Chapter 589

Vivian Lockwood turned to face Evelyn Sinclair.

Gone was yesterday's hesitant demeanor. Today, Vivian carried herself with sharp professionalism, every inch the formidable attorney. Yet that icy brilliance in her gaze remained unforgettable.

"Ms. Sterling, forgive the intrusion. Might you have a moment?"

Evelyn considered briefly. Though they moved in different circles, she couldn't deny the pang of recognition at Vivian's circumstances. Their paths bore striking similarities.

"Come in."

Bennett stepped forward to open the office door. Evelyn entered first, Vivian following.

"Would you care for refreshments?"

"Black coffee, thank you."

Evelyn settled into her chair, her eyes flickering instinctively toward the stock market display. The numbers told a brutal story.

Most glaringly, the Whitmore family stocks were in freefall. Hundreds of millions evaporated within minutes of market opening.

Vivian's tailored suit spoke of competence, perfectly befitting her legal background.

"Ms. Lockwood, what brings you here today?"

Vivian hesitated, then offered a tight smile.

"I've come to ask for your assistance, Ms. Sterling."

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "Continue."

"You're aware of last night's... events. While my firm remains operational, potential clients avoid me out of deference to the Whitmores. At this rate, I'll be forced to close within weeks."

Her laugh held no humor. "We share similar marital histories. But unlike you, I lack resources. My family was ruined by Tristan Whitmore. Last night was my final act of defiance."

Evelyn's pulse quickened, though her expression remained composed.

"The Whitmores have already lost nearly a billion today. Don't underestimate your impact."

Vivian leaned forward. "I'm here to shamelessly request your investment. With your backing, the Whitmores' influence becomes irrelevant."

Silence stretched between them.

Evelyn understood immediately. While the wedding scandal made waves, high society's memory was notoriously short. Without independent success, Vivian would fade into obscurity while the Whitmores weathered yet another storm.

The request was simple. For Evelyn, barely an inconvenience.

"Consider it done."

Vivian blinked. "Just like that?"

Evelyn's smile held genuine warmth. "You did what I never dared. Of course I'll support you."

Relief washed over Vivian's features. "Thank you."

Evelyn tapped her pen thoughtfully. "But if we're doing this, we do it properly. High-profile launch requires high-profile maintenance."

She outlined strategies with practiced ease - courting society figures, celebrity endorsements, strategic networking. Vivian listened, admiration growing.

Evelyn's pen stilled mid-air as inspiration struck. Her eyes gleamed.

"What about a reality series? Successful divorced women rebuilding their lives. It would resonate powerfully. Your thoughts?"

The idea hung between them, electric with potential.