Divorced CEO's Forgotten Wife Strikes Back (Riley and Bryce) novel Chapter 36

**TITLE: Dreams Refuse Gravity by Leo Arden Knox**
**Chapter 36: It Had All Been Exposed**

“Ha! You think you won’t regret this? And just what do you plan to do about it?” Claire’s voice dripped with scorn as she looked at Riley, her eyes glinting with malice. Then, turning her attention to the two men beside her, she barked, “Get her clothes off already!”

The atmosphere in the grand banquet hall was thick with tension. As the crowd bore witness to the impending humiliation of Riley, a wave of discomfort washed over many guests. Some couldn’t bear the sight and instinctively shut their eyes, hoping to block out the horror unfolding before them.

In the blink of an eye, however, the thug who had reached for Riley was sent sprawling to the ground, utterly bewildered. The audience was left in a state of disbelief, their gasps echoing through the hall. Even Amanda and Claire, who had retreated to a private corner, were rendered speechless.

“What are you waiting for? Get a grip on her! She’s been drugged with aphrodisiac smoke—she’s supposed to be weak!” Claire’s voice rose in desperation, laced with panic as she urged her accomplice to act.

Finally, the second thug seemed to shake off his stupor, but it was too late.

The man who had been knocked down struggled to regain his footing, pain etched across his face as he glared at Riley, his fury palpable.

Both muscular men rushed at Riley, their movements a blur of aggression.

Thud! Thud! Thud!

The sound of fists colliding with flesh reverberated through the room like a dark symphony.

Riley’s movements were a study in precision and grace, each strike purposeful and devoid of wasted energy. Her training had honed her into a formidable opponent, and every punch she delivered was calculated to incapacitate her attackers. Yet, the evening gown she wore added an unexpected elegance to the chaos; the fabric billowed and swirled around her, transforming the fight into a mesmerizing dance.

In mere moments, both men lay groaning on the ground, defeated. Riley stood tall above them, her long hair cascading like a dark waterfall, catching the light in a way that made her look almost ethereal. In that moment, she resembled a finely honed weapon, ready to strike.

The usual softness in her gaze had been replaced with a fierce intensity that left spectators in awe.

Bryce’s eyes widened, filled with a mix of shock, confusion, and sheer amazement. He had always known that Riley had a military background and could handle herself in a fight, but he had never truly grasped the extent of her capabilities. Watching her take down two burly men right in front of a crowd was a revelation.

Unlike the others, Sebastian observed the massive screen with a knowing smirk. This woman was no ordinary fighter; she was the mastermind behind the entire spectacle.

He couldn’t help but admire her resilience. If Riley could handle this level of chaos, then she certainly deserved that Eagle Strike captain badge.

“Call off the search for her. She’s perfectly capable of taking care of herself,” he declared, a sly smile creeping onto his face.

His secretary, Felix, caught the glimmer in his boss’s eyes and knew exactly what it meant—Mr. Torres was developing feelings for Ms. Anderson.

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