SWNOVELS Chapter 341-350
Chapter 341
deafening silence. The quiet was so intense that one could have heard a pin drop
Brooks Mansion, Scoff foot had barely crossed the threshold when he froze
lected himself and strode towards Vivienne. His voice was low and angry as he asked. “Vivienne! What kind of nonsense are you spouting? How
ssibly be my daughter”
| the Brooks family. Scott had never raised his voice to her But this time he was genuinely angry How could she joke about something like this? een involved. How could they have a child together?
tunned into silence it was Calista who recovered first. Her voice was a ragged shout as she yelled. “You’re lying Vivienne, I know you hate me, but
like this
Scott = daughter? What kind of joke was that? She would love to be Scott’s daughter Having the Brooks family name would make it much easier for her to marry wouldet in? But she wasn’t She was William’s daughter
Mila remained silent. There was a flicker of panic in her eyes. She didn’t know what to say
Judith was quick to regain her composure hastily saying, “Yes. Vivienne, how can you joke about something like this? Your father and Mila have never had anything going on All these years his heart has only held your mother?”
The rest of the Brooks family stared at them. Everyone was shocked and confused, no one said a word. They simply didn’t know what to say
Kala gaped at
lista then at Scott before bursting out in laughter This is the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard
William was also shocked He looked at Vienne in disbelief. He knew Vivienne well, and he knew she wouldn’t joke about something like this. He whipped his head around to glare at Mila as a great fury welled up within hem “Milal You lied to me!
Mila was startled by his shout but she quickly regained her composure Who lied to you? Don’t listen to Vivienne’s nonsensel Calista is your daughter!”
“You had the guts to be to me? William glared at her if you hadn’t done this my teacher wouldn’t have said so! Tell me, what exactly is going on?”
Ridiculous! He had been raising someone else’s daughter for over twenty years?i
Mila struggling to her feet shouted, “I’ve said it! Vivienne is talking nonsense! Why would you believe this young brat over me?!”
“She’s my teacher And you’re my ex–wife William shouted back ́ ́1 should trust you? What have you done to deserve my trust? Don’t forget, it was you who schemed to get involved with me and after just one time, you got pregnant!
Williams anger grew get it now! No wonder you were so eager to marry me back then, you were planning on making me wear the cuckold hat all along weren’t you, Mila?! You and Scott have no shame You camed on behind my back and made me raise your daughter”
Scott frowned His voice was low and stern as he cautioned him. Dr Pendleton watch your tonel
William ignored him and began speaking with clear sarcasm Scott, you’re a member of the prestigious Brooks family, the second most influential in Rivenwood. You should be ashamed of yourself for doing such a thing!”
He turned to Mila And you! Your family, the Clarks is also a respectable family How could you do such a thing?
Mila was furious Tve said it Calista isnt Scotts daughter! It’s all Vivienne talking nonsense! You’re making a fool of yourself!
“You re the fool William retorted You say my teacher is talking nonsense? Fine, let’s take a paternity test! We’ll see if Calista is my daughter or not
With that he grabbed Calistas arm and strode towards the door
Seeing this Mila rushed forward to stop him “No! We re not taking a test?”
She yanked Calista away from William and yelled as her voice choked with tears William, you’re heartless! Your daughter is so filial to you, yet you’re willing to drag her into this because of some outsider’s words You’re so disappointing!”
She turned to glare at Vivienne Vivienne! What grudge do you have against me and Calista that you would go so far to harm her?” She screamed in a shrill voice
“I know you’ve always been uncomfortable with the relationship between me and your father, but you’re being too selfish! Your father has been waiting for your mother for so many years, doesn’t he deserve to have a new family? It’s clear that you’re targeting us just to prevent your father from starting a new family. You’re simply too malicious!
Scott’s expression darkened “Ms Clark, watch what you say Apart from our families being old friends, there’s nothing else between us
Mila felt a sharp pain in her chest “Scott, why are you playing dumb” Everyone knows how I feel about you and that it’s only a matter of time before we get married Why cant you admit it?
With that she glared at Vivienne “It’s all because of you! You see, your father won’t even acknowledge our relationship!”
Vivienne, lounging in her chair, gave her a lazy glance. Then she rose and went upstairs
Soon, she came back down, holding a manila envelope
She tossed the envelope in front of William and said coldly “Look for yourself
William opened the envelope and pulled out the documents inside
On it in bold letters, was the phrase Paternity Test”
And the final line. “No Biological Relation, was a dagger to William’s eyes
There were two documents in total in the envelope He opened the other one. It was a paternity test between Scott and Calista
The final line read, Biological Relation Confirmed. Probability 99 99%
Wilkern was instantly lind He threw the paternity test results in front of Mila. “Bill making excuses” Scott and Calista are biologically related Take a good look!”
Chapter 342
The Brooks family was left utterly speechless
They thought Vivienne was just rambling nonsensically
But now the paternity test confirmed it.
How could this be?
Everyone’s gaze was drawn to Scott
Scott’s face darkened like a stormy sky. He stepped forward to pick up the paternity test results, but Mila beat him to it, ready to rip it to shreds
But suddenly, she was immobilized
As she was wondering why Vivienne spoke “You can easily forge a paternity test, but it costs money to do a real one I spent money on this one, so if you want to rip it, you better pay me back”
Mila was about to retort, but Scott swiftly stepped in and snatched the test from her hands
The moment he confirmed that Calista was indeed his child his demeanor changed drastically He threw the paper at Mila, furious “What the hell is going on?
He knew perfectly well that he had never been involved with Mila
Not had he been manipulated into a relationship with her without his knowledge
Yet Calista was his child?
It was incredibly shocking
He didn’t doubt the authenticity of the paternity test because it bore the official seal of the state
And the results were just a week old
Judith couldn’t believe what she was hearing. She went over and took a look at the paternity test, almost losing her balance in the process
Carl steadied her
Once Judith had regained her composure, she turned to Mila “Aren’t you going to tell the truth? Speak! Why is Calista Scott’s daughter? What have you been hiding Mila knew she could no longer hide the truth and let out a loud scream “Ahhh!!!”
After venting her frustration, Mila lifted her head and gave Scott a sinister smile “Yes! Calista is your daughter! Surprised? Wondering how we have a child when
never involved?
Scot just stared at her coldly waiting for her to continue
William felt a heavy weight on his chest. He was finding it difficult to stand
Seeing this Kala quickly brought a chair for him to sit on
“Scoff! I loved you so much! I put my pride aside and did everything to please you. But all you saw was Karen! You never even smiled at me because wanted her dead! But I found something even more painful than death for her Carrying your child!”
Mila suddenly found herself able to move She walked towards Scott as her eyes filled with deep emotion. “I tried many ways, but you were so infatuated couldn’t get close to you I wanted to drug you, but your dear sister stopped me
Scott frowned “Paula?”
“Correct! Mila smirked proudly Paula told me that the Brooks men, to ensure the lineage of the family save their prime sperm at a young age. She stole gave it to me for artificial insemination
“Luckily succeeded on the first try” Mila said “Initially, I wanted to use the child to force you to marry me, but then I saw you with Karen) hatest vinu both suffer! So, took the child and quickly married William I thought you would marry Karen soon, and I had planned to kill Karen at your wedding But t three years to get married
Mila sneered at Vivienne
warted so long for an opportunity to kill her with a paternity test, but she fled before the wedding
The more Judith heard the angrier she became She pointed at Mila as her voice shook with rage “You You wanted to manpulate Scott
“Its his own fau am excellent in every aspect How am I inferior to Karen? Why would he choose Karen over me? Why is Karen abil in t cant accept it if i cant have him no one else can!”
Scott stared coldly at Mila Suddenly, he felt a cold gaze on hum He turned and met Vivienne’s icy eyes. His heart skipped a bal Ve
He wanted to explain, but he lacked the courage
Although it wasnt his fault, he had been careless and allowed Paula to steal his sperm
Vivienne gave him a darterested glance and ignored tim
William clutched his chest as he struggled to breathe If you wanted to marry Scott so badly, why i
then, when Calista was only three you could have easily married him instead furiously
Despite his lack of affection for Mila, te doted Calista and taught her everything he knew
The Pendleton family may not has been the most prestigious of i
Calista, with her masters in medical research and the prestige
But the child he devoted all his efforts to was someone else
How could he not be angry?
“That’s because i was too late. if 1 ha confessed everything, then tured, and my daughter would have been branded as an degtimala
Mile cast a inving dance at Calista “1 might haste meaned up my f
dbeurt love me Even if I forced him into marrying me, he wouldn’t treat my girl right.
But you William, you’re different. You’ll pass on your medical expertise to Calista. She’s the jewel of the Pendleton family. She’ll get the kind of affection in the Pendleton family that the Brooks can’t offer”
Mila had always understood that Scott’s heart belonged exclusively to Karen.
Other than Karen’s children, he didn’t acknowledge anyone else
Scott was a man who, when in love, was deeply passionate but could also be heartless. But his heartlessness was only towards women who were not Karen.
Even after all these years, she had never managed to win a place in Scott’s heart
William let out a self–deprecating laugh Tve been a fool for all these years‘
He rose wearily to his feet and bowed slightly to Vivienne. I’m tired. I think I’ll head home and rest. I’ll visit you another day”
Vivienne gave him a glance. “Hmm”
After a pause, she added, “It wasn’t your fault Your first love has been waiting for you all these years. She bore you a son”
William was taken aback. “What? She didn’t get married?”
“Yes She discovered she was pregnant after leaving you. She braved all odds to have the child and raised him. Vivienne stated slowly
“Where is she? Where is my son? William exclaimed as his voice filled with excitement
In that moment, the pain of the past twenty years faded it was replaced by the joy of learning that his first love had been waiting for him and had bore him a child
“She’s Mr. James adopted daughter Your son’s name is Atticus, Mr. James grandson
Chapter 343
Hearing the news, William’s heart was filled with excitement
Professor James was the most prestigious scholar at Elite University, known for his philanthropy and generous support for underprivileged students
Living under his influence the people he loved and his son would definitely be of good character as well
He quickly turned to Vivienne. “Malam, can you take me to meet them?”
He was hesitant to show up uninvited, fearing it could startle them
He knew that Professor James had been Vivienne’s teacher at Elite University, which would surely smooth the way for their reconciliation
“Go back and rest I’ll find you after I’ve sorted things out here Vivienne replied
Casting a glance at Mila and Calista, William’s face fell “Alright
Did they think that getting on Vivienne’s bad side would only result in a minor injury?
They really underestimated Vivienne
Once William left the Brooks household returned to its usual calm
The younger generation exchanged glances, hesitant to speak
Judith was so angry that she clutched at her chest struggling to catch her breath
Scott wore a cold expression, exuding an aura that was chilling and devouring
The tension hung heavy in the air
Seeing that the Brooks family remained silent. Mila finally spoke, “I had intended to keep this secret forever, but now that Vivienne has exposed it it’s time to
Mila looked straight at Scott, “You don’t have to marry me. Scott, but you must acknowledge Calistal My mistakes have nothing to do with her. She shouldn’t pay for I’ve done!
After today, all of Riverwood will know that Calista is your daughter which will bring dire effect to her reputation. If you disown her, it will ruin her life. You may Scott, but please, for the sake of our child handle this matter responsibly‘
Calista lay on the floor, utterly dumbfounded
How could things have spiraled so out of control?
But for her this was a good thing
What mattered to her was not prestige or honor
What mattered was having a social status that matched that of Percival’s
Only the heiress of the Brooks family could match the pedigree of the Ellington family!
“What a joke! Kala retomed angrily “Why should the Brooks family pay for your mistakes? Everyone in Rivenwood knows that Scott has always held i acknowledges this girl as his daughter, that would put stigma on him.”
She never liked Mila and her daughter
But now not only did she have to put up with them, they were actually trying to be acknowledged as part of the Brooks family?
This was just cramping her style
And she really liked Vivienne
She loathed Arabella when Scott mistakenly acknowledged her, and she hated Calista even more
Vivienne was the only one she wanted to protect She wouldn’t let Calista come back and cause trouble for Vivienne
Kala Watch your words Timothy who had been silent until now. suddenly intervened
They had no right to interfere with this matter
The decision was ultimately up to Scott
Kala wanted to argue but she held her tongue on seeing Scott’s stem expression
) will not acknowledge Calista” Scott looked coldly at Mila and her daughter and said in an indifferent k
Although Mila had expected this outcome she still felt a | of sadness.
Scott was as cold and heartiess as ever
Even if she gave birth to his daughter who was a girl of exceptional character he was still too heartless to
Calista looked up at Scott in disbelief. She never tho
Why word you Fowledge me Ti mother it a not my fault! Why should i im
hat he would refute to acknowledyr her
I am your daughter
Her voice grew louder and more emotio
Scott listened to
Und
At that moment. Tristar appeared i
Manalon
He was in a wheelchan and Kovalci pushed her in
Scott frowned when he saw tom, What ser pitu doang hana? ||
Tristan give a lifter smule. `im abroady like thin Maling will do
He could get off bed under Calotas Peatman but he could just wall, a low Mapa. Most of the
ལྷང་ཤི་ད༴ ཨིན་ཡོད་པ་ཀོར་ཆ་ ་ཡོན། བཞིན་ཡོད།་ ་གད་
But Trista
then at Calista After a moment of silence, he spoke up, “Dad, I admit that this is an eerie situation, but it’s not Calista’s fault. You can’t let l candal “
don’t need to worry about this”
Karen Scott had always been partial to Tristan.
offended Vivienne several times and suffered for it. So he had been disappointed in Tristan.
| Tristan was trying to meddle in this matter, Scott was not pleased.
Tnstan lowered his gaze I know I’m just an adopted son and I shouldn’t interfere. But I love Calista! I want to marry her!”
What Scott was shocked
Judith and the rest of the Brooks family were also stunned
Even Mila and her daughter were unable to process the situation for some time
Vivienne was the only one who remained unfazed She looked at them indifferently with a faintly raised eyebrow
Without further ado, Tristan struggled to get off his wheelchair, knelt on the floor, and pleaded earnestly, “Dad, for the sake of my mom, please grant me this wish. I can give up the status of being the Brooks family’s adopted son. I just want to marry Calista!”
The mom he mentioned was Karen!
Karen was his savior, but after being adopted by Scott, he also started to call her mom
Calista was taken aback for a while before she could react. She looked at Tristan with disdain.
Was that cripple adopted son really dreaming of marrying her?
That was just ludicrous!
But she knew that although Tristan was an adopted son, he held a significant place in Scott’s heart. If Scott agreed to Tristan’s request, she could easily weasel her way back into the Brooks family
Once she became the lady of the Brooks family, it would be a piece of cake to ruin her marriage with Tristan
With this in mind, she looked up at Scott, “I like Tristan, tool
“What the hell??? Kala exclaimed in shock
Calista liked Tristan?
Was this some kind of joke?
This woman, who was always aiming for the stars, was set on marrying Percival And how came that now she wanted to marry Tristan?
“You Scott was so angry that his chest hurt He looked at Tristan and Calista and was unable to utter a word.
The atmosphere was tense for a long time until Scott sighed, ‘Fine‘ Children’s debts are paid by their parents. Tomorrow, I will make an announcement recognizing Calista’s identity, but Mila, you can forget about ever marrying into the Brooks family!”
Mis for on didn’t have any objections.
Chapter 344
Although she was eager to marry Scott, her daughter’s well–being was her top priority
If the Brooks family acknowledged Calista, she didn’t care whether she married Scott or not. After all, her daughter would share her gains with her in the future.
in particular Vivienne would be out of the picture if Calista became Miss Brooks
Percival would only belong to her daughter
“Scott Kala disapproving of this outcome stomped her foot in frustration “How could you agree to let Calista come back? What about Vivienne? She was the second Miss Brooks, but if Calista returns, she’ll be demoted to the third Have you thought about how she would feel?”
Technically, Kala was Miss Brooks, and Vivienne was the second Miss Brooks
But since Kala was rarely home and seldom participated in the Brooks family’s business affairs, few people knew about her status
So when Vivienne returned everyone naturally started referring to her as Miss Brooks.
However, Vivienne, who was second in the family hierarchy, now suddenly became third It was infuriating!
Ashley was also upset. “Yeah why should an illegitimate daughter become the second Miss Brooks?”
She used to have a good impression of Calista, who was a medical prodigy with a cool and aloof demeanor. But she immediately disliked Calista as she heard Mila’s shocking news
Just like she couldn’t stand Paula, she couldn’t stand Calista either.
Paula had turned the Brooks family upside down, and now here was Calista, a daughter born out of wedlock through unfair means. The thought alone made Ashley
nauseous
She had always felt that love was the thing she yearned the most whereas the actions of Mila and her daughter had tainted it.
“Enough” Scott suddenly shouted, “This matter is settled and no one else is allowed to comment!”
Kala wanted to argue for Vivienne, but the stern look from Scott made her tremble in fear so she didn’t dare to say anything.
Vivienne on the other hand, was as steady as a rock she was sitting in her chair with a faint smile on her face
Kala couldn’t understand how Vivienne could remain so calm when this illegitimate daughter had noted
Scott noticed Viviennes composure too. He walked over to her and tried to soften his voice, “Vivienne, I apologize to you and your mother but Tristan, he owes his the to your mother. He wishes to marry Calista, and she shares his feelings I want to fulfill his wish”
Scott paused and said “But don’t worry, my fortunes will still all be yours. Calista won’t get a penny!”
Upon hearing this, Mila and Calistas faces darkened
Just as they expected. Scott would never truly care for them.
But that didn’t matter. That was a long game. They would wait and see whether Vivienne would inherit the Brooks family fortune and whether she would successfully many Percival
Vivienne stood up, looked at Scott, and spoke calmly. “Mr. Brooks, this is your family matter As long as you’re pleased, there’s no need to inform me
“Vivienne “Scott was displeased with Vivienne’s attitude
She had been back for quite some time, but she never changed her cold demeanor towards him
Even a heart of iron should have been melted by now, right?
But in her eyes, he was less than Donan and Cordelia He had seen her laughing and talking easily with them several times
Why was it different with him?
“Mr Brooks have you finished dealing with your family matters?” Vivienne ignored Scott’s hesitation
Scott was silent for a moment before sighing. “Yes, I have”
“Good now it’s my turn to deal with my brother’s issue Vivienne said as she strode towards Calista
Caliste was immediately panicked She was lying on the ground and feeling pain all over her body. She could only use her hands to push herself backwards and can frightened voice “What are you doing? i am your sister”
Vivienne stood over her and looked down at her “They might acknowledge you but i don’t?”
“You
you’re outrageous Calista looked up at Vivienne, who stood there like a statue Her presence made it hard for her to breathe
Seeing this. Mila quackly stepped in front of Calista and looked straight into Viviero’s eyes “Vivienne, dont ( apologize to you But now you’re all farruly I hope you can let bygones be bygones?
“Apologize” i don’t accept it?
Vivienne swiftly picked up Calista from the ground with a queck twest of her hand. Calistas arm was broken
Calista screamed in pain, but before she could make a sound Visienne quickly disabled all her tombe!
She then tossed Calista on the ground like a piece of garbage
Her movements were lightrung last, so quack that no one could clearly see how she struck. She stood grounded with hand supreme authority and indifference
Vivienne swept her gaze over the Brouks family and slowly ined. From now on, expose who dares to lay dogs
Her pretty face and soft vnice belied the mense pressure her worth serted
The Brooks was je sprachless
Viviente turned to Scott nonchalantly Mr Brooke (we incisparitatud yxa
It took a good five minutes after she had left before anyone from the Brooks dared to speak up.
Scott was the first to recover. He glanced at Calista with a look of disdain, but nevertheless ordered his staff, “Get her to the hospital. Spare no effort in treating her.”
After all, she was his daughter. He couldn’t just ignore her
At midnight
Vivienne had just finished with her work when there was a knock at her door
She rose to open it and found Tristan standing outside
He greeted her “Vivienne”
“Hmm” She acknowledged and stepped aside to let him in.
Tristan stepped into the room, walking as smoothly as any normal person would
Vivienne gestured towards the couch. “Have a seat.”
Tristan nodded and sat down
After a moment of silence, he reported, “Calista has been sent to the hospital”
“Alright, I got it Vivienne poured two glasses of water and handed one to Tristan.
Tristan took a sip, then looked at Vivienne as he tightened his lips. After a moment of hesitation, he finally asked, “I don’t understand. If you intended to incapacitate Calista. why let her return to the Brooks family?”
Chapter 345
Tristan gazed at Vivienne, whose face was eerily mirroring the familiar features of Karen. He felt a wave of guilt as he recalled his numerous past accusations against her
Never in his wildest dreams did he imagine that ten days ago, Vivienne would suddenly appear and heal his leg She also had him continue his recovery in the hospital and told him that she would get in touch with him after some time
His visit to the Brooks family today was instigated by a message from Vivienne
The truth about Calista’s lineage was revealed by Vivienne during his healing, along with some other shocking revelations.
He admitted that his feelings for Calista were real, but gratitude outweighed everything else to him
He had long lost his affection for Calista especially when he thought of things that she had done to Vivienne
Vivienne asked him to marry Calista, to which he reluctantly agreed
Vivienne took a sip of water, her gaze profound I’m waiting for an answer”
Tristan glanced at Vivienne, not sure what answer she was seeking But upon meeting her clear eyes, he suddenly felt that, just like Karen, she had her own reasons for everything she did
Tristan remained silent for a moment and didn’t dig further Instead, he asked, “What am I supposed to do next? Scott is already arranging for a doctor for Calista Am I truly supposed to marry her?”
Let him arrange it. Vivienne responded, a faint smile tugging at her lips
Tristan paused He was utterly unable to comprehend Vivienne’s intentions.
She incapacitated Calista, yet she was allowing Scott to heal her
Vivienne set her water glass down on the table, her tone indifferent, ‘Calista won’t want to marry you. You just need to accompany her and don’t worry about anything else
Tristan contemplated for a while, then simply responded, “Alright”
He didn’t ask further knowing that Vivienne wouldn’t spill anything even if he did.
He decided to just follow her instructions
After their brief conversation, Tristan departed
Vivienne closed the door pulled out her cellphone and dialed Matthew. She instructed him to withdraw all personnel from the entrances to Rivenwood
At the Ellington family
Just as Percival was about to call Vivienne. Thomas climbed in through the window
He walked up to Percival and greeted with respect, Percival! Paula has been delivered”
“Good” Percival responded, his face expressionless Keep an eye on her and Arabella. I don’t want them causing trouble for Vivienne again”
“Understood
Thomas responded but didn’t leave
Percival looked up at him Is there anything else?” he asked.
Thomas hesitated for a moment, then asked. “I can’t figure this out. Is Arabella really Paula’s daughter?”
Percival and he had both seen the DNA test between Arabella and Scott
There was no blood relation between the two
If Arabella was Paula’s biological daughter, then she should share some genetic relationship with Scott
But why were the test results as such?
After delivering Paula to where Arabella was, he pondered over this question for the entire journey but couldn’t crack it
She isn’t Percival responded, his voice was emotionless.
Thomas was taken aback ‘She isnit? Why is Paula then targeting Vivienne?”
He senously doubted that Paula had a brain issue
Arabella wasn’t even her biological daughter, yet she constantly schemed against Vivienne and even had Thaddeus kidnapped
Anyone close to Vivienne knew that if you messed with her, she might still show some mercy But if you harmed the ones she cared about, you would ver live a peacefu
Of course death wouldn’t be an easy way out either!
When Vivienne got ruthless, she could even surpass Percival in this realm
Perhaps she s insane? Percival quipped a wicked smile playing on his lips
Thomas paused Then curiosity got the better of ham. Then who is Paula’s daughter?
I don’t know Percival retorted shooting him a glance. And why should it concern me
Was he obliged to help an insane woman, who’s constantly scheming against Vivienne fod her daughter?
Thomas scratched his head and gave an awkward laugh. “Just curious
Paula had been desperately searching for her daughter to the point of insanity, and ended up mistaking Arabella as her child in the end, she alongside Arabella
And she would never know who her real daughter was
“Perhaps she has already died. Percival ubered nonchalantly
The following day
hapter
William and Scott posted Twitter updates simultaneously
William merely stated that from then on, the Pendleton family had no connection with Calista
He didn’t slander nor disclose specific details, given that he had raised Calista for over two decades, and a certain father–daughter bond still existed
He didn’t make things ugly
Scott simply announced that Calista was his daughter and later on she would be included in the Brooks family genealogy
He didn’t even mention the name change, nor did he add any extra words about Calista
Meanwhile, Calista was admitted to the Brooks family’s private hospital Scott concealed the news, keeping people in the dark about her current condition with paralyzed
limbs
These Twitter updates sparked a tirade of online insults
In this era of advanced information technology, someone dug up the past affair between Mila and Scott and spread it all over the internet.
Netizens were hurling all kinds of nasty comments
“Scott is such a scumbag, pretending to be a romantic all this while when he already had a secret daughter. Is this the kind of character top–tier families have? I’m utterly disgusted
“No wonder Karen bolted from her wedding years ago I would’ve done the same. Who would willingly marry into a mess of secret affairs?”
“I suspect Scott and Mila were having a clandestine affair, which is why they lured Karen into marrying Scott. It was all to cover up their dirty secret
“I agree with the comment above Just a while ago, the Brooks family acknowledged a daughter, rumored to be Karen’s. But she’s just 19, while Calista is already 22, three years older than Vivienne Doesn’t that mean Scott was two–timing Karen with Mila?”
“Agreed I heard that the Brooks and the Clark families had plans for a marriage Mila has always had a thing for Scott. They probably schemed Karen into this to hide their scandalous affair I reckon Karen might even be dead, possibly at their hands”
“Agreed”
“Can’t agree more
The public was unaware of Karen’s death and they associated the fact that Vivienne didn’t meet Karen when she was acknowledged by the Brooks family. They started speculating that if Karen did flee her wedding and give birth to Vivienne, then naturally, Vivienne would’ve been living with Karen
It didn’t make sense for Vivienne to return to the Brooks family without Karen
The most plausible reason for Karen’s absence was that she might have been dead.
Murdered by Scott and Mila, no less.
Consequently, virtuous netizens started to call the police and demanded the truth about Karen’s fate. If she was dead, they wanted to know if Mila was responsible
Suddenly, the whole internet was tagging the Rivenwood Police Department
Chapter 346
In just two hours, all the online chatter about Calista being the heiress of the Brooks family had almost vanished.
All that remained were headlines like “Searching for Karen that saturated the web.
Then, two hours later, an explosive Twitter post was released.
The posting person was Stephen
I am Stephen, a friend of Vivienne I know that her mother passed away ten years ago. She once told me that she and her mother were pursued by someone, which led to her mother’s death This incident has always been a sorrow for Vivienne I never mentioned her mother in front of her again. However, today seeing the post from the head of the Brooks family aroused my suspicions i Stephen, hereby officially accuse Scott and Mila of attempted murder and hope the police can investigate the truth to give Vivienne justice”
Stephen was a pop icon with nearly a billion fans As soon as he posted this it dropped a bomb on the whole internet world
His fans all shared his post
Even the hottest stars in the industry retweeted his post one after another.
In no time, with the influence of the celebrities and their fans the entire server was overwhelmed
This, in turn, caught the attention of the Riverwood police department
At breakfast time in the Brooks family.
Almost all the Brooks family members were present, except for Darren, who couldn’t make it due to work commitments
But every face was so grim
Scott publicly acknowledged Calista’s identity, which caused netizens to speculate that Karen might be dead and that she was killed by Scott and Mila. The Brooks family
was attacked after that
People were throwing eggs and tomatoes at the gates of the Brooks Mansion early that morning it wasn’t until the Brooks family security intervened that the situation was calmed down
At this point, no one had seen Stephen’s post yet
Vivienne had just come down and barely settled in when Kala suddenly exclaimed, “Oh no! Stephen posted something!
Vivienne paused and felt speechless.
Why is he joining the fray? She though!
Timothy frowned, “Stephen has nothing to do with the Brooks family. Why make a fuss over his post?”
Kala threw her phone on the table for Timothy to see. “Stephen and Vivienne are friends and he’s standing up for her! Scott, look at the mess you’ve made
Stephen was a superstar If he posted something it could drop a bomb on the entire internet!
She never imagined Scott would do something so foolish
What was so great about Calista? The Brooks family was put in this situation just because of her
Now not only was the Brooks family being attacked but her own Twitter was also filled with negative comments
in just over two hours, she had lost a million followers!
The fans were all cursing that there was no one good in the Brooks family except for Vivienne
She didnt care about losing followers or being criticized After all, what Scott did was indeed unfair to Vivienne
But what she did care about was that the Brooks family was being attacked online because of one Calsta
She was a total disaster
“What? Timothy picked up the phone and looked at the trending Twitter realizing that the entire internet was filled with tweets tagging the Riverwood puto
He stumped into his chart
Judith also took a look at the phone, she nearly fainted after that
She threw the phone at Scott and thumped the table shouting in anger. “What a disaster!!
Scott glanced at Stephens Twitter post his face was expressionless as he sat steady as a rock.
He then looked up at Vivienne, who slowly walked to a chair and sat down under his gaar She maintained a cold indifference.
After Vivienne sat down she looked back at him and didn’t avoid his gaze at all
After a long state–off Scott finally spoke up. Vivienne, du you believe what’s being said on Twit
Whether its true or false is not for me to decide Viviene turned hei gaze away picked up her turk and continued val
She was the only one at the table who could sul nat
Scott kept his gaze fixed on her So you had Stephen post tha to attract the attention of the pokca
Vivienne paused for a moment, then turned to look at Scott her expression was cold in what grunch i
“Wasnt it you” Scott looked at her as if trying to see through her
Vivienne let out a cold laugh. Does it even matter if I was the culpes ?
She put down her fork, stood up, walked over to Scott and looked down at hem, “My mutta
death, Mr Brooks would you care to explain why she had to run for her life?
Scott’s eyes narrowed slightly with an unveadable glitter in hún gaze.
A wicked smile tugged at Viviennes lips. “No rash! I have all the time in the world in the game- agree. Mr Brooks”
Chapter 346
Scott stared at her silently
Just then, there was a knock at the door
Shortly after, several uniformed officers walked in.
After showing their badges, they said in an official tone. “We are from the criminal investigation team. Mr. Brooks, you are a suspect in a murder case Please come with us for an investigation
Scott looked at them and slowly stood up. I understand”
He didn’t say anything else and followed the officers out.
Once Scott was taken away, the Brooks family was instantly thrown into chaos.
Judith promptly rose from her seat and approached Vivienne, taking her hands in hers Vivienne, I know you’ve been dealt a hard hand, but you have to believe me your mother’s death had nothing to do with your father I implore you, please explain the situation to the police”
Melissa chimed in, “Yes, your father may not have been married to your mother, but we all know he only had eyes for her He would never harm her”
Cheryl added. “Are you upset because your father acknowledged Calista? That wasn’t entirely his fault, after all, it was Mila and Paula who orchestrated the whole thing. Calista has been confirmed as your father’s child, so he couldn’t just ignore that Vivienne, for the sake of your father who’s been good to you, speak to the police and to Stephen ask him to take down the Twitter post.”
The Brooks family members began to plead collectively
Only Kala Ronald, and Cari remained silent.
Regardless of whether it was Vivienne who had done this, they had no right to beg her.
She had lost her mother tool
At the tender age of nine, she had witnessed her mother’s death. This grudge wouldn’t simply vanish with someone claiming that Scott wasn’t the murderer
Solid proof was needed!
Kala looked up at Vivienne and something dawned on her Vivienne had returned to the Brooks family for her revenge!
Yet, she couldn’t help but feel a bit of sympathy for her
If she were in the same situation, she might have made the same choice as Vivienne
Vivienne gently extracted her hands from Judiths grip and spoke with a neutral expression. The law will do justice for Mr. Brooks!”
Her plan didn’t include handing Scott over to the police, but that didn’t mean she objected to Stephen’s action
And of course, it certainly didn’t mean that Scott wouldn’t walk free unharmed.
Chapter 347
Just as Vivienne had anticipated, Scott stepped out of the police station really quick
In no time, the police issued a statement clearing Scott of any criminal involvement in Karen’s deaths
Mila, too, was under scrutiny, yet no suspicious behavior was found.
Despite the police’s announcement, the netizen group wasn’t that easily swayed
Everyone posted that while Scott and Mila might not be murderers, their affair was undeniable Scott’s betrayal of Karen was just as damning The scandal continued to sizzle online
Scott and Mila’s reputations plummeted
Meanwhile, Richard only found out about Calista being Scott’s daughter the next day over lunch
Being a man of certain age he rarely surfed the internet Besides, he had spent the previous day outdoors with an old friend. The folks of the Ellington family, who wouldn’t want to bother Richard with such matters, had chosen to keep it a secret
By the time Richard returned home, the news had exploded online. There was no way he could ignore it now
Furious. Richard stormed off to the nursing home to give Baron a piece of his mind.
Baron was so stanied by Richard’s outburst that he nearly passed off
Fuming, Baron shot back at Scott at the Brooks Mansion, announcing that he would not attend Calista’s reunion banquet. After venting his anger, he returned to the nursing home
Upon his return, his fury had not subsided. To make matters worse, he found his room had been stripped bare!
Not even a bed was left in the room
Baron roared in anger, Richard You old fool, may lightning strike you down!”
Two days later.
The online slander against Scott and Mila had quietened down
Meanwhile. Scott had been making frequent trips to the hospital to visit Calista
Excluding Kala, Ronald, and Carl, the Brooks family’s enthusiasm for Vivienne had dwindled all of a sudden. They would greet her out of courtesy but the conversations
remained short and superficial
Vivienne, however, was totally unfazed by their attitude
She had found a tutor for Thaddeus, who was Charlotte Redwood!
Originally, she had planned to ask Mr. James to help find a tutor for Thaddeus. But with Mr. James preoccupied with solving the mystery of Atticus lineage and fetching Ondine from the mountain region, Vivienne had to make other arrangements.
Ondine William’s childhood sweetheart and Mr. James’s adopted daughter, had chosen to teach in the mountain region after graduation. She had been there for twenty
years
The place she taught was thousands of miles away from Rivenwood Concerned for her safety, Mr James had fetched her personally
On top of that Atticus had been overseas for an academic competition it was only recently that he started making his way back
With Ondine and Atticus, mother and son, preparing to reunite with William, Mr James was also busy preparing Vivienne decided to find a friendly, patient tutor to Thaddeus who had been traumatized for several times by his experiences in Havenwood and Riverwood. His physic trauma was so intense that he had backed away with
contact
Charlotte volunteered to become the tutor when she heard about this
Without hesitation Vivienne agreed
As this years college entrance test champion Charlotte was not only academically gifted but also possessed a good character Vivienne felt at ease teaching Thaddeus
Just as Vivienne had settled Thaddeus Percival called
“Vivienne. I we arrived Percival’s voice was gentle and filled with an irresistible charm
Humming in acknowledgment. Vivienne rose from her seat and headed for the door
Percivals car was parked in front of the Brouks Mansion it
As she was about to fasten her seat belt Percival beat her to it
the same inconspicuous seden
As he leaned over a faint scent of tobacco emanated from him not unpleasant at all
Vivienne glanced at tum Has Fiona left?
Fiona had invited her to an art exhibition prenously Whele Vivienne had re
- she accepted the invita
The exhibition was originally scheduled for a few days back but was postponed to today due to unduressen uincum ipsa
“Yes” Percival started the car his voice heutral She left with Jeffrey
Vivienne paused, Jeffrey is going too?
“The exhibition is organized by Jeffrey Percival replied unperturbed
“He’s quite the artist” Vivienne quipped smiling
Percival chuckled, “Henry’s people have been causing some trouble recently
Vivienne raised an eyebrow at that. So Mr Wolf do you want me to help you fight off these troublemakers?
Percival cleared his throat, “Ahem! Vivienne, someone from the Elington farmly a vti huẳng in the shadows. i havent fount i
Vivienne’s lips curled up in understanding “Got it‘
did not say much after that
Soon, they arrived at the art museum.
Fiona and Jeffrey were already waiting at the entrance
Seeing them approach, Fiona greeted them with a warm smile, ‘Percival, Vivienne, here you are
Jeffrey merely glanced at Percival and Vivienne with an eyeful of impatience. He didn’t ever want to greet them
“Yes. Let’s go in Percival responded He was apathetic and almost expressionless while leading Vivienne into the exhibition hall
Looking at their retreating figures. Fiona’s eyes narrowed momentarily before she quickly regained her composure and followed them inside. Jeffrey, of course, followed
BUIL
Inside the exhibition hall
The hall was exquisitely decorated The paintings hung on the walls were clearly high in value
Fiona spotted a few familiar faces and went to greet them.
As the owner of the gallery, Jeffrey had to attend to some matters and stepped away momentarily
That left Percival and Vivienne alone
As they strolled deeper into the gallery, Vivienne glanced at the various artworks, then turned to Percival, asking. “Did he create all of these?”
Had she been out of touch for so long? She recognized several paintings on the wall from somewhere.
But the artists names didn’t seem to read Jeffrey!
“Some are by artists he’s signed, a few are his own creations, Percival replied as he motioned towards a display case nearby, “let’s just say those ones.
Following his direction, Vivienne looked over and took in the eclectic collection. She was speechless as her brows juddered a little. “Definitely his style!
Percival’s lips curled up slightly. Indeed”
Vivienne continued on, not particularly interested in these less–than–masterful pieces.
Whispers suddenly filled the gallery. This painting is a real gem, probably the best one here.”
“Why hasn’t the artist’s name been mentioned? I’d like to request another piece from them.”
“Can you really request a specific artist? I want to do the same!”
Vivienne looked in the direction of the voices
A crowd was gathered around a particular artwork, lavishing it with praise.
Intrigued Vivienne wondered what sort of painting had captured their attention.
While many pieces in the gallery could dupe the untrained eye, those same folks wouldn’t be arguing over who’d get to commission the artist.
With that thought, she stepped towards the commotion.
Percival followed Vivienne’s pace
When Vivienne reached the painting, she halted; her gaze intensified as a hint of hostility emanated from her.
Percival noticed her reaction and raised his eyes. His pupils shrunk.
Indeed, the painting was remarkable
It depicted a figure’s silhouette from the back. Despite its simplicity, it conveyed a sense of profound solitude
Both color scheme and composition were superior to most works in the gallery.
However, the person in the painting was Karen!
Chapter 348
In no time, a gallery associate made his way over, “Good day, sir. Can I assist you in any way?”
“I want to commission the artist of this painting to create a portrait for my mother’s 70th birthday celebration.”
The associate gave him an apologetic look, “I’m afraid that won’t be possible, sir. The art is done by our gallery owner. He doesn’t take on private
commissions
As the associate’s words hung in the air, a visible shift in Vivienne’s demeanor was apparent.
Jeffrey Ellington really had the audacity!
“Can you call your boss over here? I’d like to discuss this with him,” the man insisted.
No sooner had the man finished speaking, Jeffrey himself appeared. “Who’s looking for me?”
The man was clearly familiar with Jeffrey, “Isn’t this Mr. Ellington? You own this gallery too?”
The Ellington family was a well–known entity in the circle
The arrogant Paul, the motorcycle–obsessed Earl, Jeffrey, Fiona, and even the youngest Ellingtons, Kenneth and Isolde, were known to everyone
Perhaps the only Ellington they knew little about was Percival, who was thought to be disabled.
“Of course,” Jeffrey replied with a dismissive tone, “Just how many galleries in Rivenwood do you think aren’t mine?”
The man didn’t dare offend Jeffrey, and his posture slumped a bit involuntarily, “Right, right. I was wondering why this painting was so exceptional It turned out that the painting was yours.”
“As long as you appreciate it, that’s all that matters. As for your mother’s portrait, I’ll have one of our staff artists take care of it. Consider it a token of my appreciation for your taste
The man, publicly humiliated by Jeffrey, couldn’t save his dignity. But all he could do was chuckle awkwardly and express his gratitude
Jeffrey huffed, sweeping his gaze over the crowd until he spotted Percival and Vivienne at the back.
“Since we’re all here at my exhibition, I’d like to introduce two special guests,” a smirk tugged at his lips before he pointed towards Percival, This is my cousin, Percival I’m sure you all know him.”
The crowd turned to look at Percival and gasped in surprise.
“Isn’t Percival supposed to be wheelchair–bound? How is he standing? Am I hallucinating?”
The news of Percival’s recovery was only known to a few close families in Rivenwood. To the public, Percival was still believed to be disabled.
“No, you’re not hallucinating. I saw him walk in too. He’s standing right there.”
“Good heavens! The Ellingtons must have some top–notch doctors in their network. They managed to cure a disabled man!”
“Having such a powerful doctor in their corner definitely solidifies the Ellingtons‘ status in Rivenwood.”
While the crowd was still buzzing, Jeffrey gestured towards Vivienne, “And this is Vivienne, my cousin Percival’s fiancee
After the Brooks family hosted their family reunion party, the Ellington family was going to host another party to publicize Vivienne and Perovals engagement, but the party was pushed back when Richard was attacked after mistakenly riding in Percival’s car
And they hadn’t nail down the exact time. Vivienne didn’t let them do it. She was too busy to attend any parties.
News of Vivienne and Percival’s engagement was still a well–guarded secret among their close circle. Thus, many at the exhibition were hearing it for the first time
Although Eddy’s two live streaming before let a large netizen group know their relationships, but those were from the younger generation. The people who came to the exhibition today were company board members, those people were older and rarely read gossip news in that case they never knew their relationship
As the crowd turned their attention to Vivienne, expressions of shock spread across some of the faces
“Isn’t that Vivienne Brooks, the lady of the Brooks family?”
The Brooks family’s reunion banquet for Vivienne had drawn the attention of everyone in their circle
Scott admitted Karen as the only love of his life. That was why people admired their fairy–tale love story. And when they admitted Calista, the Brooks family shot into the spotlight
So each member’s life in the Brooks family was flipped through by the netizen group Their stories were so hyped up that everyone in the circle had to pay them attention
“Ah, that makes sense I saw Percival and Vivienne together at the engagement party So, the Ellingtons and the Brooks are uniting through
marriage.”
“With the top two families joining forces, it’s a power couple in the making!”
“And Vivienne is quite a beauty. She’s dressed so simply, yet she stands out like a painting come to life.”
Hearing the crowd’s praises, Jeffrey’s face hardened. He wasn’t here to listen to them fawn over Percival and Vivienne.
With Paul in the police station, there was no one to steal his thunder. It was his time to shine.
Jeffrey chuckled, “Percival, Vivienne, since you two are engaged, I haven’t prepared a gift for you. Allow me to offer this painting as a token of my congratulations”
He gestured at the painting “I’d like to invite Vivienne to share her thoughts on it.”
All eyes turned to Vivienne. As the daughter of the Brooks family, commenting on a piece of art should be a simple task.
Vivienne glanced up at him, her imposing aura pulling back, her hands shoved into her pockets, her attitude a bit roguish, “This is plagiarized How could you possibly have the nerve to ask me to critique it?”
Everyone gasped in shock!
Plagiarism?
How could that be?
Until today, they had never seen any other artist exhibit this painting.
Jeffrey’s eyes flashed with surprise, but he quickly regained his composure, “I was simply giving you a gift. If you disdain it, you could have just declined Why do you have to throw such a heavy accusation at me? Do you realize how much of an insult plagiarism is to an artist?”
Vivienne flashed him a wicked smile, “So, you are very sure that you didn’t plagiarize?
“Absolutely!” Jeffrey responded confidently
As soon as he finished speaking, someone spoke up in his defense, “Vivienne, we shouldn’t make accusations without evidence.”
“Right, you’re suggesting that Mr. Ellington plagiarized but do you have any proof?”
Vivienne shot the two people a glance, they were the ones who had just asked Jeffrey to paint.
She retracted her gaze and stowed her smile away. She said in a cold tone, “When did you paint this?”
“A few years ago!” Jeffrey replied without any hesitation.
Vivienne smirked, “You said you painted this years ago. But why did you use this year’s newly manufactured paint?”
Jeffrey was taken aback. It strike him that she could literally discern the paint.
The paint he used for this painting was indeed newly developed this year.
This brand of paint had brighter colors and a longer oxidation time, and was currently popular among artists.
“Yes, this painting was indeed made with new paint. The colors are more accurate, and it’s easier to mix the shades I want.”
“Exactly, it’s the latest development. I just bought it yesterday”
Chapter 349
Jeffrey could feel the whispers of the crowd beginning to swirl around him. His face visibly paled.
He turned to Vivienne with a hint of desperation in his voice, “You’re accusing me of plagiarism just based on a paint? That’s a pretty wild assumption, don’t you think?”
His words were hollow and fraught with quilt.
Because he had plagiarized another painting indeed
He first saw it during his trip to the Mirelia Continent, displayed in a renowned local art gallery. He had wanted to purchase it but was informed t wasn’t for sale and would only be on display for three days
So, he took a photo of it and, upon his return, recreated it for his own gallery exhibition
He never imagined Vivienne would discover his deceit
Wasn’t she raised within the mountain and seldom venturing out? And she had only recently returned to the Brooks family How could she possibly know”
Vivienne raised her eyes, her expression was impassive. “The painting is called Recollections It was the artist’s tribute to her mother. The bracelet worn by the woman in the painting, even her attire, were all personally chosen by the artist for her mother And this painting was only ever displayed overseas. It’s not for sale!”
Her eyes narrowed and a sharp arrow of accusation shot out, “When you decided to copy it, did you ever consider whether or not you could handle the consequences if the original artist found out?”
Her aura changed suddenly and exuded a palpable sense of danger
The painting was her tribute to her mother
It was the memory of her mother’s silhouette that had left the deepest impression on her
Her mother had taken her shopping for the first time since they had gone into hiding She had bought Vivienne numerous items but had bought nothing for herself
Vivienne had admired the bracelet and thought it sulted her mother’s elegant bearing. She had lied, saying that she loved seeing her
it Only then had her mother agreed to buy it
The outfit her mother was wearing was also bought at Vivienne’s insistence.
That day, watching her mother’s retreating figure as she went to pay the bill, Vivienne felt it was the happiest day of her life
But that evening, her mother committed suicide by poisoning herself
She was wearing the outfit and the bracelet that Vivienne had chosen for her
During her years at the Emerald Mountain monastery. Vivienne would often recall that moment and sketch it. The painting was carefuly preserved by her
When she had to leave Emerald Mountain, she left the painting behind
Dawson the man who was cleaning the monastery that day, had seen the painting Captivated by its beauty, he sent
Soor people started looking for her wanting to display the painting in their galleries
She had declined several times but finally agreed when an offer she couldn’t refuse was presented. However, the painting was not for sale
As a result, it was only displayed for three days before
taken down
Jeffrey was taken aback by her intensity. He took a step back and thed to defend himself. “You’ve got al your facts straight, but who a the (anginal artist then? Apart from this painting are there any other works? An artal capable of such an exquate piece mamy ha work right?
Vivienne looked at him, her eyes cold. ‘Her name is Eulalia “
“Eulalia” someone in the crowd exclaimed
“Eulalia is a mysterious artist Many countries have invited her to paint but she has abraço decret
“It’s not just that Eulalia’s paintings have a wout her works start at a svadinas at even the aegi who
collect her art
Jeffrey was taken aback. He hadn’t expected Virenne to know no touch.
Even the artists name
Suppressing his parus, he spoke up agam. “So you say it’s Balaka, and we shimolitpur tang sou malo kayane kinders ter paintings, are auctioned off by the National Art Gitary if it’s really her work, han de this painting
He stubbornly refused to adine his crithe
After all, Fulaka’s partings were at the National Aut Glory or price re
in
They would never just appear in the open!
Vivienne was just a recent addition to the Brooks family, a mere debutante. She couldn’t ever bring Eulalia to the scene
Vivienne’s icy gaze fell on him as a slow smile spread across her face. “During my time in the mountain, I dabbled in painting and took the name Eulalia What a coincidence, don’t you think?” she asked
Everyone in the room was stunned on hearing that
Eulalia was Vivienne?
How could that be possible”
She wasn’t even twenty yet. How could she create such breathtaking art?
“Huh! What a coincidence indeed Jeffrey scoffed “But I would advise you to choose a different name I understand your desire for fame, but Eulalia’s name isn’t one to be trifled with
“Is that so” Vivienne replied, her voice indifferent. She picked up her phone and dialed a number
The call was quickly answered, and a respectful voice on the other end greeted her. “Miss Eulalia, what a pleasant surprise. Do you hav piece for us?
Vivienne switched the call to speakerphone. The moment the voice was heard, a hush fell over the crowd
Even Jeffrey was stunned
That voice belonged to the secretary to the director of the National Art Gallery
Every artist dreamed of having their work displayed in the National Art Gallery, having a painting there would instantly skyrocket their fame
Vivienne actually knew the director’s secretary, and he had just referred to her as Miss Eulalia?
How was that possible”
Before he could recover, Vivienne spoke again with an icy voice. “The Ellington family’s second grandson, Jeffrey, plaganized my painting Recollections What should be done about this?”
The person on the other end of the line paused, then replied seriously, “We will investigate this matter thoroughly! And we will immediately sue the other party on your behalf and close up the gallery!”
“Very well You handle it Vivienne said and hung up
Jeffrey was stunned
A lawsuit?
Closing up the gallery?
This couldn’t be happening
His gallery had just opened recently, and this exhibition was supposed to boost his reputation if the gallery was closed, what
He would never be able to make a living as an artist again!
As he was about to speak a staff member rushed in “Boss were in trouble The National Art Gallery has sent us a legal notice and remove all the paintings from the gallery immediately
No sooner than the man finished speaking another staff member sprinted over. “Bad news? Some guys clam Galery just showed up. They re saying they re going to shut us down!”
Jeffrey was completely flabbergasted by this turn of eventa
“How could this happen? he couldn’t believe it. Hi meticulously planned art exhibition was shyit –
be from the Nai
Jeffrey jerked his head to look at Vivienne his teeth gritted in age. It’s your You are behend að of these hothong good has happened veÌNH, ĐẢNG got engaged to Peroivat You firat threw Paulinto jail and now you re cuming my art
WIN
gry roar Jeffrey lunged at Vienne Tau akut 17 kill you?”
Percival stepped in front of Vin
rith a segir hạnd his stem face was devosi vi
dare you
Chapter 350
Percival’s grip was so strong that Jeffrey winced under the pressure.
“Ouch! That hurts!”
Percival stared at him coldly, his voice frigid, “What did you just call her?”
“I…I didn’t call her anything I was calling myself a slut!” Jeffrey quickly responded.
He didn’t have many redeeming qualities, but compared to Paul, his greatest advantage was his ability to give and take.
Percival let go of him, his voice deep. “The art galleries under your name will be closed from today. You have one day. If you can’t do it, I’ll tear them down myself
By copying Vivienne’s most cherished painting, he should be thankful that Percival didn’t ruin him. He should be grateful that they shared the same last name, Ellington.
Jeffrey felt a wave of resentment but dared not show it on his face, not in the face of Percival and Vivienne’s murderous glares, “I’m still your cousin anyway. Your actions today aren’t just humiliating me, they’re also humiliating the Ellington family. Have you thought about that?”
“You’re the one who’s humiliating yourself. What does that have to do with me and Vivienne?” Percival retorted in a casual tone while he was fixing his disheveled clothes.
He didn’t care about the reputation of the Ellington family.
If it weren’t for the fact that the Ellingtons were built by his grandfather, he wouldn’t‘ t still keep himself as part of this family as these people
thought.
He never needed the Ellington family’s glory to survive!
“But you’re still a part of the Ellington family!” Jeffrey shot back defiantly.
He had always been outclassed by Percival as a child. He had thought that once Percival was deemed useless, no one would stand in his way. But he had miscalculated
Percival was not useless, he was pretending!
It seemed he had to rethink his plans. He couldn’t just let Percival take over the Ellingtons!
“And so?” Percival raised an eyebrow, his gaze devoid of warmth.
Infuriated, Jeffrey couldn’t comprehend how Percival could be so indifferent.
If he was humiliated, how would that benefit Percival?
But it was clear that Percival was determined to have him shut down his art galleries. Those galleries, which he had spent a fortune to establish, were meant to help him take over the Ellingtons one day.
If they were closed, what could he use against Percival?
No way!
He couldn’t let the galleries closel
With that thought, Jeffrey suddenly shouted, “Fiona, where the hell are you? If you don’t show up now, Percival will be the death of me
Fiona, who had been silently observing the drama, felt a wave of disdain at Jeffrey’s cry.
He is so useless!
He was messing with Vivienne in his gallery! He really didn’t know what he was capable of
How could Percival, who was so protective of Vivienne, let him go?
Fiona sighed and stepped forward
Looking at Jeffrey, then at Percival, she asked with a confused look, “What’s going on?”
“Fiona, you’ve always been close with our cousin, Percival Can you help me out here? I don’t want to close the art galleries!” Jeffrey clutched at his straws and pleaded hastily
Among the Ellingtons, Fiona was the closest to Percival besides Kenneth
Everyone else had their own agendas
Fiona frowned, “What have you done? Why does Percival want you to close the galleries?”
Jeffrey was frustrated. He was not in the mood to explain the situation but he still needed her help So he explained the whole thing
Upon hearing the story, Fiona scolded, “Jeffrey you foult if you want to be an artist, then focus on creating your own work Why would you plagiarize? Vivienne said that painting was a tribute to her mother Of course she would be angry if you copied it
Jeffrey was so infuriated that he felt like cursing
I asked you to help, not to scold me! He thought
1421
Chapter 350
Fiona gave him a harsh look before she turned to Vivienne, “Vivienne, I’m sorry. I didn’t know about this. If I had known earlier, I would have tried to stop him. Can you do me a favor and let this go?”
Vivienne looked at her with a semi–smile on her face, “So, you want me to just let the plagiarist off the hook?”
“No, my brother was definitely wrong. He should be punished. Fiona thought for a moment before saying, “How about this? I’ll give you a set of jewelry, which is my latest design that hasn’t been showcased yet. Can this be my apology on Jeffrey’s behalf?”
Vivienne smirked, “Do you think I lack jewelry?”
Fiona paused before suggesting. “How about a compensation? Name your price. As long as it’s within our means, we’ll try our best to satisfy you.” Vivienne gave her a glance, “Do I look poor to you?”
A cold glint passed through Fiona’s eyes. She was truly stubborn.
“Why don’t you propose a condition?” Fiona suggested in the same soft voice.
Vivienne turned to Percival, “Mr. Wolf, what do you think?”
Seeing Vivienne ask for Percival’s opinion, Fiona quickly interjected, “Percival, can’t you just let this go for the sake of our family? Just tell her to let him off the hook.”
Percival looked at her impassively, not uttering a word.
Fiona continued, “Percival, can’t you just let this slide for my sake? We will make it up to Vivienne.”
At that, Percival’s thin lips slowly curled up into a grin as he turned his head to look at Vivienne Hawthorn. “Can you do a favor for my cousin?” he asked
Vivienne chuckled, “Sure! I’ll do this for your dear cousin!”
Fiona was somewhat taken aback. She hadn’t expected her influence over Percival to be that strong
Fiona laughed, “Thank you guys. Vivienne, if you want any compensation, feel free to tell me.”
Vivienne propped her chin on one hand and thought for a moment before saying, “Well, I’ll take money!”
“Deal” Fiona agreed readily. “How about a hundred million dollars?” she asked.
Vivienne gave her a look that said, You think you’re dealing with a beggar?”
Fiona blinked, “Too little? Then how about three hundred million?”
Her family had snatched nearly ten billion dollars over the years, so giving away three hundred million wasn’t a problem.
More importantly, if she had gained more trust from Percival, that would make things easier in the future
Vivienne didn’t say a word.
Why was she only worth a hundred million or three hundred million?
Seeing Vivienne’s silent, Fiona’s brow furrowed almost imperceptibly. “What amount do you think is appropriate?”
“Ten billion dollars!” Vivienne said coolly.
“What!?” Jeffrey suddenly exclaimed, “Ten billion? Why not just rob a bank? You can’t even rob ten billion from a bank! You want ten billion for a lousy painting?”
Fiona’s face wasn’t looking too good either.
Their entire fortune was just ten billion dollars. How could they possibly give it all to Vivienne?
The brat was definitely here to take advantage of their wealth!
Percival cast a dismissive glance at him, took Vivienne’s hand and turned to leave, “Vivienne, let’s go. We’re off to rip apart some art gales”
Jeffrey was immediately silenced
Those damn lovebirds!
“Wait!” Fiona suddenly called out to stop them, declaring “Alright, ten billion it is!”