Chapter 461

Julian's eyes lit up like a gambler hearing the roulette wheel finally spin.

"Relax," he purred, adjusting his cufflinks. "I'm not some depraved monster. No unspeakable acts required. Just accompany me to a private location for... conversation."

Liam's fist collided with the wall beside Julian's head before anyone could blink. "If you're not a predator, then the word has no meaning!" The veins in his neck stood out like cables. "I've watched you circling her for months. Touch one hair on her head and I'll skin you alive."

Julian didn't flinch. His smirk deepened. "Empty threats bore me. Do it now or forever hold your peace." He leaned into the pressure of Liam's forearm against his throat. "Though we both know she'd never forgive you for damaging her precious business partner."

Security guards hovered uselessly at the periphery. Nobody interfered with Harborview City's most dangerous heir.

Vivian's voice sliced through the tension. "Liam. Control yourself." Her glare could have frozen lava. "We've discussed your temper. This behavior is unacceptable."

For the first time in years, Liam didn't immediately obey. His knuckles whitened around Julian's collar. "Tell me you're not actually considering this."

"A deal is a deal." Vivian's tone brooked no argument. "Mr. Blackwood's terms are reasonable. I suggest you remember whose judgment you've trusted all these years."

Liam released Julian with a shove that sent him stumbling. "Reasonable?" A bitter laugh escaped him. "You'd really spend the night with this viper?"

The office collectively held its breath.

Vivian's chin lifted. "Business requires certain... accommodations. Surely after eight years, you understand that."

Tears glittered in Liam's eyes, making them eerily beautiful. "And your fiancé? Does he understand?"

Gasps rippled through the staff. The Lockhart-Osborne engagement was supposed to be secret.

Julian's amusement visibly grew. He crossed his arms, enjoying the spectacle.

"This isn't a middle school crush!" Vivian snapped. "Grow up. You know exactly why I'm doing this."

Liam's expression hardened into something unrecognizable. "Oh, I understand perfectly." He stepped back, voice dropping to a lethal calm. "But here's your choice—walk out with him tonight, and consider our engagement terminated."

The ultimatum hung in the air like a guillotine blade.