The Transactional Marriage That Imploded novel Chapter 183

Bianca's eyes widened in utter shock, while Cillian and Xanthe stared in pure disbelief.

They scrutinized the little girl's face, searching for answers.

Looking down at the toddler who bore a striking resemblance to her, Bianca asked incredulously, "Sweetheart, are you lost?"

Aveline shook her head. "Nope, you're my mommy. Daddy said you would come back, and he didn't lie!"

The door of the Phantom swung open, and Mathis stepped out.

After more than a year apart, his features had sharpened. The face that had once utterly captivated Bianca seemed even more strikingly handsome now.

A visceral, bone-deep hatred surged through Bianca. The sudden softness in her eyes morphed instantly into sheer venom.

Mathis met her gaze, his heart sinking. A year of separation had done absolutely nothing to erase the burning loathing she harbored for him.

She must have had that exact same look in her eyes when she stabbed me, he thought bleakly.

Keeping his voice gentle, he said, "Her name is Aveline. Can we talk?"

Brimming with unanswered questions about the little girl, Bianca agreed.

"Cillian, you can head back first."

Cillian cast a piercing glare at Mathis. The man is terrifyingly resourceful if he managed to save a child we all thought was miscarried.

"Get some rest tonight," Cillian told her before leaving.

Xanthe, who was still living in Bianca's condo, accompanied them upstairs.

Mathis leaned down to pick up Aveline, but she reached out and cried, "Mommy, hug!"

A lump formed in Bianca's throat, and tears pricked her eyes.

"Okay."

Aveline pressed her soft cheek against Bianca's, refusing to let go.

Mathis noticed how the ice in Bianca's eyes melted the second she held the child.

A fragile sliver of hope flared in his chest.

Once inside, Xanthe coaxed, "Hey there, Aveline, want to come into my room? Your mom and dad need to talk."

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