Divorced CEO's Forgotten Wife Strikes Back (Riley and Bryce) novel Chapter 54

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

**Chapter 54: 1.53 Million Dollars**

As Riley approached the conclusion of her extensive research, she found herself engulfed in a profound sense of despair, a heavy shroud that had settled over her life following the unexpected loss of her parents. It was only after her marriage that she managed to gather her fragmented thoughts, piece together the remnants of her project, and secure that elusive patent.

This fool doesn’t even realize that I was planning to hand that patent over to Murphy Tech.

Had I remained and continued my work on those drones there, that patent would have been their ticket to success.

But now…

“What if I say no?” Riley’s voice rang out, her gaze unwavering as it bore into Bryce’s.

Bryce let out a derisive snort, his confidence radiating off him like heat from a flame. “Then I’ll take you to court. I know you’re considering giving that patent to your buddy at Blue Sky Tech, but let’s be clear: it’s marital property. If you’re willing to drag your friend’s company into chaos, be my guest.”

Disappointment clouded Riley’s expression, her heart sinking further. “I once believed you had some shred of honor left in you, but look at you now, resorting to these underhanded tactics.”

“This is all about the company, Riley. Want that divorce? Then you need to hand over that drone patent to Murphy Tech!” Bryce shot back, his voice laced with a desperation that belied his bravado.

His company was teetering on the brink, and this patent could be the lifeline it so desperately needed.

“For the company? Fine. Let’s do this: announce our divorce in a public press conference, meet me at the courthouse to make it official, and then the patent is yours,” Riley countered, her tone as frigid as the Arctic.

Bryce blinked, taken aback. “Just like that?”

“Just like that,” she affirmed, her resolve unyielding.

“Alright then. Press conference in three days.” His eyes bore into hers, a challenge simmering beneath the surface. “You better not back out.”

Riley let out a hollow laugh, the sound echoing in the tense air.

This is the man I fell for. I gave him everything—every piece of my heart.

And here he stands, transforming our divorce into a mere business transaction, squeezing me for one last payout.

“Bryce, I’ve never regretted anything in my life until now! I truly regret marrying you!” she spat, her voice thick with emotion.

“You’re actually going to hand over that patent to Bryce?” Lara exclaimed, her voice tinged with disbelief after hearing the terms of their agreement.

“If he wants that patent, he can have it. But let’s see if he’s capable of making it work. What’s mine isn’t so easily managed,” Riley retorted, a sneer curling her lips.

As Lara processed this, she sensed her friend had a plan brewing beneath the surface. She relaxed slightly. “And what about you? What’s Bryce willing to give up in return?”

“1.53 million dollars,” Riley stated, her voice steady.

That was the figure she had thrown at him before storming out of the villa.

Lara’s eyes widened in shock. “Seriously? Just 1.53 million? You practically helped this man take his company public! Logically, he should be splitting everything 50-50 with you.”

Most of his real estate is mortgaged to the bank, and Murphy Tech is in dire financial straits. Even if I asked for more, he wouldn’t be able to manage it. Besides, I want this divorce wrapped up swiftly. I don’t want to be tethered to him any longer, Riley explained, her thoughts racing.