Chapter 9

Just as Filip’s heart sank, Jonathan suddenly said, “Yates? Yates Construction?”

Filip felt a surge of excitement. He knew Jonathan! “Yes,” Filip said. “My grandfather always calls you a business genius. He said a partnership between the Yates and Bennett families on the Paradise Resort project would be a huge honor.”

Filip had been searching for a way to broach the project, and this was the perfect opening. He knew Jonathan wouldn't agree immediately—a multi-billion dollar project wasn't something settled in a few words. But if he could get Jonathan to recall Yates Construction, it might give them an edge later.

Jonathan swirled his drink, leaning back as if enthroned. His voice, though cool, dripped with sarcasm. “The Paradise Resort project can partner with anyone… except Yates Construction.”

Gasps rippled through the crowd. They had coveted Paradise Resort, and Jonathan's mention of Yates Construction had initially sparked envy. That envy quickly turned to schadenfreude as they wondered what the Yates family had done to offend him.

Filip was stunned. The Yates and Bennett families had no prior connection, and he’d never met Jonathan. What had caused this harsh reaction? Tension gripped Filip, and he cautiously asked, “Mr. Bennett, may I ask what the Yates family did to offend you?”

Jonathan stood abruptly, his gaze darting between Filip and Cynthia. He was cold and distant, but something flickered in his voice. “You should ask Mrs. Yates about that.”

All eyes turned to Cynthia. She was stunning—the most beautiful woman in the room. Many had noticed her upon arrival, like a fairy from a mist-shrouded tale. Her light dress accentuated her elegance, and her natural beauty was captivating, even with minimal makeup.

Cynthia was caught off guard.

Filip turned to her, his expression icy and accusatory. "Cynthia, what's going on here?" The question felt like a blow. How does Cynthia know Jonathan, and how has she upset him? Is there something more between them?

Cynthia composed herself before stepping forward with a smile. “Three years ago, I accidentally bumped into your luxury car. I didn’t know who you were, so I left $300 and left. I didn’t expect you to hold a grudge, Mr. Bennett.”

Cynthia knew she was lying. She couldn't admit their three-year affair and subsequent breakup.

The crowd showed understanding, while Filip felt a mix of relief and confusion. He'd been anxious, fearing a scandal between Cynthia and Jonathan.

With an edge to his voice, Filip scolded Cynthia. “Mr. Bennett’s car must have cost a fortune. Three hundred dollars isn't a mistake; it's an insult. Apologize.”

The crowd watched in surprise. Here was this stunning woman, and Filip wasn't defending her; he was treating her harshly.

Filip reasoned Jonathan cared less about the car's value; it was likely Cynthia's dismissal of $300 that caused the lingering resentment.

Seeing Jonathan didn't object to her explanation, Cynthia confidently approached him, raising her glass. “Three years ago, I didn’t recognize you, and that was my mistake. I sincerely apologize, Mr. Bennett.”

She added meaningfully, “I hope you can be gracious and not hold a grudge against a nobody like me.”

Jonathan laughed—a cold, sharp laugh that chilled the crowd. He smirked, malice in his voice. “You think one drink can erase three years of resentment?”

The crowd gasped, shocked he still harbored resentment over such a minor incident, especially his treatment of Cynthia. He clearly wasn't forgiving. They resolved to be cautious around him, casting sympathetic glances at Cynthia.

“What can I do to make you feel better, Mr. Bennett?” Cynthia asked, attempting to lighten the mood.

Jonathan picked up an unopened bottle of whiskey. “One drink won't suffice, but a whole bottle might.”

Silence fell. Asking a delicate lady to drink an entire bottle of strong liquor? Outrageous! But before anyone could intervene, someone began pouring the whiskey into ten glasses lined up on the table.

Jonathan's gaze locked onto Cynthia. "Mrs. Yates, go ahead.”

Cynthia thought if one bottle could erase their past troubles, it might be worth it. She stepped forward, took a glass, and said, “Mr. Bennett, you seem like a man of your word. If I drink this, our issues will vanish, and you’ll give Yates Construction a fair chance.”

“Of course,” Jonathan replied with amusement.

As Cynthia raised her glass, murmurs rippled through the crowd.

“Mrs. Yates is something—beautiful and strong. But her husband? He’s completely useless.”

“Right? He lets his wife take the heat. What a coward!”

“She’s trying to defend the family, and he’s silent.”

“If he can’t stand up for his wife, what kind of man is he?”

Filip’s face flushed with anger and embarrassment. Can’t they see Cynthia is to blame? But he knew he had to act. He snatched the glass from Cynthia’s hand and declared, “She’s my wife. I’ll take responsibility. I’ll drink in her place, Mr. Bennett.”

He expected refusal, but Jonathan smirked. “You’re quite the supportive husband, Mr. Yates. Drink.”