Called Off the Wedding, Left Him Bankrupt novel Chapter 69

Benedict clearly wanted to assert his status in front of everyone at the table.

In the past, Cynthia would have played along, giving him the respect he craved when others were watching.

But that was before he'd cheated—before he'd let his attention stray from their marriage.

Back then, she'd been gentle with him, careful not to let the harsh burn of whiskey upset his stomach. She'd always made sure to look after him.

Now…

He expected that kind of care from her again?

Not a chance.

Cynthia glanced sideways at him, then looked away, unmoved.

Just then, a waiter appeared and quietly placed a bowl of soup in front of Benedict, attentive and discreet.

Benedict's chest rose and fell as he struggled to contain his irritation under the watchful eyes of the other men.

Today was important.

Everyone at this table was a key client or partner of VistaSphere Group. He couldn't let Cynthia's coldness make him lose face in front of these people.

As dinner drew to a close, Benedict was well on his way to being drunk.

He boasted to Dominic about VistaSphere Group's bright future, declaring that if Dominic didn't work with them, he'd regret it. His arrogance was in full display, amplified by the alcohol.

Dominic had had just as much to drink, but he remained composed, sitting tall and unruffled, his expression calm and clear-eyed. It was impossible to tell how much he'd had.

She let her hand fall back into her lap.

She still had a part to play—there were eight days left, and she couldn't afford to let anyone suspect a thing, least of all Benedict.

Jenny, the only one at the table who truly understood the rift between Benedict and Cynthia, picked up on the tension. As a woman, she could see the quiet endurance in Cynthia's eyes.

Sensing the moment, Jenny stood up and brought the evening to a close.

"It's been a real pleasure dining with all of you tonight. I especially want to thank Mr. Holloway for joining us despite his busy schedule," she said. "Our project is back on track thanks to Mr. Holloway, and I believe this partnership is just the beginning. Here's to more successful ventures together—I'd like to toast Mr. Holloway, and all of you."

Everyone lifted their glasses in response, Dominic included.

Benedict, meanwhile, slouched back in his chair, one arm draped lazily over the back of Cynthia's seat, looking every bit the picture of careless arrogance.