Chapter 39

Vivian never imagined Cassandra, who always played the victim, would dare to stand up for herself.

"You disgusting witch!" Charlotte shrieked, her face twisted in fury. "Look at yourself—pathetic, shameless, clinging to a man who despises you! Your family's bankrupt, and you're nothing but a gold-digging leech!"

"Do you really think delaying the divorce changes anything?" Charlotte spat. "Nathaniel's child is growing inside Cassandra. Their marriage is inevitable. You have no right to refuse!"

"I won't debate my rights with you," Vivian replied calmly. "But one thing is certain—you have no say in my marriage."

"And what if she's pregnant? Until the divorce is finalized, I'm still his wife. That makes her the mistress, and her child illegitimate."

The words struck a nerve. Cassandra's lips trembled, but she forced herself to maintain her fragile facade.

"Miss Lockhart," she whispered, tears welling, "insult me all you want, but don't you dare speak about my baby like that!"

"I'm stating facts," Vivian shot back. "If a mistress's child isn't illegitimate, what is it? Royalty?"

Cassandra gasped, clutching her stomach dramatically. "Nathaniel and I love each other! That makes you the unwanted one!"

"Enough talking," Charlotte snarled. "People like her only understand one thing—force!" She raised her hand to strike.

But before the blow landed, a strong hand caught her wrist.

"Who dares—?"

Her voice died when she saw who stood behind her. "M-Mr. Osborne."

Liam looked every inch the aristocratic prince in his tailored white suit, his presence commanding and dangerous.

"Miss Whitmore," he said with a chilling smile, "did you forget your medication today? Or do you always throw tantrums in public?"

Charlotte paled. The Osbornes might rank lowest among the Elite Eight, but their underworld ties were no secret.

"You wouldn't... actually cut out someone's tongue... would you?" she stammered.

Liam's grip tightened. "Try me."

Cassandra intervened hastily. "Mr. Osborne, this is a misunderstanding! We only approached Miss Lockhart because she seemed... out of place here."

"This is my hotel," Liam said coldly. "She can walk in naked if she pleases. You, however, are one word away from being thrown out."

Vivian touched his arm. "Let's go inside."

The moment they disappeared, Charlotte exploded. "Since when is that gold-digger cozy with Liam Osborne?! She's nothing but a man-stealing parasite!"

Her boyfriend, Walter, tried to soothe her. "Forget them, baby. I've got a surprise that'll make you the star tonight."

Charlotte scoffed. "You? You're nothing compared to Liam!"

Walter only smirked. "Just wait."