The Transactional Marriage That Imploded novel Chapter 29

The Elysian Club was a highly exclusive, members-only venue that catered strictly to the ultra-elite. Hearing the name, the engineering team instantly realized just how heavily Mathis was backing this unqualified woman.

Everyone silently agreed to bury any doubts or contempt they had for her. After all, her connections were untouchable.

Bianca didn't say a word. She was too busy trying to figure out how to snap a photo without Mathis noticing.

Thrilled by the prospect of a free luxury dinner, the team happily packed up their things, showering Cynthia and Mathis with compliments and thanks.

"Mr. Calder," Mathis said, turning to Cillian. "Care to join us?"

He didn't even glance at Bianca.

Not wanting Bianca to endure any more of their sickening display, Cillian politely declined. "No, thank you. Enjoy your evening, Mr. Jagger. Bianca and I have other business to discuss."

Cillian gently grabbed Bianca's arm and led her out with quick, purposeful strides.

Once they were in the elevator, Cillian looked at her. "If Mathis shows up again tomorrow to flaunt his affair, how are you going to handle it?"

"I don't care," Bianca shrugged. "They can show off all they want. I'm just here to do my job. Besides, Mathis can't possibly have that much free time."

She remembered when he was still battling cancer, he was constantly working late. Spending an entire afternoon sitting around Progenix was highly abnormal for him.

Cillian thought about it and agreed. "With the sheer number of industries Mathis has his hands in, he has to be swamped."

Cillian took her out for dinner.

Over their meal, he brought up an opportunity. "Are you interested in heading down to Austin City to help establish our new branch? We're starting the prep work soon."

Bianca nodded instantly. "Yes. When do I leave?"

The chance to get out from under Mathis's thumb before she started showing was exactly what she needed.

Hector's clear, professional voice came through the line. "The case should be officially filed within the week. After that, we're required to go through a pre-trial mediation phase within thirty days. If mediation fails, the actual trial will take place a month after that.

"You'll have to appear in person for the trial. I'll give you plenty of notice beforehand. My team is also working on gathering concrete evidence of your husband's infidelity. The more evidence we have, the higher the chance the judge grants the divorce on the first attempt. But your husband seems to be actively blocking us. We've sent several investigators, and they've all come up empty."

Bianca listened calmly, analyzing the situation. "He probably thinks I'm trying to blindside him and take half his company. He actually gave me an unlimited credit card and told me to stay quiet."

Hector paused for a few seconds. "In that case, let me reach out to your husband tomorrow and see if he's willing to negotiate an amicable settlement."

"Thank you, Mr. Goodwin," Bianca said. "I'll text you his direct line."

"Perfect."

The next morning, Bianca went to Progenix to continue the technical integration. Not long after she arrived, Cynthia strolled in, once again clinging to Mathis's arm.

Right behind them was Quincy, Mathis's executive assistant, carrying stacks of documents and a tablet. It looked like Mathis was planning to work out of Progenix today.