Divorced CEO's Forgotten Wife Strikes Back (Riley and Bryce) novel Chapter 47

**TITLE: Dreams Refuse Gravity**

**Chapter 47: A Dead Person Isn’t Worth as a Living One**

“Mr. Brunson, I’ll admit it—I got lucky and found myself in the role of co-pilot,” Bella shot back, her tone sharp and defiant.

“But let’s be honest here, not every woman could achieve that. Even if they were handed the same chance, many wouldn’t be able to step up as co-pilots,” she added, her eyes narrowing slightly as she met Vince’s gaze.

Vince leaned back in his chair, a mocking smile playing on his lips. “So, is being a co-pilot really something to brag about? In the military camps, there are plenty of women capable of flying planes.”

He paused for effect, letting his words hang in the air like a heavy fog. “Before I crossed paths with you, Ms. Sinclair, I had the impression you were an independent woman. But now it seems you’re just flaunting your skills because you can handle a plane!”

Vince had witnessed greatness in others, individuals who had soared through the skies in fighter jets, navigating through thick clouds and a barrage of gunfire. He thought of one particular pilot, a woman whose courage was unmatched, driven by the noble cause of saving civilians and comrades alike. She would charge into danger without a second thought, always prepared to sacrifice her own life for the greater good. Just the memory of Riley ignited a soft, tender warmth in Vince’s heart, a stark contrast to the tension in the room.

Bella’s complexion shifted dramatically; her face flushed crimson before quickly draining of color, leaving her looking almost ghostly.

Vince’s words had struck her like a sharp slap, leaving her momentarily speechless, the air thick with an awkward silence that enveloped the gathering.

Fortunately, Bryce Murphy, eager to diffuse the escalating tension, stepped in with a bright smile. “Hey, Mr. Brunson. I’m Bryce Murphy from Murphy Tech. It’s truly a pleasure to finally meet you today,” he said, extending a hand in a gesture of goodwill.

Nathan, sensing the need to redirect the conversation, quickly added, “Mr. Brunson, since you’ve just returned to the country, you may not be aware of this, but Bryce is a rising star in the tech industry. His company has skyrocketed from a small startup to a publicly-listed firm in just three years.”

“I’m looking forward to more opportunities for us to connect and perhaps collaborate in the future,” Bryce chimed in, his enthusiasm palpable.

“Mr. Murphy, you’re young and talented. I have no doubt there will be ample chances for you to work alongside Mr. Brunson,” Nathan interjected, a hint of pride in his voice. After all, his niece’s relationship with Bryce could potentially benefit the Sinclair family as well.

“Young and gifted?” Vince scoffed, a derisive laugh escaping his lips. “Mr. Sinclair, are you joking? You’re telling me that a man who cheated on his wife during their marriage is considered talented?”

In an instant, the atmosphere shifted dramatically. All eyes turned towards Bella and Bryce, the weight of unspoken judgments hanging heavily in the air.

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