Called Off the Wedding, Left Him Bankrupt novel Chapter 131

The sharp-eyed professionals surrounding Dominic kept their expressions neutral, but they watched his mood closely. When they saw a faint, satisfied smile curl at his lips, they immediately understood the signal. Their glances toward Cynthia turned subtly sycophantic, each of them quick to align themselves with whoever seemed to have Dominic's favor.

Cynthia noticed the sudden shift in their attitudes, confusion flickering in her eyes.

Dominic's smile lingered as he leaned in, dropping his voice so only she could hear, "Miss Tremaine, you're bold enough to offer, but in broad daylight? I wouldn't dare accept."

Her brow furrowed, the confusion in her gaze deepening.

Dominic chuckled quietly, prompting a ripple of laughter from those nearby.

Noticing Cynthia's bewilderment, one of the men teased, "Miss Tremaine, maybe it's better to deliver yourself in the evening, rather than now."

Cynthia froze, her cheeks instantly burning red as she stammered, "No, that's not what I meant at all—"

She tried to focus on the reason she'd come here today, recalling the confidence she'd felt walking through the door. But seeing Dominic surrounded by finance world hotshots—faces she recognized from business news interviews—had rattled her more than she'd care to admit. Her nerves tangled her tongue, and she'd misspoken.

Dominic looked at her, clearly amused, "Then what did you mean?"

Cynthia pressed her lips together, ready to explain, but before she could get the words out, he interrupted her again.

"Whatever you meant, let's discuss it privately, all right?" His eyes flicked around the bustling office, clearly indicating, "There are too many people here."

Cynthia noticed the curious, knowing looks from the crowd and realization dawned—Dominic was doing this on purpose.

"You—"

Dominic only smiled, giving the gift bag in his hand a casual swing. "I'll accept the present, but I'll wait until tonight to open it."

Cynthia could only grit her teeth in frustration, wishing she could silence him for good.

"Miss, are you alright?"

She'd been standing there for so long that the front desk receptionist gave her a concerned glance.

Cynthia drew a deep breath, forcing herself to gather up the pieces of her broken confidence and put on a smile. "I'm fine."

She couldn't just give up and leave.

No matter what, she had to land a position at Holloway Enterprises.

She couldn't let her sister's plans fall apart.

The receptionist kept her polite smile, though her eyes betrayed a touch of anxiety. She hesitated; after all, Mr. Holloway hadn't left any instructions, and from their interaction, it seemed as if he and Cynthia might know each other. The receptionist wasn't sure what to do with her.