The Million-Dollar Heart novel Chapter 245

Darren quickly took a step back, maintaining a distance of roughly eight yards from Vivienne, as if he were avoiding the plague.

After noticing everyone's puzzled looks, he coughed awkwardly. "It's just… Mom, I'm a big star now. There are going to be so many people at the gemstone auction. What if someone recognizes me?"

He glanced at Vivienne. "Besides, she doesn't need me to look after her. If anything, she should be looking after me."

He had barely made it out of that hellhole, swearing to himself that he would never get close to Vivienne again if they ever met. He swore to himself to keep at least a ten-yard distance between himself and her.

But damn it! His long-lost cousin was none other than Vivienne. This wasn't a happy reunion; it was a death sentence!

"A big star, my ass!" Melissa retorted. "Your older cousin, Kala, is an award-winning actress, and she still walks around town every day. How come she doesn't have as many issues as you do?"

"That's because she's chased by fans all day." Darren rolled his eyes. "Remember when she got trapped in a men's restroom by a bunch of fans and had to be rescued by the police? That even made the news."

"So, are you going or not?" Melissa questioned him, not wanting to waste time arguing with him.

"Can I not?" Darren looked at Vivienne fearfully.

"If you don't want to go, then don't." Vivienne's tone was indifferent. It was actually a bit kind.

Darren shivered and quickly changed his attitude. "No, I'll go. I like gemstones too."

Melissa and Ashley exchanged a puzzled glance, not quite understanding Darren's odd behavior, but they didn't push further.

Ashley was happy to have her brother come along. He could help carry her bags.

However, they had two cars for the nine of them. Mila, Calista, Paula, and her son were in one car, then Carl insisted on squeezing into their car to act as their driver.

That left Vivienne, Darren, Ronald, and Ashley in Ronald's car. When Darren saw Ronald's new car, he was eager to drive it.

The drive from the Brooks Mansion to the River Village was about two hours.

They had been on the road for less than half an hour when Ashley turned pale from Darren's terrible driving skills. She felt like she was about to vomit.

"Darren, stop the car. I feel sick." Ashley cried out.

But Darren, who loved to show off despite his lack of skill, was infuriated when the other driver, Carl, overtook them and gave him a disdainful look. He hit the gas pedal hard, chasing after Carl recklessly. The car almost spun out of control when he took a sharp turn.

Even Vivienne couldn't stand it any longer. Feeling nauseous, she snapped. "Stop the car and get out. I'll drive!"

"No way!" Darren was hell-bent on catching up with Carl.

"Are you getting out or not?" Vivienne's voice was menacing. She spoke like she was ready to kill.

Darren felt a chill run down his spine, and his voice softened into a whimper. "Okay."

Once he pulled over, Ashley was the first one to jump out. She breathed in the fresh air before glaring hatefully at Darren. "I swear I'll never get in a car with you behind the wheel again!"

Feeling guilty, Darren scratched his nose.

Vivienne had already pulled open the driver's door, yanking him out and shoving him into the back seat before taking the wheel herself.