The Perfect Wife's Perfect Revenge novel Chapter 229

Simms didn't so much as glance at Victoria, as if she were a stranger, his attention fixed solely on Violet across the table.

"It's not your first time at Vertex Dynamics, is it, Ms. Marchand? This is my first visit. I've heard their restaurant is excellent—thought I'd see for myself."

Violet smiled. "If you like it, Uncle, you're welcome to come back anytime. What do you think, McNeil?"

She made a show of consulting McNeil, but in truth, she'd already made the decision for him.

Simms's smile deepened, crinkling the corners of his eyes, while Yulia looked pleased that McNeil seemed to value Violet's opinion so highly.

"You're always welcome," McNeil said quietly. When Victoria approached, he looked away, swirling his wine and taking a slow sip.

The attention of both companies' top executives was centered on McNeil's table; Victoria's departure was abrupt but barely registered with the group. Only the tech department folks seemed to notice.

"Ms. Turner looked a bit off—seems like something's bothering her," someone murmured.

"I heard she's going through a divorce," another replied with a sigh. "No matter how successful a woman is at work, a failed marriage still leaves a mark."

Someone else shook their head in pity. "Just look at Ms. Marchand—she has Mr. Langford's full support. She's got love and a thriving career. Didn't she have stomach cancer a while ago? It was supposed to be serious—doctors said she had three months at most. But Mr. Langford called in a top specialist and even gave up his own spot for surgery to save her. Sometimes, picking the right partner really does make all the difference."

A sympathetic sigh. "Poor Ms. Turner. She deserves better."

As lunch wound down, the gossip only grew louder.

Victoria was nearly past McNeil's table when Violet spoke up, her tone casual but clear.

They hurried to make room, even reaching out to guide Victoria into a seat.

"Ms. Turner, come on—stay a while. It's still early, no need to rush off," Mr. Harper insisted, all smiles. "Everyone here can handle a drink or two, and your team from Investment is known for being top-notch—bet you can drink us all under the table. Ms. Marchand and all the execs have invited you; give us the honor."

McNeil watched as his two deputies coaxed Victoria, but made no move to intervene. He simply sipped his wine, eyes cold, saying nothing.

"No, thank you. I don't dine with people I don't know," Victoria said icily, pulling her arm from Mr. Harper's grasp, her expression darkening.

"Ms. Turner, it's nothing personal," Violet said smoothly. "Since the execs are here, we were just discussing the new game development project with the tech department. You've got experience in this area—thought you might want to share your insights."

She turned to McNeil. "Don't you agree, Mr. Langford? Ms. Turner is talented in game development. Honestly, I think she's wasted in Investment; she'd be a real asset in R&D. What's your take?"