Chapter 75

A flicker of surprise crossed Ethan Blackwood's icy expression before it settled into a frown.

What had Vivian done to make Julian Montgomery pour drinks for her?

Three years ago, when Blackwood Group acquired Blackwood Legal, Julian's arrogance and blatant disrespect had left a lasting impression on Ethan.

But Julian's legal prowess was unmatched—he effortlessly resolved Blackwood Group's most complex cases—so Ethan had tolerated his attitude.

For years, Ethan had left the law firm to its own devices. Profit didn't matter as long as they delivered when needed.

Yet the lawyers had turned it into a glorified retirement home, bleeding money every year.

Vivian had traded $40 million and a luxury penthouse for this sinking ship. To Ethan, it was a fool's bargain.

With her limited experience, he was certain she'd fail to handle the firm's difficult personalities. When she did, she'd crawl back to renegotiate their divorce settlement.

But now, it seemed she'd already succeeded—in just three days?

Vivian and the lawyers hadn't noticed Ethan's arrival. He didn't approach them, heading straight for the VIP lounge upstairs instead.

Nathan Prescott was waiting, smirking. "Took you long enough. Too busy to hang out with us, but the second your wife's involved, you come running?"

"This isn't about her."

Ethan's reply was cold as he took his seat—a strategic position overlooking Vivian's table.

From the moment he sat down, his gaze locked onto her, unblinking.

Downstairs, Vivian was the center of attention, radiant as a blooming rose.

Her white dress contrasted sharply with her crimson lips—an intoxicating blend of innocence and seduction.

Was this how she'd tamed those stubborn lawyers?

The thought made Ethan's jaw tighten. He took a sharp sip of wine, an unfamiliar irritation prickling under his skin.

"Nathaniel, are you even listening?"

Nathan waved a hand in front of Ethan's face. "You've been staring at her since you got here. We should call you Stare-athaniel at this point. Pay attention!"

Only then did Ethan realize his focus had strayed. He forced his attention back. "What were you saying?"

Nathan exhaled dramatically. "Look, I need Julian Montgomery to take my case. I'm screwed if I lose this."

"I can assign you another lawyer. But Julian..."

Ethan's expression darkened. "He doesn't take orders from me."

"No way! You own the damn firm!"

Nathan ran a hand through his hair. "My new club's in trouble. A patron died from alcohol poisoning. Her family's suing, and the judge hinted we'll lose. The only similar case ever won was handled by Julian years ago."

Dominic Harrington chimed in. "Just ask him, Ethan. Having someone we know on the case reduces risks."

Ethan said nothing, his attention drifting back downstairs where Vivian's group had escalated to a drinking game.

His grip tightened around his glass. He couldn't sit still any longer.

Standing abruptly, he downed his wine. "Let's go."