Chapter 319

Alexander stood tall in his impeccably tailored Armani suit, the midnight blue fabric accentuating his broad shoulders and lean frame.

His golden complexion glowed under the garden lights, every movement exuding aristocratic grace.

This was the Alexander that Victoria had desperately wanted to claim when she first laid eyes on him.

For years, she had schemed and manipulated to keep him by her side.

Yet now, this perfect man was holding hands with another woman.

Victoria's blood boiled as she glared at Vivian walking beside Alexander. The worst part? She had mistaken Vivian's stunning emerald gown as her own—only to realize Alexander had commissioned it specifically for Vivian.

All her anticipation had been for nothing.

Reality had slapped her hard across the face.

Alexander naturally commanded attention wherever he went. The garden guests immediately noticed his arrival—and the elegant woman on his arm.

Vivian wasn't conventionally beautiful, yet something about her captivated every gaze.

The dress was exquisite, but it merely served to highlight Vivian's natural elegance.

Her posture was regal, her skin like polished porcelain leaving a faint trace of jasmine in her wake.

Her smile was effortless yet utterly mesmerizing.

Murmurs spread through the crowd. "Isn't that Vivian Prescott?"

"The founder and creative director of Lady Belle."

"She was the star of Lady Belle's anniversary gala last month."

"She looks strikingly similar to Mr. Blackwood's ex-wife. How did they become involved?"

"I heard Alexander's been visiting Diamond Boulevard frequently to see her. Their relationship must be serious."

"Rumor has it Victoria was assaulted last month. Maybe that's why Alexander left her for Vivian—"

A sharp gasp cut through the gossip.

Victoria's nails dug into her palms as the whispers stabbed at her back.

She was seconds from exploding, but the social setting forced her to maintain composure.

Eleanor, however, had no such restraint. She stormed forward. "Vivian Prescott."

Vivian paused, meeting Eleanor's furious gaze with polite curiosity. "Mrs. Kingsley, can I help you?"

"I'm perfectly fine," Eleanor sneered. "But you won't be!"

Her hand flew out—

Crack!

The slap sent Vivian's face snapping to the side. She blinked, momentarily dazed.

The sting on her cheek was nothing compared to the ache in her chest. She hadn't expected her own mother to strike her.

Victoria smirked in satisfaction.

Alexander's eyes darkened dangerously. "Have you lost your mind? How dare you lay hands on my companion?"

"Companion?" Eleanor scoffed. "Alexander, I won't humiliate Victoria publicly, but this homewrecker needs to be dealt with!"

She raised her hand again—

Alexander moved like lightning, pulling Vivian protectively against him while catching Eleanor's wrist mid-swing.

"Try that again," he growled, shoving her back with enough force to make her stumble.

Victoria rushed to steady her mother. "Mom! Are you alright?" Tears welled in her eyes as she whispered, "Please, just let it go. If Alexander wants to be with Vivian, then so be it. I've already suffered enough—I can't bear to see you hurt too."