn’t hear it ringing.”

Upon seeing guilt on Vivian’s face, Benedict softened his tone and signaled for the former to sit down. “Don’t forget to turn on the ringtone next time. I thought something happened to you just now. Where did you go?”

“I-I went to see Finnick,” Vivian answered truthfully.

“Why do you want to meet him?” asked Benedict while frowning. Then, he scrutinized Vivian and queried, “Did he do anything to you?”

“No. He just asked me out and told me something,” answered Vivian. She didn’t want to let Benedict know how Finnick asked her out.

“What did he say?”

“He said he wants to pursue me again.”

“No way. I can’t let this happen!” When Benedict heard that, molten anger rolled through him. “Vivian, he doesn’t deserve you anymore since he did such things to you back then. If you agree to get back together with him, I’m afraid that he’ll treat you that way again. Listen to me, Vivian. You can’t say yes. If you fall for him again, you’ll be hurt once again.”

Seeing that Benedict was a little agitated, Vivian immediately consoled him, “Don’t worry, Ben. I didn’t plan to get back together with him. I’m no longer the silly girl, Vivian William. I won’t do anything that will subject myself to misery anymore.”

“It’s good that you know it.” A sense of relief washed over Benedict upon hearing Vivian’s response.

He had witnessed the hellish suffering that Vivian had experienced five years ago with his own eyes. Even until now, the latter still hadn’t recovered from it. Therefore, he was afraid that Vivian wouldn’t be able to bear it if the same thing happened again.

On the other hand, Larry, who was eavesdropping on their conversation, let out a grin when he heard that. Get mommy back? Wow! Daddy is so cool. It seems like I’m going to live with dad and mom soon.

It was a sleepless night for Vivian that night as she tossed and turned in bed. Finnick’s words occupied her mind and were impossible to erase.

She couldn’t explain why she felt delighted when she knew that Finnick had the intention of getting her back. She didn’t even dare to think further about that because she was afraid that she couldn’t accept it.

That night, she didn’t sleep a wink. She finally fell asleep when it was nearly dawn. After sleeping for two hours, she was awakened by the shrill sound of her alarm.

Then, she went to work with dark circles around her eyes in a daze. Just as she stepped foot into the magazine company, she saw Sarah dashed toward her.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 655

“Vivian, why are you so late? Something big has happened!”

Hearing that, Vivian regained her senses immediately. When she saw other colleagues were also looking at her with worried expressions on their faces, she felt like something terrible happened.

“What’s going on?” queried Vivian with a stern expression on her face.

“Our magazine company was acquired by a big company!” replied Sarah nervously.

Vivian was shocked at the former’s words and frowned as she asked, “What? Why didn’t I receive the news from the head office? Who did you hear that from?”

Right when Sarah was about to answer the former, another colleague cut her off, “This morning, a person who claimed to be the general manager’s assistant of Century Media came and informed us that our magazine company was acquired by their company. But there is no manpower shift within our company. You’re still the Chief Editor. Oh, by the way, he asked you to attend a meeting in their company this afternoon.”

Vivian heaved a sigh of relief when she heard that because there was a silver lining in the incident. At least there’s no personnel change. Otherwise, I won’t know how to explain to the colleagues with whom I interact on a daily basis.

But that’s odd! This incident happens too abruptly. I haven’t heard anything about this before.

As far as I know, Century Media is an entertainment company that has been progressing well and has a good reputation in the industry. Since they had bought over our magazine company, it’s weird that they don’t make any personnel changes and still keep current staff. Although this is what made me felt relieved, it doesn’t make sense at all.

With those thoughts running wild in her head, Vivian had a bad premonition. She felt that something terrible was about to happen.

“Alright. At the very least, there’s no personnel change in our company. This is not a bad thing. We can still work together. Get back to your work now. I’ll tell you more about that after I attend the meeting later.”

After comforting the staff, Vivian went back to her office. However, she couldn’t focus on her work at all.

The whole incident is extremely strange! What on earth is going on?

Meanwhile, the other colleagues in the magazine company were the same as Vivian. They weren’t in the mood to work at that time and were chatting about the company’s acquisition.

In the afternoon, Vivian arrived at Century Media on time based on the address given. When the receptionist heard Vivian’s name, she immediately took the latter to the meeting room on the second floor.

By the time Vivian entered the meeting room, she was utterly stunned when she saw the person sitting at the head of the table. Why is Finnick here? I’ve never heard that he is related to Century Media.

Upon seeing Vivian stood rooted at the entrance, the staff who was standing aside walked towards her hurriedly and said softly, “Are you Vivian? This is your seat. The meeting is about to begin. Please be seated.”

Coming back to her sense, Vivian followed the staff to her seat deliriously while thinking about how Finnick was related to the acquisition of her company.

Soon, the meeting began. Finnick didn’t look at Vivian even once. He just focused on listening to the work reports from the supervisors of each department, pointed out their mistakes, and set the following goals in their works.

Vivian didn’t focus on the meeting at all. She was dying to know what exactly was going on. Actually, she wanted to ask the people around her, but she was afraid to do so because she didn’t know any of them.

At that time, a girl who sat beside her noticed that she looked anxious. Then, the former whispered, “Are you the Chief Editor of the magazine company that our company recently acquired?”

“Yes, I am,” Vivian answered hastily and asked, “Do you know why is Finnick here? Isn’t he the president of Finnor Group?”

“You don’t know?” That girl looked at her, baffled. Then, the former explained, “Century Media is the subsidiary of Finnor Group. Naturally, Mr. Norton is our boss. It’s him who decided to buy over your magazine company yesterday. But we just did not expect he would take action that fast.”

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 656

“Anyway, we are colleagues from now on. I’m looking forward to working with you.” That girl smiled brightly.

Vivian plastered a smile on her face and replied, “I’m excited to be working with you too.”

It’s Finnick! What is he trying to do? When Vivian recalled what Finnick said yesterday, a fresh swell of rage rose in her. Finnick, you scumbag! How dare you treat my work as a joke!

Just as Vivian was still simmering with rage, she heard Finnick’s voice, “The last one is our new staff, Vivian Morrison, the Chief Editor of the magazine company. Ms. Morrison, please tell me about the work progress of the magazine company.”

She had no courage to question Finnick in front of everyone, so she suppressed her wrath and followed Finnick’s order.

After listening to Vivian’s report, Finnick didn’t respond to that. Instead, he said, “Ms. Morrison, since it is part of the job, you have to drop by Century Media every week to report the work progress of the magazine company to me in person. That’s all for today. We’ll end the meeting here.”

With that, Finnick got up and was ready to leave the meeting room.

Vivian called out his name in a panic when she saw the former walked past her. “Mr. Norton, I have to ask you something.”

Without looking at Vivian, Finnick continued walking and replied formulaically, “Follow me to my office.”

At that, Vivian clenched her hands into fists and followed him closely.

The minute both of them left the meeting room, the staff in the room exploded into a discussion.

“What’s wrong with Mr. Norton? Report work progress every week? I think he meddles too much.”

“Ms. Morrison looks quite pretty. Could it be that Mr. Norton fancies her, so he asked her to report the work progress to him that frequently?”

“Hmm… Your words make sense. If not, why did Mr. Norton buys the magazine company in a hurry and even keeps their current staff?”

At that moment, a male colleague couldn’t bear listening to their speculations anymore and said, “Hey, guys. Are you serious? Don’t tell me that you don’t know anything about the relationship between Mr. Norton and Ms. Morrison.”

“Do you have any insider information? Quick, tell us!” Hearing his words, everyone got excited and urged him.

“Guys, after all, we are in the media industry. How can you know nothing about our boss’ gossips? The Chief Editor, Ms. Morrison is our boss’ ex-wife!” said the male colleague with a proud expression on his face.

“What? Are you sure the information is credible?” A look of shock flashed across everyone’s faces upon hearing that.

“Yes. I’m completely certain of it.” That man answered firmly.

After an astonishing moment, the staff’s incredulity transformed into comprehension.

“So, why did Mr. Norton all these things? Is he trying to get his ex-wife back?”

“I think so. If not, is there a need for Mr. Norton to go through so much trouble?”

“Then, do you think his ex-wife will agree to get back together with him? Do we need to greet her more politely when we see her next time?”

Meanwhile, Vivian was questioning Finnick angrily in the latter’s office. She didn’t know that her relationship with Finnick had already spread like wildfire in the new company at that time.

“Finnick! What exactly are you trying to do? Why Did you acquire the magazine company?”

Finnick didn’t mind that Vivian shouted at him hot-temperedly. When he heard her words, he replied with a gentle tone, “Vivian, I already told you yesterday. I want to get back together with you.”

“So you treat my work as a joke?” Vivian felt that the former had gone off the rails.

“I didn’t treat your work as a joke. I have thought of it thoroughly before making the decision. Century Media can help in the development of the magazine company. It can provide your company with better media and financial support. Moreover, I’ve retained all current staff.”

“Do you think I will feel grateful to you for doing that?” Vivian’s words came out in a mocking tone. Is he trying to take credit for what he had done?

Upon hearing that, Finnick approached Vivian and replied, “Vivian, I’m not asking for your gratitude. I just want to get closer to you. We can work together from now on. Isn’t this a good thing?”

“No! I don’t think so!” Vivian stepped two steps back and pulled away from Finnick. Then, she continued, “I can’t work with you! I want to resign!”

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 657

Is she willing to forsake her job to run away from me? Finnick’s heart ached because he could vividly recall the passion she had for her job.

He kept his emotions to himself and provoked her. “Are you sure? The Vivian I used to know would never give up easily!”

“Vivian William had passed on five years ago! Currently, you’re talking to Vivian Morrison! I will never allow you to get the better of me again!”

After Vivian yelled at Finnick, she stomped her steps away. Does he really think he’s able to threaten me? No way!

Staring at Vivian’s departing figure, Finnick sank into his chair. His hands unwittingly balled into fists when he recalled the words she had enunciated.

She’s still the one and only Vivian I know! He was certain she was the one and only he had in mind. Therefore, he refused to give up just yet.

On her way back to the magazine company, Vivian couldn’t make up her mind if she should tender her resignation. Truth be told, she couldn’t bear to leave her job and her fellow colleagues.

After their collective effort over the past two months, the sales of the company had drastically increased. She might regret her action should she leave when the best was about to come.

On top of that, she had a great time working alongside her colleagues. They had formed a dynamic working relationship. Should she quit, she would have to start all over again.

However, if she refused to quit, she would have to encounter Finnick at least once a week. She was particularly against that. What should I do? Isn’t there a win-win situation?

She returned to the magazine company with the issue unsolved. The moment she walked into the office, she heard her colleagues cheering.

Caroline was the first to drag Vivian over to the computer. “Look! The result for the total copies of the latest issue sold is out! We’re still the champion! I can’t believe it!”

“Are you serious?” Vivian was equally thrilled. She moved the mouse and perused the data on the screen.

“Vivian, it’s all thanks to your interview with Hunter! You’re awesome! I can already foresee the future of our company under your guidance!” Sarah rushed over and wrapped her arms around Vivian.

“She’s right, Vivian!” Ken, who was aside, played along and asserted, “I can’t believe we’re the champion twice in a role! We’re no longer the same in the industry!”

“Do you have any idea how proud I am? One of my friends from the industry asked me if there’s any vacant slot! He said he wanted to join the company because of the bright future awaiting him!”

“Our Chief Editor is the best! Hip hip hooray!” Someone initiated the cheers and started expressing their admiration. It was evident they really appreciated Vivian’s effort.

“Wait!” Sarah stopped her colleagues and said, “We should get her to treat us to a meal!”

Applauding, the rest of the crowd started cheering, “Please buy us a meal, our beloved Chief Editor!”

Vivian was overwhelmed with a sense of achievement when she caught a glimpse of her colleagues’ expressions. They were serious when they said they truly appreciated her effort.

Thus, she gave up on the thought of tendering her resignation because she couldn’t bear to leave her team after the series of events they had gone through. She wasn’t the one at fault back in the days. In other words, she wouldn’t have to run away from him.

When she made up her mind, she felt as though a heavy boulder had been lifted off her shoulders. I need to stop overthinking things! It doesn’t really matter if I’m going to run into Finnick at least once every week! It’s nothing but part of my job!

Vivian shrugged her concerns off her mind once she made up her mind. She decided to devote herself to the series of challenges in store for her.

Instead of overthinking things that had yet to occur, she decided to live in the moment and enjoy doing things she was passionate about.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 658

Since they managed to top the chart twice in a role, everyone felt motivated for the challenges in the future. They secretly hoped they could top the chart for three consecutive months, but it would be easier said than done.

In order to achieve the ambitious goal, they took various factors into consideration before deciding the appropriate candidate for the upcoming interview.

It was the third meeting of the week, but the meeting was dismissed without a clear goal to act upon because they couldn’t decide on a suitable candidate.

“As the most renowned architect in Sunshine City, Norman is relatively famous as compared to the last two candidates, but I don’t think he’s the best candidate because the audience tends to judge a book by its cover.”

In spite of being a rookie, Charlotte was known for her capability and gorgeous look. Therefore, others found her words reasonable.

Soon, someone added, “I agree because the reason the last issue managed to garner the attention of the audience was Hunter’s exceptional look. Although it has been quite a few weeks, we still receive comments from his fans. Therefore, I’m afraid Norman doesn’t have what it takes to top the chart.”

Another attendee of the meeting said, “With that being said, we don’t have a better candidate in mind. We need to make up our minds as soon as possible because we’re running out of time. Otherwise, we can’t possibly produce quality content.”

Everyone went dead silent at that score. They were afraid things would head south if they made a reckless decision, but they were running out of time as well.

“Why don’t we conduct a follow-up interview with Hunter?” Sarah broke the silence and suggested, “Since the launching of the last issue, the reader has gained an increasing interest in Hunter. Shall we ride the wave of success and try our luck?”

Her fellow colleagues felt a sense of revelation when they heard her. “She’s right! Since Hunter is the most famous bachelor in Sunshine City, I think it’s fine to conduct another interview with him!”

“If Hunter is portrayed on the cover again, I won’t mind buying another issue!”

“I agree!”

“Me too!”

…

Sarah’s colleagues were keen to proceed with her suggestion. Vivian was the only one who had yet to make her stand clear.

“Since everyone agrees, I’ll consult the higher-ups soon. I’ll revert back to the team before the end of the day. With that, let’s dismiss,” Vivian announced.

She was of the same opinion as well, but since Finnick had become her supervisor, she would have to get his consent before proceeding.

Coincidentally, it was the time of the week again—she would have to report the summary she had gathered.

After the rest walked out of the meeting room, Vivian got anxious all of a sudden. Although it was part of her job to meet Finnick, she had a hard time carrying herself in a calm and collected manner. She took a deep breath in an attempt to collect her thoughts that were all over the place.

In the afternoon, Vivian initiated a call and confirmed Finnick was in his office in Century Media before making her way over.

Immediately after he hung up the call, Finnick rushed all the way to the parking lot of Finnor Group and made his way to Century Media. He was all smiles when he was on his way there.

She was still the woman he used to know—never would she give up without putting on a fight. He knew he made the right choice because it was the first time she initiated a call ever since she was back.

By the time she reached the company, Vivian noticed the odd expressions of the onlookers. Perhaps they had gotten their hands on her relationship with Finnick.

Sighing in her mind, Vivian knew she didn’t have the time for the gossipmongers. She made her way to Finnick’s office right away. She knocked on the door and made her way in when she heard his voice.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 659

“Mr. Norton.” Vivian bowed at Finnick’s presence, indicating she was there as his subordinate.

“Have a seat.” He beckoned her over to join him.

Vivian cut the small talk and took a seat as instructed, showing him the summary of the progress over the past week.

Finnick felt awful because Vivian had made herself clear; the sole reason she was there was for work. He couldn’t do anything about it because he ran out of better ideas to reach her.

“Mr. Norton, Hunter is the candidate for our upcoming issue because we wish to ride the wave of the last issue’s success.” After she finished reporting the summary, Vivian brought up the proposal to acquire Finnick’s consent.

“No!”

When Finnick turned her down without a second thought, Vivian got worked up. “Why? The decision has been collectively made after much consideration. Hunter is the best candidate. Can you please reconsider your decision, Mr. Norton?”

“Do I need a reason to turn down the proposal? Is there anything else?” Finnick’s expression darkened out of the blue.

He couldn’t be bothered if Hunter was the best candidate or not because he would never allow her anywhere his rival.

At the end of the day, Finnick was her supervisor. Therefore, she couldn’t possibly defy him during work. Albeit reluctantly, Vivian had no choice but to listen to Finnick.

After he turned down the proposal, Finnick directed a few simple questions at Vivian, including the composition of text, the areas to be focused on, and the corresponding market research.

Vivian was infuriated because she had included those in the summary a few minutes ago. Is he trying to waste my time? Has he not paid attention? If he doesn’t really care, why has he summoned me here?

Although she was fed up, she managed to keep her composure and put on a calm front.

She knew she was there as Finnick’s subordinate. Therefore, she had no right to throw a tantrum in front of him. In the end, she repeated herself and answered his questions.

“Do you prefer Pillere Island or Moranta?” Finnick asked a completely irrelevant question out of the blue.

“Pillere Island.” Subconsciously, Vivian answered the question before she could grasp the situation. “May I know what this is about, Mr. Norton?”

Smiling, instead of answering her queries, Finnick instructed Noah, who happened to be in the office, “We’ll throw a party to celebrate the magazine company’s success on Pillere Island. Can you please get everything ready?”

Noah took note of Finnick’s instruction and bowed at Vivian before making his way out of the office.

When Vivian heard Finnick’s instructions, she got increasingly confused. “Why are you throwing a party abroad out of the blue?”

“Consider this an effort to appreciate the staff’s hard work since the last two issues topped the chart! We need to motivate them and nurture their passion with appropriate compensation,” Finnick explained the rationale behind his action.

“Don’t worry. The holding company has the expenses for the trip covered. You just have to bring your staff with you and enjoy yourselves. I’m sure they’re going to have a great time.”

Vivian found Finnick’s words reasonable. In fact, they would have to work harder than ever before to ensure the consistency of quality. Thus, it would be necessary for them to break every now and then.

“If that’s the case, on behalf of my colleagues, allow me to express our utmost gratitude.” Vivian’s expression finally eased up.

He felt awful because she had been addressing him as Mr. Norton since she stepped into his office. Nonetheless, the fact she was willing to talk to him indicated things had improved.

He had no choice but to play along and beat around the bush in a similar manner. “They totally deserve it. The tentative date for the trip is next Friday. Once you’re back, tell them the great news and get them to get ready.”

Vivian nodded and wrapped up their conversation. She couldn’t get used to the overly formal conversation they had either.

“Mr. Norton, is there anything else you need? If there isn’t, allow me to excuse myself. There are quite a few things that require my attention back in the office. The team is still waiting for my instructions.”

“There’s nothing else. You’re to go.” Finnick was afraid his action would be over the top and irritate her. Therefore, he stopped getting in her way.

Never Late, Never Away Chapter 660

“See you again, Mr. Norton.” Vivian nodded and walked out of the office.

Staring at her departing figure, Finnick’s eyes flickered in misery.

Whenever she walked away from him, he would feel as if she was about to leave him forever. He was determined to brace himself until the day she returned to him. Someday, he would keep her by his side forever.

Meanwhile, the moment Vivian returned to her office, her pumped-up colleagues surrounded her again. “Vivian, have we acquired the consent from our higher-ups to conduct an interview with Hunter?”

Vivian shook her head with a serious expression and said, “Unfortunately, we need to come up with another candidate.”

“Huh? Why?”

“Hunter is the only one I have in mind! What’s going on with those from the headquarter?”

“Duh? How are we supposed to get someone else for the interview? I guess Norman is our only choice.”

“Are we able to top the chart for three consecutive months? I’m still waiting for a pay raise after achieving a seemingly impossible feat!”

…

When the rest of the staff heard the bad news, they started complaining. They were equally dejected with despair written all over their faces.

“Let’s forget about the bad news for the time being because I have another great news for everyone!” Vivian announced with a bright grin, interrupting the sulking bunch.

“What is it?” Sarah asked in a hushed voice because she was overwhelmed by the bad news.

Initially, she had the draft and the composition of Hunter’s upcoming interview ready. To her surprise, things turned out the other way. I need to do everything from scratch again! I guess there goes my weekend, huh?

“Since the last two issues had topped the chart of Sunshine City, the company has decided to conduct a trip to Pillere Island over the next weekend! All the expenses will be covered by the company!”

Vivian was surrounded by her colleagues once again when they heard the great news.

“Are you serious? We’re going abroad for a trip over the next weekend?”

“Oh, God! The higher-ups are such a generous bunch! I love my boss!”

“That’s wonderful! I can’t believe I finally get to take a breather! I’m on the verge of losing my mind after all the things we have been through!”

…

The sulking bunch cheered and felt as though they had taken a trip from hell to heaven within a few minutes.

“Calm down, everyone! We’ll depart on the upcoming Friday! Please get everything ready by then, but for the time being, let’s return to work because we’re still in the middle of working hours!” Vivian beckoned her colleagues back to their seats.

They returned to their respective seats with a bright grin. Happiness was in the air throughout the rest of the day.

After Vivian returned to her office, she gave Finnick’s instructions another thought and found them contradicting. It felt as though it was compensation for the misery he had caused.

Soon, it was Friday. Vivian made her way to the airport right away because she had told everyone to gather at the airport at ten o’clock in the morning.

To her surprise, the moment she reached the airport, she saw someone whose name wasn’t on the list—Finnick.

Can anyone tell me the reason he’s here? Why haven’t I heard of anything about him tagging along? If I’m aware he’s tagging along, there’s no way I’m making the trip! However, I can’t possibly call off the trip when I have reached the airport, can I?

“Vivian!” Sarah and Vivian’s colleagues rushed over and showed her the way in immediately. “Is Finnick the mysterious man who has acquired the company? He showed up out of nowhere and said he would be tagging along with us!”

Vivian nodded and announced, “As of now, Century Media is a subsidiary of Finnor Group.”

Sarah was dumbfounded. She probed further, “Why? Does that mean you have returned to the headquarter for a meeting with Finnick? Has he acquired the company because of you?”

“You need to stop overthinking things because he has acquired our company for financial gains and opportunities in the market.” Vivian denied it, yet she knew that wasn’t the case.

“Oh…” Sarah had her doubts but decided to play along with Vivian. Seconds later, she asked, “Vivian, are you still coming along? When others figured out he was the mysterious man behind the acquisition, they had been wondering the sort of relationship you had with him.”

If I don’t make the trip, isn’t it obvious something fishy is going on between us?

“Of course! It’s not a big deal, isn’t it? Why can’t I make the trip when we’re merely colleagues?” Vivian responded with a smile and approached Finnick.