Boss, Your Ex-Wife is Unreachable Now! novel Chapter 184

Lionel's striking, almond-shaped eyes flicked first to Cordelia, standing just behind Evelyn. When he saw no trace of irritation or distaste in Cordelia's expression, he finally allowed himself a hint of relief.

Turning back to Evelyn, he offered her a languid, almost teasing smile. "Honestly, Miss Windsor, I figured you needed this act of charity more than I did. That's why I so graciously stepped aside."

He paused, his tone light but sharp. "But if you feel that three million isn't quite enough to showcase your generosity, might I suggest simply making a direct donation? As much as you'd like, really. No need to hold back."

"You—!" Evelyn's face flushed with anger, her composure threatening to shatter.

York stepped in smoothly before things could escalate. "Evelyn participates in charity auctions every year. When it comes to doing good, she's second to none. But Mr. Scott, I don't suppose you often attend such events, do you?"

Lionel's gaze flickered instinctively toward Cordelia.

Sure enough, the young woman was watching York, her eyes bright with interest.

Juliette's words echoed in Lionel's mind: she'd told him to find out exactly what it was about York that attracted Cordelia, and then see if he possessed any of those same qualities himself.

Lionel had spent much of the evening quietly observing. Aside from gender, he found almost nothing in common between himself and York.

Did that mean he never stood a chance?

He mulled it over silently, betraying nothing on his face. Lionel's handsome, rakish features remained fixed in a gentle, amused smile as he replied to York, "You're right. That's why it's taken me so long to meet everyone here tonight."

York grinned. "Fate brings people together. We're all friends now, aren't we?"

Evelyn gave a derisive snort from the sidelines. "Speak for yourself."

Lionel ignored her, directing his attention back to York. "You're a generous man, Mr. York. I'd be glad to call you my friend."

York returned the smile. "Unfortunately, I promised to see these two lovely ladies home tonight—maybe we can grab a drink together some other time."

She didn't want York to get the wrong idea about her relationship with Lionel.

Lionel looked disappointed, but didn't press her. He just offered a gentle smile. "Then go get some rest. Take care of yourself."

York raised an eyebrow, barely perceptible, but he'd noticed the exchange.

So Lionel had feelings for Cordelia, that much was clear. But then, what about Willow?

Then again, men in these circles were notorious for keeping their options open; it was just how the game was played.

But Cordelia was Rosa's little sister—he couldn't let a guy like Lionel toy with her feelings.

So York said nothing in Lionel's defense, simply gathered Melinda and Cordelia, and left the hotel with them.