Chapter 380

Vivian remained unfazed by her recent viral news scandal. After freshening up, she slipped into a sleek black dress with minimal makeup, preparing to visit her parents' graves.

Today marked the ninth anniversary of their tragic passing.

"Would you like company?" Sophia offered gently.

"No. This is something I need to do alone."

Having been away from Newport City for four years, this was Vivian's first visit back—her first chance to properly honor them. There were too many private words waiting to be spoken.

She climbed into the same crimson Ferrari from yesterday and sped toward the cemetery.

August's summer heat blazed outside, yet the marble headstones stood silent and cool amidst the overgrown grass, untouched by seasons.

Parking the car, Vivian adjusted her black sunglasses before walking toward the graves with white daisies in hand.

But someone had beaten her there.

An extravagant bouquet already lay before the headstone—identical to ones she'd seen years prior. The realization struck her: someone had been visiting her parents all this time.

"Who?" The question burned in her mind.

Years ago, an exquisite amber pendant had been left here. Nathaniel Blackwood owned its twin, making Vivian suspect him initially. But that theory crumbled under scrutiny.

Nathaniel was ice incarnate. A man who'd shown her nothing but indifference. Why would he care about strangers' graves? Especially after their bitter divorce severed all ties.

"Enough." She shook her head, dispelling the foolish thought.

Her parents had been kind souls. Perhaps an old friend still mourned them, sending annual flowers as tribute.

Placing her daisies beside the mystery bouquet, Vivian's throat tightened at their smiling photos etched in stone.

Mom, Dad. I'm finally home.

"Four years became eight. My world shattered and rebuilt itself." Her fingers traced the engraved names. "I walked away from a marriage that destroyed me. From a man who never valued me. No regrets—I've never been stronger."

A shaky breath. "Your daughter hasn't disgraced the Lockhart name. Our family will reclaim its glory. And..." Her voice softened. "You have grandchildren now. Adrian and Abigail—my little miracles. Next time, I'll bring them to meet you."

Tears blurred her vision. "Watch over us. Keep them safe."

For a heartbeat, the photographed smiles seemed to deepen. Would they be proud of the woman she'd become?

Wiping her cheeks, Vivian composed herself. The vulnerable daughter vanished; the unshakable CEO reemerged.

She turned to leave—

A shadow moved between the headstones.