To Love a Shadow, To Be the Sun novel Chapter 129

Elara shot up from her chair on instinct.

Brian's cold gaze swept over her, and only after confirming she was fully dressed did the chill in his eyes ease, if only slightly.

But as his attention shifted back to Ryan, who lounged carelessly with nothing but a loose towel slung around his hips, that relaxed posture seemed deliberately provocative. Brian's jaw tightened once more.

"So, Vice President Lawrence, what brings you here to meet with my wife?" His voice was calm, but the tension was unmistakable as he stepped into the room.

Ryan, who had crossed paths with Brian before, didn't seem rattled in the slightest. "It's a spa resort. Is there something wrong with discussing business while enjoying the hot springs?"

Brian let out a humorless laugh. "That's odd. I never knew my wife had business dealings with you."

He strode toward the table where some documents lay.

Elara immediately moved to block his path. "Who I see and what I do are none of your business, Mr. Vincent. Please leave."

Brian's lips curled in a cold smile, though his eyes were frigid as ever. He grabbed her by the elbow, pulling her close. "We're not divorced yet. Legally, you're still Mrs. Vincent. And I really can't stand seeing what's mine covered in someone else's fingerprints."

Elara jerked her arm free. "Rest assured, Mr. Vincent. Even if I weren't Mrs. Vincent, I'd still keep myself above reproach. After all…" She deliberately drew out the end of her sentence, "…not everyone can spin the scandal of cheating with their stepsister into some kind of ‘family devotion'."

Ryan couldn't help but laugh at that.

Brian's expression darkened, and he shoved Elara aside.

"Careful!" Ryan darted forward and caught Elara just before she stumbled.

Elara was determined not to let Brian turn his wrath on Ryan. Whether or not he was truly Ryan Lawrence, she didn't want him dragged into her mess.

She lowered her voice and said, "Vice President Lawrence, thank you for your help today. Please thank your brother as well for introducing us…"

Brian's eyes narrowed at that.

"…I'm truly grateful for his kindness, and I'll remember everything he's done for me," Elara finished, giving Brian an obvious target for his anger and keeping Ryan safe.

Ryan was clearly stunned, but managed a stiff nod.

Brian, arm still around Elara, led her toward the door. He paused and looked back. "Vice President Lawrence, since you've only just returned to the country, you might not know that Celestial Springs is the real highlight of this resort. My wife and I are hosting a dinner there tonight at eight. We'd be delighted if you and your brother could join us."