Chapter 277

What was Vivian playing at? Why did she suddenly grab his arm like that?

Her fingers were delicate, her touch feather-light. It sent an unexpected warmth through him.

Nathan's thoughts spiraled. His pulse kicked up.

He jerked his arm away, scowling. "What's your game? Boundaries exist, Vivian. I might be irresistible, but keep your hands to yourself."

Vivian laughed, unfazed. "Fine, fine. I'll behave. Mr. Prescott, do tone down the charm, won't you?"

She'd only ever known his sharp tongue. This playful side was new—and oddly refreshing.

Maybe having him as an ally wouldn't be so bad.

They settled by the window at Starfee. Nathan ordered an iced black coffee; Vivian chose a steaming cappuccino.

The first sip was perfection. She exhaled, tension melting.

"Out with it. What do you need?"

No point dancing around it.

Nathan choked on his drink. "How did you—?"

"Please. You'd never buy me coffee unless you wanted something. Normally, you'd just insult me and leave."

His gaze sharpened, reassessing her. "I underestimated you. Thought you were just another pretty face coasting on the Blackwood name. No wonder Ethan's so taken with you."

She scoffed. Taken? Ethan only ever glared at her.

"Flattery won't work. Spit it out. Whether I help depends on my mood."

Nathan dragged a hand through his hair. "I'm tangled in a lawsuit. Only one lawyer in Newport City can win it—Julian Montgomery from Blackwood Legal."

"Ah." She snapped her fingers. "So you messed up and need Julian to clean it. Correct?"

"No!" He slammed his cup down. "A woman died at my club. The family's suing me for negligence. Someone set me up—they refused settlements, got police protection. I can't even bribe my way out."

He looked wrecked. Desperate.

Vivian tapped her chin. "Cause of death?"

"Overdose. She injected too much, her system crashed." His jaw clenched. "Her bad choices aren't my fault!"

"Legally? They are. If your club supplied the drugs or encouraged use, you're criminally liable."

"Enough!" He leaned in, voice raw. "That's why I'm begging. Julian's won cases like this before. Get him to take mine."

Pride clearly cost him to ask.

Vivian smiled. "I'll help. On one condition."