Chapter 1

"Let's get a divorce, Vivian."

The words cut through the sizzle of the frying pan. Isabella Lockhart stood frozen, searing steaks while hot oil splattered against her skin. She barely felt the burns.

Nathaniel Blackwood's voice remained cold and detached. "We're only married on paper. After four years, it's time to end this farce."

Vivian's teeth sank into her lower lip.

'So it's finally happening...'

Four years ago, her world collapsed. The Lockhart fortune vanished overnight. Her parents, crushed by debt, chose death over disgrace. They left their daughter to face the ruins alone.

Her grandfather had once saved Alfred Blackwood's life during the war. With his dying breath, he secured his old friend's promise to protect Vivian. Marriage to Nathaniel became her sanctuary.

Over time, Vivian fell for her husband. She believed devotion could melt his icy heart. That her loyalty would eventually be returned.

She was wrong.

"I'm offering forty million dollars and a penthouse in Harborview City. Sign the papers if you accept." Nathaniel slid the documents across the counter. His expression showed this was merely another business deal.

Vivian scanned the numbers. 'Four years of my life, valued at forty million. The Blackwoods never disappoint.'

"Must we do this?" She met his gaze, the documents trembling in her hand.

The man she'd loved for four years possessed devastating beauty. Yet his perfect features remained as distant as the moon. Untouchable. Unreachable.

"Yes." No hesitation colored his reply.

Pain lanced through Vivian's heart, but she refused to beg. After repeatedly slamming against his walls, she recognized defeat.

'Fine. Forty million for four years of marriage. More than fair.'

"Alright." She snatched the pen and signed with decisive strokes.

Nathaniel blinked, surprised by her swift compliance. The Vivian he knew was fragile. Indecisive. A frightened rabbit constantly seeking protection.

Her sudden strength left a bitter taste in his mouth.

"I'll notify you once the documents are filed. I want you gone by tonight." He dismissed the uncomfortable feeling and turned away.

His message was clear. No discussion would be entertained.

That evening, the housekeeper hurled Vivian's belongings from the villa. The woman had never shown respect, but now her contempt became vicious.

"Gold-digging trash! Finally getting what you deserve!"

Vivian knelt on the cold pavement, gathering her scattered clothes. The night wind whipped around her, deepening her humiliation.

Tires crunched on gravel behind her. A sleek car pulled up, and a tall, slender woman emerged.

"Miss Delacroix! What an honor!" The abusive housekeeper transformed into a fawning servant.

Cassandra Delacroix ignored the woman. "Handle my luggage carefully. You could never repay anything you break."

Vivian's body turned to stone. In that moment, everything became clear.