Chapter 102

Vivian Bennett froze.

The young man her grandmother mentioned was Liam Sullivan.

She quickly explained, "Grandma, he's my boss."

Grandma Margaret smiled knowingly. "Your boss? He clearly has feelings for you."

Vivian's cheeks flushed instantly.

Grandma Margaret held her hand, her gaze tender. "Vivian, no one has truly cared for you since your mother passed."

Vivian reassured her softly, "Grandma, I can take care of myself."

Life had been difficult right after her mother's death.

Her stepmother Linda was harsh. Her half-brother Brandon bullied her. Even outsiders felt free to mistreat her.

No one ever stood up for her.

Over the years, she learned to face everything alone.

She grew accustomed to bearing burdens herself. To supporting herself.

Now she was strong enough. She no longer needed anyone's protection.

Grandma Margaret still worried. "It's good that you can take care of yourself. But if someone truly cherishes and protects you, I could rest easy even after I'm gone."

Vivian's eyes welled up. "Grandma, you will live to be a hundred!"

Grandma Margaret chuckled. "Silly child, no one actually becomes an old monster. My only concern now is you... still without a partner..."

"Being single isn't so bad. I can live a fulfilling life on my own," Vivian gently persuaded.

Grandma Margaret winked at her. "I think your boss is quite good. Handsome and clearly interested in you. Why not consider him?"

Vivian hadn't expected her grandmother to speak in Liam's favor.

No matter how suitable he seemed, anything between them was impossible.

They came from different worlds. How could they ever be together?

"Grandma, don't joke about that. He really is just my boss..." Vivian awkwardly explained again.

The private dining room door opened just then.

Waiters began serving dishes.

Vivian quickly served her grandmother, seizing the chance to change the subject.

The elderly lady enjoyed her meal, soon chatting happily about food and amusing stories.

A phone suddenly rang.

It was her best friend Sophia Miller calling.

After explaining to her grandmother, Vivian stepped out to take the call.

Sophia had just returned from abroad. She was injured during a mission and wanted to see Vivian.

Vivian promised to visit after finishing dinner with her grandmother.

Hanging up, she hurried back to the private room.

Worried about her friend's injury, she quickened her pace.

A tall figure abruptly blocked her path.

Her wrist was seized forcefully.

Liam Sullivan dragged her all the way to the garden outside the restaurant.

"Boss Liam?"

Vivian struggled in shock.

His grip tightened, leaving no room for escape.

He trapped her between a tree trunk and his chest.

One hand pressed against the tree near her ear.

He looked down at her with a cold glare.