Chapter 746
“Take a seat,” Vivian said, then turned and lifted the curtain to step into a small room inside. Through the beaded curtain, I saw her light some incense, bow to a memorial tablet, and then come back out.
I was startled. Was there a memorial for someone in there?
Vivian came back out, and the housekeeper had already brewed the coffee. Vivian sat down.
“There’s a memorial tablet for Ryan’s grandmother in there. Every time I come by, I light some incense for her,” she explained.
Oh, so it was Ryan’s grandma.
Vivian took a sip of her coffee. “When she was alive, she treated me so well. She was born into a prestigious family – graceful and poised, always patient and modest. I was truly lucky to have a sister like her.”
My mind was a mess of complicated thoughts. Women back then were honestly incredible – they could put up with their husbands having several wives and mistresses, and would bend over backwards just to compete for his attention.
If the roles were reversed, would people judge her for it?
“Do you look down on Edward just because I’m his mother?” Vivian looked up at me, her gaze sharp.
I was caught off guard for a moment, then quickly shook my head. “No way. He’s incredible.”
Vivian nodded. “These days, hardly anyone mentions where he came from, but when he was a kid, the two of us got plenty of side-eye.”
I watched Vivian talk about the past like it was nothing. For someone as reserved as her, hearing all that gossip behind her back must’ve been tough.
“Victoria, I can tell my son’s really fallen for you this time. Would you consider giving him a chance?” Vivian asked softly.
“Vivian, do you know about my situation?” I asked.
Vivian nodded. “Edward told me. It’s not a big deal to me.”
I was stunned. Was Vivian really not going to judge me for my past or what I could do?
Seeing how surprised I was, Vivian explained, “Edward’s ex-wife was actually a perfect match for him on paper – same background, same status. But there was just no spark between them.”
I remembered meeting Jane Leigh once. She was all business – decisive, sharp, a real powerhouse of a woman.
Isn’t everyone always talking about power couples? Does that mean two strong personalities just can’t make it work in love?
Vivian took a slow sip of her coffee. “Marriage is about two people building a life together. You don’t have to be total opposites, but honestly, when one person is strong, the other showing a bit of softness can make things a lot more stable.”
“Vivian, I’m just worried I won’t live up to what you guys expect,” I admitted.
“What are you so afraid of? Even if you marry Edward and end up splitting up, he won’t treat you badly. Are you really scared of divorce?” Vivian gave me a curious look. “If you’re not afraid of anything, then what’s left to worry about?”
“I’m not afraid, but isn’t love supposed to be about staying together forever? Or am I just naive?” I asked, feeling a little lost.
“If love comes, enjoy it. If it fades, just move on. Do what feels right – nobody says you have to stay married for life,” Vivian said. She really was as open-minded as Edward said.
“Vivian, honestly… I always thought you wouldn’t be okay with me and Edward,” I said, giving her an awkward smile.
“My son’s been all about his work these past few years. You’re the only woman he’s ever brought home to meet me, so I’m giving you my blessing,” Vivian said, sounding like she’d really thought it over.
“Thank you for trusting me, Vivian. I’ll think it over,” I replied. It felt like something inside me had finally loosened up. Maybe I really shouldn’t keep wavering.
“Just make sure you settle things with Ryan the right way,” Vivian said, her tone growing serious.
I said quietly, “After we broke up, I never even considered getting close to him again or starting anything up.”