Chapter 278

Nathan's eyes sparkled with renewed hope.

"Name your terms," he said eagerly. "Whatever you want—just help me win this case."

Vivian didn't mince words. "I want a thirty-year lease on your family's southern plot in Newport City."

The Prescotts were one of the Elite Eight, their fortune built on real estate. Though they specialized in just one industry, their wealth was formidable.

Years ago, strategic connections had secured them vast lands, leading to luxury developments and commercial hubs.

But the southern plot?

Fifteen hundred square feet of untouched wilderness, too remote for profitable development. Overgrown and abandoned, it had been a financial burden for years.

The Prescott family held onto it only because selling during the market slump would mean massive losses.

Vivian's request was... unexpected.

"Why that plot?" Nathan frowned, sipping his coffee. "It's a money pit. No investor would touch it."

She smirked. At least he’s honest enough to admit his family’s liabilities.

"That's my business. Do we have a deal or not?"

Nathan exhaled. "If you really want it, take it. But I’m warning you—it’s a bad investment. My family has better properties if—"

"No." Her voice was firm. "Just that one. Agree, and Julian Montgomery will sign on as your defense attorney today."

"Fine." He shrugged. "I’ll lease it to you at cost. But don’t come crying when you can’t turn a profit."

"Deal." She lifted her cup in a toast.

Surprisingly easy. She’d expected Nathan to be the toughest negotiation, but he’d folded faster than the others.

Never judge a book by its cover.

Nathan studied her, curiosity flickering in his gaze. "You know… you look better since the divorce. That meek rich-wife act you used to pull? Annoying as hell."

Vivian arched a brow. "Funny. My life improved the second I left Nathaniel. People actually treat me like a person now."

Back then, she’d bent over backward to please everyone—only to be met with disdain.

Now?

The maids who sneered at her bowed their heads. Her former mother-in-law, Eleanor, no longer dared to insult her. Even Nathan, who once rolled his eyes at her existence, was chatting with her like an equal.

"Turns out, Nathaniel was the bad luck charm all along," she mused bitterly. "Cut him loose, and suddenly, life works."

Nathan snorted. "He’d lose his mind if he heard that."

Then, quieter: "He’s into you now, but you’re over him. Timing’s a bitch."

Vivian scoffed. "He’s not into me. It’s just possessiveness."

"Maybe." Nathan sighed. "The man’s clueless about love. But one thing’s clear—he’s obsessed. Asked me for dating tips last week. Took notes."

Her lips twisted. "Let me guess—he thinks he can ‘win me back’?"

Nathan smirked. "Oh, he’s definitely trying."