My Flash Romance With the Richest Mogul novel Chapter 2006

Escape was paramount, as was ensuring her own safety. Vivian didn't know if Manfred had woken up yet. The thought of him trapped under the bed, possibly gasping for air, gnawed at her.

She had no idea how long she'd been out. She could only pray he was safe and that he would find her. But would Manfred realize Sterling was behind her disappearance?

As her mind raced, the door suddenly opened.

"Has she woken up yet?"

"No, Mr. Bowman. I've been watching her this whole time, and she hasn't stirred."

Sterling narrowed his eyes. "She should be awake by now."

The two maids kept their heads down, unsure of how to respond. They had no way of knowing exactly when she would wake up.

Sterling loomed over the bed, scrutinizing Vivian.

Pretending to be asleep might fool the maids, but Sterling wouldn't be so easily deceived. Without hesitation, Vivian opened her eyes.

Their gazes met instantly.

A flicker of amusement lit Sterling's eyes. "Awake?"

Vivian sat up. Just one look at him made her skin crawl.

"From now on, you will stay here as my mistress," Sterling declared. He wasted no time and openly bestowed Vivian with a title.

The two maids kneeling beside the bed gasped, their expressions full of disbelief. None had expected such an elevation in status for a woman of Vivian's origins.

A beauty acquired from the black market like her—a lowborn—had no right to stand at Sterling's side. Yet, here she was, receiving what many in the mansion would only dream of.

Vivian coldly said, "I belong to Manfred."

Vivian had no weapon on her. If she had a dagger, she would have taken her chance to hold Sterling hostage and flee Bowman Residence.

Sterling didn't flinch at her rejection. Instead, he let out a hearty laugh.