Chapter 463

Vivian gave a cool nod. "Why are we standing around? Let's move!"

Arm in arm, they walked out past all the Blackwood Group employees.

The staff exchanged disappointed glances.

"Can you believe how different Mrs. Blackwood is now? Four years changed her completely. That sweet, innocent woman is gone. No shame at all - flirting with every man she meets!"

"This proves Nathaniel and Vivian's love story is dead. I can't stand her reckless behavior. She doesn't deserve Mr. Blackwood's loyalty. He's remained faithful all these years while she throws herself at womanizers like Julian. Poor man..."

"Don't just pity Mr. Blackwood. Think about Liam too! That poor boy's caught in the middle!"

The employees' admiration for Vivian had evaporated. One muttered, "Did you hear? Mr. Blackwood's absence isn't just business. He's seriously injured - because of her."

"Worse - my source says the rescue mission failed. Mr. Blackwood might be..."

"What? You think Julian would actually replace him? That's terrifying! Mr. Blackwood may be tough, but he's got class. Julian's nothing but a cockroach. If he takes over Blackwood Group, I'm resigning!"

Their heated discussion froze when a sharp voice cut through.

"Don't you people have work?"

The speaker had been absent as long as Nathaniel - Ethan Young, CEO's secretary.

"M-Mr. Young!"

Instant silence fell.

As Nathaniel's right-hand man, Ethan commanded nearly equal respect. His presence often felt like the CEO himself had arrived.

"What's this gossip session about?" Ethan's brow furrowed.

Returning after weeks away, the company's state alarmed him.

"Sir, we were discussing..." The boldest employee recounted everything, including Julian's inappropriate behavior with Vivian.

"Mr. Young, if Mr. Blackwood's alright, please bring him back. Julian's making unauthorized moves, clearly angling for control. And today... today he dared lay hands on Mrs. Blackwood!"

This particular employee had been a staunch supporter of Nathaniel and Vivian's romance. His frustration poured out.

"That bastard touched his cousin's wife? He's got a death wish." Ethan's fists clenched.

"Sir... about Mr. Blackwood..." Another dared ask, "Why his long absence? The rumors are damaging our reputation!"

"Some questions shouldn't be asked. Since when do employees demand their CEO's personal details?" Ethan's glare silenced further inquiries. Then thoughtfully, "Where did Mrs. Blackwood and Julian go?"