Chapter 81

The following morning.

Vivian Lockhart arrived at Skyview Retreat dressed in a tailored taupe pantsuit. Her chestnut hair was pulled back in a sleek ponytail.

She could easily pass for a recent university graduate with her youthful appearance.

Skyview Retreat nestled deep within an ancient forest fifty kilometers outside Newport City.

The exclusive resort boasted lush greenery, oxygen-rich air, natural hot springs, championship golf courses, and private fishing lakes. It was the preferred getaway for the elite.

Traffic delayed Vivian slightly. Her car pulled up at 10:01 AM—one minute late.

As she stepped out, she noticed a crowd gathered near the entrance, buzzing around a departing figure.

That man was Leonard Kingsley, CEO of Kingsley Holdings—the very person Vivian needed to meet.

Kingsley Holdings stood as a financial powerhouse with formidable influence. Among Newport City's top investment firms, they'd been Blackwood Group's most loyal partner for years.

The recent data breach at Blackwood Group had cost Kingsley Holdings millions. They'd immediately severed ties and were now vetting new partners.

Vivian strode toward the group of imposing executives. Her smile was polished as she positioned herself directly in Leonard's path. "Mr. Kingsley, I'm Vivian Lockhart. It's a pleasure to finally meet you. Might we speak privately?"

Though petite in stature, her presence commanded attention. Most would find her confident tone impossible to refuse.

But Leonard Kingsley wasn't most people.

Since cutting ties with Blackwood Group, he'd become the most sought-after deal in the city. Countless opportunists like Vivian had approached him daily—all were dismissed without consideration.

"Vivian Lockhart." His assessing gaze traveled over her. "The fallen Lockhart heiress. The esteemed Blackwood daughter-in-law." A smirk twisted his lips. "Has Nathaniel become so desperate he's sending his wife to change my mind? How ruthless."

Vivian remained composed. "Nathaniel Blackwood and I operate separately. I'm here representing Lockhart Enterprises—this has nothing to do with Blackwood Group."

"So you're the mystery woman young Liam's been pestering me about?" Leonard's eyebrow arched, interest flickering.

He vaguely recalled seeing her at a gala years ago—just another decorative accessory on Nathaniel's arm. Pretty but forgettable.

This version of Vivian Lockhart was entirely different.

A golf cart approached from the nearby course.

"You intrigue me," Leonard admitted, "but I detest tardiness. You may leave."

Vivian had anticipated this.

She knew Leonard's reputation. If he were easily swayed, Liam would've secured the deal weeks ago.

"My apologies for the delay, Mr. Kingsley. As compensation, please accept this."

From her bag, she produced a plain brown paper parcel.

The surrounding executives exchanged disdainful glances.

As if Leonard Kingsley would be impressed by some trinket. The man received priceless gifts daily.

His assistant immediately blocked Vivian. "Mr. Kingsley doesn't accept unsolicited gifts. Mind your—"

Leonard's expression shifted abruptly when he glimpsed the parcel's markings. "Is that—?"