Chapter 43

Vivian Bennett shook her head desperately.

Her entire body burned as she struggled against Liam Sullivan's restraint.

His kisses fell upon her like a torrent, pinning her against the back seat of the car.

Their lips tangled, breaths scorching hot.

Vivian nearly suffocated.

He finally released her.

She gasped for air, shoving him away violently before bolting from the vehicle.

Vivian sprinted all the way to the elevator, trembling as she pressed the button for her floor.

The doors slid open, and she dashed out.

"Vivian?"

A familiar voice called out.

She looked up to see her cousin Grace Harper standing at her doorway, holding a fruit basket.

"Cousin Grace?" Vivian approached in surprise.

Grace offered a strained smile. "I came to check on you."

Vivian noticed her red-rimmed eyes, clear evidence of recent tears.

She hurriedly fumbled for her keys. "Come in, please."

Grace stepped into the apartment, glancing around.

"This is really nice," she said with genuine admiration.

Her worries about her younger cousin struggling alone finally eased.

Vivian handed her a glass of water. "You should visit more often."

Grace settled on the couch, hesitating before asking. "The rent must be expensive?"

A slight smile touched Vivian's lips. "The landlord needed someone quickly. It's only a third of the market rate."

"That's wonderful," Grace sighed in relief.

They chatted about recent events for a while.

Vivian studied her puffy eyes. "Did you argue with Jason again?"

Grace's expression tightened. She shook her head.

"It wasn't Jason..."

"Then who?" Vivian pressed urgently.

Was someone else bullying her cousin?

Grace lowered her gaze, words caught in her throat.

Vivian grew more anxious. "What happened?"

After a moment of silence, Grace spoke softly. "We had dinner at the Harpers today. My mother-in-law complained publicly about me not having children..."

Vivian frowned. "You just had a miscarriage six months ago?"

How could she possibly be pregnant again so soon?

Grace's eyes dimmed. "They think I failed to protect the baby..."

Vivian couldn't contain her anger. "This wasn't your fault alone!"

Six months ago, while staying with her cousin, Jason had resented her presence.

Grace had argued with him while defending Vivian, leading to the accidental miscarriage.

Ultimately, Jason shared responsibility.

How could the Harpers blame only Grace?

Grace smiled bitterly. "My mother-in-law is just using this to establish authority over me."

Vivian looked at her cousin with aching heart.

That mother-in-law had always been difficult.

She acted superior simply for having borne a son.