Chapter 305

"200,000 dors says it's over!"

The fate of Ethan and Vivian's relationship became the hottest betting pool in Blackwood Group. From executives to janitors, everyone placed their wagers. Payday couldn't come soon enough!

CEO's Office.

"What happened?"

Ethan's composed facade shattered the moment the door closed. He turned to Margaret, urgency lacing his voice. "Who's Vivian running off with?"

Margaret studied her son's reaction. The ice-cold CEO was finally in love—for real this time. She wasn't sure whether to celebrate or despair.

"No clue who he is. Tall, handsome, rugged. Nothing like you. If Vivian's type has changed, you're in trouble..."

She delivered the brutal truth.

Ethan's jaw tightened, but he forced a careless shrug. "So what? We're divorced. She can date whoever she wants. Not my business."

"Stop lying to me, you stubborn brat!"

Margaret resisted the urge to kick him. Her son had inherited her pride instead of her emotional intelligence.

"If you truly don't care, then let her go. Just don't come crying to me later."

She crossed her arms. "That handsome stranger mentioned meeting his parents. He seemed serious. If you've got any guts left, go stop her now."

Ethan's chest constricted. "Was it Liam Osborne?"

"No!"

Margaret scoffed. "If it were Liam, I wouldn't be here. Those two were just playing games. This one's different—he carries himself like royalty. Probably your equal in status."

That unsettling thought had sent her rushing to Ethan's office.

His expression darkened.

Impressive, Isabella Lockhart. Three months post-divorce, and suitors are lining up at your door. Must be getting crowded.

Margaret pressed on. "But don't back down. You shared four years together. No one else has that history."

She leaned in. "I tested the waters today. She's not over you. Briar's the real problem. Vivian won't tolerate her. She made that crystal clear—it's either her or Briar. You need to choose."

Ethan's eyes turned glacial. "She actually said that?"

"Word for word. She despises Briar."

Margaret sighed. "Can't blame her. If I loved someone, I wouldn't share either. So? Which one will you discard?"

"I won't abandon Briar."

His resolve was unshakable.

Margaret frowned. "Explain this nonsense. You don't even like Briar. Why protect her at Vivian's expense?"

"Life isn't just about love. There's duty. Honor." His fists clenched. "If she can't accept Briar, then we were never meant to be."

Margaret threw up her hands. "Then what's your move? Will you really let Vivian meet his parents? Are you seriously okay with that?"