Chapter 136

The auditorium erupted in applause the moment the host concluded the introduction.

Every industry leader and VIP fixed their gaze on the entrance, anticipation thick in the air. Whoever walked through those doors would shape the future of electronics technology for the next four years.

Spotlights illuminated a striking figure entering the room. Vivian Lockhart commanded attention in her tailored black power suit, her chestnut hair secured in an elegant chignon.

"Impossible!" Ethan Young blurted out, rubbing his eyes. "Tell me I'm hallucinating - that's Mrs. Blackwood!"

Nathaniel Blackwood's brow furrowed as he took in Vivian's poised demeanor, clearly unprepared for this development.

With effortless grace, Vivian ascended the podium. Her piercing gaze swept across the assembled crowd. "Good afternoon," she announced, her voice steady. "I'm Vivian Lockhart, your newly appointed director of the Electronics Technology Association."

Gone were her usual casual outfits or glamorous evening gowns. Today, Vivian embodied professional perfection - the sharp lines of her suit accentuated by silver-framed glasses that lent her an air of sharp intelligence.

The fitted pencil skirt highlighted her curves, while sheer stockings drew attention to her toned legs, adding subtle sensuality to her polished look. Unsurprisingly, every male gaze in the room locked onto her the moment she appeared.

Yet despite her stunning appearance, these were industry titans accustomed to substance over style. They wouldn't tolerate an unqualified woman occupying such a crucial position. As the initial awe faded, murmurs of discontent rippled through the crowd.

"Isn't that Blackwood's ex-wife? Did she get lost on her way to the divorce support group?"

"Have standards fallen so low that they're picking directors off the street now? This is an insult to our industry!"

The host shifted uncomfortably as waves of skepticism threatened to derail the event.

"Please," the host implored, raising his hands for quiet. "Ms. Lockhart has met every qualification for this position. Her credentials are impeccable - with degrees from Stanford and Cambridge, plus numerous publications in prestigious journals worldwide. We've been blind to her accomplishments, seeing only 'Mrs. Blackwood' until now."

He paused for emphasis. "Most importantly, she's the primary investor behind this summit and was personally selected by Mr. Y as director. That endorsement speaks volumes."

The mention of Mr. Y's involvement silenced the crowd instantly. If the legendary investor stood behind her, perhaps there was more to this woman than met the eye.

Vivian's lips curved into a composed smile as she lifted the microphone. "I understand your skepticism. You see a discarded wife, a woman you assume has nothing to offer beyond her failed marriage." Her voice gained strength. "But I'll prove every one of your assumptions wrong through my work and vision."

Then she launched into her inaugural address.

"Chip technology represents both the cornerstone of our industry and its greatest challenge, particularly in semiconductor and microparticle development..."

Her words flowed with the precision of a seasoned expert. Though many had tuned in expecting a trainwreck, they soon found themselves captivated by her insightful analysis and commanding presence.

Nathaniel's intense focus never wavered from Vivian. With every gesture, every nuanced expression, she revealed facets he'd never noticed during their marriage. The woman on that podium might as well have been a stranger - brilliant, confident, and utterly mesmerizing.

Though mere feet separated them, an ocean might as well have stretched between where he sat and where she stood, radiant under the stage lights.

The thunderous ovation that followed her speech left no doubt - Vivian Lockhart had claimed her rightful place as director.

Meanwhile, at the venue's periphery, Julian Blackwood leaned casually against the exit wall. Half his striking face remained shadowed beneath his mask, but his lips curled in quiet satisfaction.

His gamble had paid off beyond expectations. This woman was a diamond in the rough - and Nathaniel's loss would prove to be his greatest advantage.