The Transactional Marriage That Imploded novel Chapter 126

Harlowe sighed. "How did she get so cautious?"

"It's Walter Adler who's cautious," Neville replied. "As long as Cynthia keeps Mathis wrapped around her finger, Bianca poses zero threat. Mathis already promised Cynthia that Bianca would never be allowed to make their marriage public."

Harlowe perked up. "Mathis really thinks of everything for Cynthia."

Back in the day, Neville had never been that considerate of her, which was why the entire elite circle knew about her scandalous rise to power.

But their future son-in-law couldn't bear to let his daughter suffer even the slightest blemish on her reputation.

...

Milo drove over to pick up Bianca and Xanthe for lunch at his family's estate.

The plan was to spend the afternoon playing his company's latest games and watch a performance in the evening.

True to Milo's nature, everything was perfectly organized.

Thankfully, the wealthy circles in Austin City were fairly casual about dress codes, so there was no pressure for Bianca and the others to wear formal attire.

She stuck to her usual t-shirt, shorts, and a high ponytail, her long, flawless legs leaving him entirely captivated.

No wonder Mathis was so reluctant to divorce her. A woman like that simply standing there was a total test of any man's self-restraint.

Milo's Adam's apple bobbed. "No wonder you like Austin City. Your style fits right in."

Bianca smiled. "It's actually a bit too hot for me here. If I didn't have to be, I'd still prefer Kingsbridge City."

She purposely didn't mention her impending divorce, wanting to avoid giving him any false hope.

Milo didn't seem to care that she was still legally married. It was as if he'd gladly play the role of her secret lover if she just gave the word.

Bianca skillfully steered the conversation, keeping the focus entirely on food, fun, and entertainment, completely shutting down any romantic undertones.

Milo made the introductions, and Bianca and Xanthe politely said their hellos.

Ingrid crossed her arms, looking Bianca up and down with a snobby expression. "Milo, she's just a pretty face. Is she really worth all this fuss?"

Milo's expression darkened. "Ingrid, you're a woman too. Is that really how you talk to people?"

A look of annoyance crossed Ingrid's face. "Got it. You're always making a big deal out of nothing."

With that, she turned on her designer heels and strutted gracefully into the house, leaving them with a view of her perfect posture.

Milo turned to Bianca apologetically. "I'm so sorry. My sister has been spoiled rotten by our parents since we were kids. She's not exactly down-to-earth like me."

Bianca brushed it off effortlessly. "You're my friend. She's not. I don't care what strangers think of me."

Hearing that, a look of profound disappointment flashed across Milo's face.