Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism novel Chapter 194

The waiters were gossiping, spreading the news that there were trucks full of roses outside.

Word travelled fast, and soon enough, folks from Vivian's crew were also running out to take a look.

They had thought it might be some kind of marriage proposal.

But to their surprise, they saw signs on the trucks saying, "Happy Birthday Grace" and stuff like that.

"Oh man ... How much do you think all these roses cost?"

"Do you think it's from Grace's secret admirer?"

"Such extravagance, using the most expensive rose perfume. It must have cost quite a bit."

"These roses are just for show. They can't be used for anything else. They might wither overnight. What a waste. But when you have money, you can be whimsical. Just enjoy the momentary pleasure, and the money spent is worth it."

"Could it be the rumoured relationship between Grace and that wealthy businessman from Heokrish? The one in real estate?"

"It could be ... "

Whispers and gossip from nearby totally stole the spotlight from Vivian, the birthday star.

She felt a bit annoyed and glanced at Declan beside her.

Declan's gaze was also fixed on the roses inside the truck, his expression seeming a bit lost.

He hadn't expected there would eventually be another guy beside Grace ...

Vivian nudged Declan with her elbow, a frown on her face. Only then did Declan react, "What's wrong?"

Vivian asked, "Seriously? You're asking me what's wrong? It's my birthday, and you didn't even get me anything?"

Declan responded, "Isn't this birthday party enough?"

She asked, "Enough? Enough for what?"

He responded, "Vivian, we've been married for so long. What's the point of all this? Life's about living it for ourselves, not for anyone else. And look around. Who here's living better than you?"

This statement might have been comforting to Vivian before.

But clearly, it wasn't enough now.

Among these dancers, the ones making a name for themselves were already top-notch. And for someone like Vivian, who could marry into wealth, they were even rarer.

So yeah, Vivian has been shining brightly in the circle these years.

But now that she's getting older, her relationship with Declan isn't like it used to be. After the passion faded and she saw her arch-rival Grace being pursued by wealthy men again and being showered with rose perfume, she couldn't help but feel envious. It was only natural for a woman, right?

Vivian was dissatisfied with Declan, but she also knew when to hold back. She lowered her voice and said, "Looks like you're not that into me anymore! Hmph!"

With that, Vivian turned and walked into the hotel, leaving Declan alone outside.

Before long, everyone else followed suit and made their way into the hotel.