Divorced CEO's Forgotten Wife Strikes Back (Riley and Bryce) novel Chapter 22

**TITLE: Dreams Refuse Gravity by Leo Arden Knox 22**

It was hardly a significant issue. There was no point in ruffling Sebastian’s feathers over something so inconsequential.

As Riley strolled through the bustling expo, she couldn’t help but marvel at Sebastian’s profound grasp of aerospace concepts. His expertise was evident, far exceeding that of an average enthusiast.

He navigated through complex technical jargon with the ease of someone who had spent years immersed in the field, effortlessly breaking down intricate principles that lay behind the various aerospace marvels displayed around them.

Their conversation flowed seamlessly, touching on everything from planes to drones, and even straying into discussions about obscure books that had long since fallen out of favor.

Each topic she introduced was met with his enthusiastic engagement, and she found herself inspired by the ideas that blossomed from their exchange. It was a refreshing dialogue, one that sparked her imagination in ways she hadn’t anticipated.

However, their lively discussion was abruptly interrupted when his assistant appeared, urgently reminding Sebastian of a scheduled meeting with government officials.

After he departed, Riley contemplated continuing her exploration of the exhibits, eager to absorb more knowledge. But just as she turned, she caught sight of Bryce making his way toward her, flanked by his friends.

A frown creased her brow, and she instinctively attempted to slip past them unnoticed, hoping to avoid any confrontation.

But luck was not on her side; Kieran spotted her first and sauntered over with a swagger that reeked of arrogance.

“Riley! Fancy seeing you at the aerospace exhibition. Do you even understand what’s going on here?” he sneered, his tone dripping with condescension.

The others trailed behind him, their faces twisted into smug expressions, clearly relishing the opportunity to ridicule her.

Riley, refusing to show any sign of weakness, shot back with a cool demeanor, “What’s the matter? Am I not allowed to be here just because I’m not an expert? Is there some sort of secret entry requirement that I missed? Tell me, Mr. Foster, do you possess any licenses related to aerospace?”

For a fleeting moment, Kieran’s expression faltered before he burst into a mocking laugh, clearly taken aback by her boldness.

“Look at you, getting all feisty! What’s your game? You think showing up to this aerospace exhibition will catch Bryce’s eye, just like Bella? You’re only embarrassing yourself!”

His friends erupted into laughter, their derisive jeers echoing around her, each one a dagger aimed at her confidence.

Unperturbed, Riley maintained her composure and replied, “So Bella can fly a plane. That’s impressive, but hardly groundbreaking.”

Kieran’s laughter grew louder, almost hysterical. “Riley, you really think you can talk down flying a plane? Do you honestly believe it’s as simple as driving a tractor?”

“Yeah, Riley, give it a rest. You’re just making a fool of yourself trying to compete with Bella,” one of Bryce’s friends chimed in, a smirk plastered on his face.

Lara exhaled, her relief evident. “Fantastic! Get here as soon as you can.”

With that, Lara sent her the location of the flight show, detailing it was set in a spacious area behind the exhibition hall.

As Riley arrived at the airfield, she was greeted by a lineup of planes resting on the tarmac, their sleek forms glinting in the sunlight.

Lara spotted her and rushed over, her expression brightening. “Hey, why don’t you climb into the cockpit and get a feel for it before the show?”

“Sounds good to me,” Riley replied, her excitement bubbling just beneath the surface.

However, just as she was about to ascend the steps to the plane, Bryce came sprinting toward her, grabbing her arm with an urgency that startled her.

“Riley, what do you think you’re doing? You can’t just hop into a plane like that without preparation!” he exclaimed, his voice laced with concern.

Riley stared at him, a mix of exasperation and amusement washing over her. “I think I can manage, Bryce. I’ve got this.”

With that, she shook off his grip, determined to prove herself in a world where she had every right to belong.