Chapter 458

"Julian?"

Vivian Lockhart froze at the sight of the strikingly handsome man striding into the tech department. Her guard instantly went up, brows knitting together in suspicion.

Julian Blackwood wasn't someone to underestimate. Back when Vivian was still Mrs. Blackwood, he'd been the first to challenge her position, scheming against her at every turn.

As the grandson of Alfred Blackwood's brother, he was technically Nathaniel's younger cousin. He'd been managing Blackwood Group's overseas operations, which made his sudden return to Newport City all the more puzzling.

"Mr. Blackwood!"

Olivia and the other employees immediately bowed their heads, their breaths hitching as if they'd just encountered death itself.

Clearly, Julian commanded significant respect within Blackwood Group despite always playing second fiddle.

"Vivian, it's been years. You're even more breathtaking now."

Dressed in a tailored dark suit that screamed power, Julian let his gaze roam over Vivian shamelessly, a smirk playing on his lips. "Marriage suits you. You've got this... irresistible allure now."

Liam's temper flared. He stepped protectively in front of Vivian, his expression icy. "Watch your mouth, Mr. Blackwood. She's not your sister-in-law anymore. One more word out of line, and I'll have you in court."

Julian arched a brow, amused. "My apologies. I forgot it's been four years since Ms. Lockhart's divorce. But to me, she'll always be family. Even if she's no longer tied to Nathaniel, I still consider her my sister-in-law. We have... much to catch up on."

His eyes locked onto Vivian again, undeterred.

"Stop staring at her!"

Liam's fists clenched, his patience snapping. "If you can't control where your eyes wander, I'll gladly teach them some manners."

Julian had always been vile.

Riding on his status as second only to Nathaniel in the Blackwood family, he'd acted like untouchable royalty across Newport City.

He'd openly opposed Vivian's marriage to Nathaniel, claiming she wasn't worthy. He'd even hired thugs to crash their wedding, humiliating her publicly.

Alfred had been furious, stripping him of power and exiling him overseas with only minor business dealings to manage. That had kept him in check—until now.

Liam had never forgotten that incident. He'd longed to punch Julian's smug face, and now fate had handed him the perfect opportunity.

"It's fine."

Vivian placed a calming hand on Liam's arm. "Beauty attracts attention. If Mr. Blackwood enjoys looking, I'll take it as a compliment. Stare all you want."

Liam scowled. "Boss, how can you let this creep get away with it? Remember what he did to you?"

"People change. I believe he can be... useful to us now."

Vivian's gaze locked onto Julian, her smile laced with hidden meaning.

"See? She gets it!"

Julian looked pleasantly surprised.

It was true. Vivian had transformed from that rigid, conservative woman into someone entirely different.

"Ms. Lockhart, I heard you wanted access to the presidential suite's surveillance footage. Nathaniel denied your request, but... I happen to have his authorization. Maybe I can help."

His tone dripped with smugness.

Vivian remained unfazed. "By all means, Mr. Blackwood. Do enlighten us."

Even without his help, she had other ways to hack into that system.