Chapter 46

Ethan and Vivian stepped onto the stage together. The spotlight made them look like the perfect couple.

The host began discussing their relationship while the audience cheered. Vivian's sharp eyes scanned the crowd, searching for anything unusual.

But everyone seemed normal. No suspicious figures stood out.

Was I imagining things? Or was that just a joke?

Then the host announced, "Let's congratulate Mr. Blackwood for winning the auction at fifteen million dollars! Our presenter will now hand him the ring."

A stunning woman in a white gown gracefully presented Ethan with the velvet box containing the diamond ring.

"Now, let's have Mr. Blackwood place this ring on his wife's finger once more! Everyone here wants to witness their enduring love!"

The host’s tone made it sound like a wedding ceremony.

The crowd erupted in excitement, as if they were attending an actual wedding. The energy matched their real one four years ago.

Ethan’s expression remained cold. He had just wasted fifteen million on something that was already his.

But for the sake of appearances, he played along. "Thank you all for being here to witness my love for my wife. This ring belongs on her finger."

He took the ring and reached for Vivian’s hand.

She stifled a laugh, her body stiffening with discomfort.

Is this really necessary?

She didn’t extend her hand. Instead, she forced a smile and muttered through clenched teeth, "I don’t think this is needed."

"Oh, but it is. How else will I keep you by my side?"

Ethan was effortlessly charming—and shameless.

The audience cheered louder.

Vivian had no choice. She reluctantly held out her hand. "Fine, Mr. Blackwood. Do the honors."

Let’s see who’s embarrassed now.

She could always take it off later.

Ethan took her hand and slid the ring onto her finger with practiced grace. It looked like a scene from a romantic movie.

But at that moment, Vivian noticed something strange about the presenter holding the box.

"Watch out!"

She yanked Ethan behind her just as the woman pulled a small revolver from her gown. Vivian kicked the gun away—but not fast enough.

Bang!

A bullet tore through her arm. Blood spilled from the wound.

"Ahhh! Murder!"

Chaos erupted as people screamed and ran.

"You ruined everything!"

The "presenter" snarled in a man’s voice. His murderous glare locked onto Vivian as he pulled out another gun.

"Ethan Blackwood, today is the end of your family!"

At the same time, three other hosts lunged at them.

"Go! They’re after you!" Vivian shielded Ethan, her voice icy.

"You’re hurt!" He didn’t move, his gaze fixed on the blood pouring from her arm.

The sight reminded him of Sebastian’s fatal wound three months ago.

Nausea hit him. His vision blurred, and he collapsed.

More gunshots rang out. Through the haze, he saw Vivian get hit again.

"Vivian!"

He tried to stand, but darkness swallowed him.