Chasing Light Through Darkness By Caleb Snow 9 Summary
Mason Donnelley unexpectedly arrives to offer Vivian a ride home, his familiar mischievous grin providing a comforting presence amid her turmoil. Despite the tension around them, including Yssa’s jealousy and Xavier’s desperate calls, Vivian chooses to ignore the chaos and accepts Mason’s support. She decides to avoid returning to her former marital home, instead opting to go to Mason’s parents’ place, signaling her intent to move on from her past life.
During the drive, Mason gently probes Vivian about her decision to proceed with the divorce, even humorously offering to be a “rebound husband” and father figure to her child. Vivian firmly rejects the idea, expressing her confidence in raising her child alone. Mason respects her choice but quietly promises his unwavering support, revealing his protective and caring nature beneath his playful exterior. Their conversation highlights the deep bond and loyalty that have endured since childhood.
Reflecting on their history, Vivian recalls how Mason had once pursued her sincerely before her marriage to Xavier, but her heart belonged elsewhere. Despite maintaining distance over the years, Mason’s presence now is a source of strength during her crisis. This quiet loyalty means a great deal to Vivian, providing her with a bittersweet comfort as she faces an uncertain future.
Three days later, Vivian returns to her company visibly pregnant and swiftly takes control by dismissing Xavier and appointing Mason as acting CEO. Although Mason may seem laid-back, his sharp business instincts make him well-suited for the role. Vivian immediately begins restructuring the leadership team, surprising those who had doubted her and spread rumors. One by one, her colleagues apologize for their misplaced trust in Yssa’s lies, acknowledging Vivian’s true authority and strength.
Vivian listens calmly, accepting their apologies and choosing to move forward without dwelling on past betrayals. Her composed response signals a new chapter, where she asserts her power and embraces the support of those who genuinely stand by her.
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Chapter 9
Before long, the car window slid down, unveiling Mason Donnelley’s irresistibly handsome face, framed by that familiar mischievous grin of his.
“Vivian,” he said with a laid-back tone, “sometimes, it’s the childhood friend who turns out to be the one you can count on, huh?” His voice was calm, almost teasing. “Hop in. I’ll drive you home.”
I didn’t hesitate for a second.
Supporting my swollen belly with one hand, I carefully settled into the passenger seat beside him.
Behind us, Yssa’s glare burned with jealousy, while Xavier’s voice carried through the air, shouting my name desperately.
I chose to block it all out, pretending not to hear a word.
“Let’s go to my parents’ place,” I murmured quietly to Mason as he pulled the car away from the curb. The villa we had shared as a married couple was the last place I wanted to be right now.
I lifted my phone to my ear and instructed my assistant, “List that house for resale. I want it off the market as soon as possible.”
The angry shouting faded behind us with distance. During the drive, Mason and I settled into a comfortable silence, broken only by the occasional glance he shot my way, as if checking in on me.
Finally, he broke the quiet. “Have you really made up your mind? You’re going through with the divorce?”
I gave a short, noncommittal hum.
He smirked, teasing. “Well then, how about considering me as your… rebound husband? Your kid’s going to need a dad, and I’m happy to fill the role. Think of me as the painless, plug-and-play father figure.”
His infuriatingly charming expression made me roll my eyes despite myself.
“You? No way,” I replied softly but firmly. “Who says my child needs a father? I’m perfectly capable of raising him on my own.”
That shut him up for a moment. When he looked back at me, his eyes had softened, filled with a mix of admiration and protectiveness.
“Fair enough,” he said gently. “I’ll respect whatever you decide. After all, we are childhood friends. But if you ever need anything, don’t hesitate—just say the word.”
He paused, then added with a crooked smile, “Besides, you know me. I’m staunchly against marriage. Kids aren’t on my horizon this lifetime. But if you don’t mind, maybe someday I could be the godfather to the little one you’re carrying.”
I turned to the window, fighting back a small smile as a familiar bittersweet ache settled in my chest.
“We’ll talk about that later,” I whispered.
Because that’s exactly who Mason is. He always shows up quietly when I’m at my lowest, wearing that carefree grin and tossing out words that sound like jokes, but beneath it all, I know how much he truly cares.
As the city lights blurred past, memories surfaced—how before my wedding, Mason had pursued me with a sincerity that burned bright and true.
But back then, my heart belonged solely to Xavier; there was no room for anyone else.
I married, endured the years, and now I carried a child.
Throughout it all, Mason had maintained a respectful distance. Yet now, in my moment of crisis, a single call summoned him to my side in the dead of night.
For that kind of unwavering loyalty, I could only be deeply grateful.
Three days later, I returned to the company, my pregnancy unmistakably visible.
This time, I didn’t hesitate.
Without delay, I announced Xavier’s dismissal and appointed Mason Donnelley as the acting CEO.
Though my childhood friend might come across as lazy at first glance, his investor instincts were razor-sharp.
He was more than qualified for the job.
When I entered the group’s offices, I immediately began restructuring the leadership team, leaving those who had spoken against me earlier utterly speechless.
One by one, they came to my office to offer apologies.
“Miss Vivian, we’re so sorry. We were foolish to believe Yssa’s rumors!” one admitted, words spilling out in a rush.
“Yeah, she made it all sound so detailed and convincing. We really thought it was true,” another added sheepishly.
“Who would have thought Mr. Hennessey, who seemed so gentlemanly, could be such a monster in disguise!” a third muttered.
“We apologize, Ma’am! We now see you’re the real boss here. We were blind,” said the last one, sincere and embarrassed.
I listened quietly, my face unreadable.
Then, with a small nod, I said, “What’s done is done. It’s all behind us now. Let’s not bring it up again.”
Conclusion
This chapter delicately captures Vivian’s journey through betrayal, resilience, and the rediscovery of steadfast friendship. Amidst the turmoil of her crumbling marriage and the painful shadows cast by false rumors, Mason’s unwavering support emerges as a beacon of hope and comfort. Their shared history and his gentle presence offer Vivian a rare solace, reminding her that even in the darkest times, genuine care and loyalty can shine through with quiet strength.
As Vivian reclaims control over her life and career, the chapter underscores themes of empowerment and renewal. Her decisive actions to restructure the company and dismiss those who doubted her reflect a newfound confidence and clarity. The apologies she receives symbolize not only the clearing of misunderstandings but also the closing of a painful chapter, paving the way for a future defined by honesty, self-assurance, and the enduring bonds of true friendship.
What to Expect in Next Chapter?
The next chapter promises to delve deeper into the shifting dynamics within Vivian’s world as she takes control of her company with Mason stepping into the spotlight as acting CEO. Tensions are bound to rise as those who once doubted her scramble to make amends, but the scars of betrayal and rumor will not vanish so easily. Vivian’s quiet strength and strategic moves will be tested as she navigates the treacherous waters of corporate power and personal upheaval.
Meanwhile, the complex relationship between Vivian and Mason is poised to evolve in unexpected ways. Their shared history and Mason’s unwavering support hint at a bond that could either offer solace or complicate matters further, especially with the impending arrival of Vivian’s child. Emotional undercurrents simmer beneath their interactions, leaving readers eager to see how trust, loyalty, and perhaps unspoken feelings will influence the choices they make moving forward. The next chapter will surely reveal more about the true nature of their connection and the challenges that lie ahead.

Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.