Hearing Bianca’s words, the man’s eyes filled with intense anger.
“What did you say? How could someone like her marry into wealth?”
Bianca stated firmly, “She also insisted she never had any romantic relationship with you. She’s still a virgin.”
“Bullshit!” the man cursed angrily. “I have something on her. If she pushes me too far, I’ll expose everything. She won’t like that either.”
The man pursues Ashley because he believes she gained wealth and fame through an online drama.
He had recently faced financial problems, so he planned to ask Ashley for money. However, his attempts to contact her were unsuccessful.
Instead, he spent money on travel and lodging, wasting his resources in a useless pursuit, and his frustration grew.
As Bianca observed, her eyes narrowed slightly, a faint smile appearing on her lips. She casually traced the handle of her mug with her slender fingers and remarked, “You came to her looking for money, right? What if I offered to pay for any information you have about her? Wouldn’t that be easier for you?”
The man scowled deeply. “Why do you want that information?”
“I’m proposing a deal. My reasons are my own concern,” Bianca replied calmly. She maintained her meaningful smile as she continued, “I won’t reveal your identity as the source. You’re free to refuse this deal. But considering Ashley’s situation, she won’t come looking for you. Your chances of contacting her will fade once she marries this wealthy family. Causing trouble could lead to serious consequences, especially when a powerful family decides to deal with a commoner-it’s as easy as squashing an ant.”
She went on, her tone steady, “Even if you try to expose her online, she could pay someone to erase all traces. On the other hand, revealing what you know might make her take extreme measures to silence you… maybe even resorting to violence.”
Bianca’s sharp, discerning eyes locked onto the man, conveying her message confidently. Her words sent a chill down the man’s spine.
His past experience of being taken to the police station increased his fears.
Back in college, Ashley despised poverty and valued her image greatly. If she found out he had damaging information about her, she would do whatever it took to protect her reputation and ensure a successful marriage to a wealthy family.
That’s when he would be in trouble.
His only goal was to make money without getting caught up in Ashley’s affairs. As long as he could trade the information he had for cash, he didn’t care who bought it.
The man quickly made up his mind. He looked at Bianca and agreed, “Okay, give me an offer. If the price is right, I’ll sell it to you.”
After a long day at work, Bianca came home to find Dave hadn’t arrived yet.
She settled onto the couch and dialed Ashley’s number.
“Hey, Bianca. Why are you calling me?” Ashley snapped as soon as she answered.
Bianca couldn’t help but smile. “So, Ashley, I heard you’re marrying into the Reed family. Is that true?”
“Why does it matter to you? Are you jealous?” Ashley’s voice dripped with smug satisfaction. “Too bad. Unlike your man, mine isn’t a loser.”
“Ashley, Dad might be easy to fool, but not me.” Bianca leaned back, her voice calm and confident. “The Reed family is one of the top four in town. Joshua is their star. He’s not likely to choose someone who doesn’t match his wealth and status. No offense, but that’s not you.”
Ashley’s anger flared at Bianca’s comment. Clenching her fists, she retorted, “Just because you haven’t landed a rich guy doesn’t mean I can’t. Joshua loves me and wants to marry me. He’s even introducing me to his parents soon. And you? Have you ever been to a lavish party at a wealthy family’s house? Come along and see if I marry Joshua in grandeur.”
Ashley took the bait.
Bianca’s smile remained steady. “Sure, let’s see if your claims are true. If not, I’ll be sure to tell Dad about your little game.”
Ashley’s grin widened. Bianca had unknowingly given her the perfect setup to embarrass her, and Ashley wasn’t going to miss the chance. She was determined to humiliate Bianca completely.
“We’re all set then. Dinner’s this weekend at eight. I’ll text you the details. And make sure to bring your date to witness my victory.”
Bianca struggled to hide a smile after hanging up. Ashley was so gullible, falling for Bianca’s plan without hesitation. Bianca had a surprise prepared for Ashley, one she couldn’t wait to reveal, especially with Joshua and his parents watching.
Just then, the door swung open, and Dave walked in, looking as charming as ever, holding a small bag.
“Hey, there you are.” Bianca jumped off the couch, a bright smile on her face, and eyed the bag curiously. “What have you got there?”
Dave took her hand, guided her to the couch, and sat down. He pulled out a gorgeous strawberry cake from the bag, its mere sight making her mouth water.
“You must be tired after your company’s opening day. A bit of sweetness can boost those happy hormones. You’ll sleep like a baby tonight,” Dave said with a smile.
Bianca grinned back at him. “Look at you, becoming quite the smooth-talker.”
As a dessert enthusiast, Bianca eagerly grabbed a fork and savored a bite, enjoying the sweetness melting on her tongue.
“This is amazing. You have to try some,” she insisted, offering him a piece with her fork. Without a word, he accepted and finished it in one bite.
It was then that Bianca realized she had used that fork herself. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.
Casually, she reached for another piece. “Any plans this weekend? Want to come to a party with me?”
He looked at her, intrigued. “What kind of party?”
“It’s a dinner with the Reed family.”
“The Reed family?” Dave furrowed his brow slightly. “Do you know them well?”
Bianca quickly explains. “No, I don’t really know the Reeds personally. My sister Ashley mentioned that Joshua Reed wants her to meet his parents, and she’s asked me to go along. I’m not keen on going solo to these things. It feels a bit awkward. So, I was hoping you could join me…”
While the Reed family is among the top four wealthy families, they’re less influential than the Evans family, which ranks higher in status and power.
The Reed family has tried to collaborate with the Evans Group a few times but only managed to meet with some junior staff. Meanwhile, Dave remains a mystery, keeping his identity as a member of the prestigious Evans family hidden.
“Sure, I’ll come with you. These gatherings usually have a lot of young guys. What if someone tries to sweep my beautiful, kind, and clever fiancee off her feet?” Dave grinned playfully.