Never Mistake a Queen for a Lapdog novel Chapter 171

When Bianca heard Dylan's voice, the light in her eyes vanished completely.

Her fingers tightened around her teacup, knuckles turning white.

She never imagined that both CEO Joyner and Dylan had rejected her for Noreen's sake.

She could accept CEO Joyner's decision—he'd always been pragmatic.

But Dylan? Did their shared history mean nothing to him now?

Seth, watching her closely, reached over and took the wine glass from her hand. "Let's go say hello."

Bianca stared at him in a daze.

"I'll go with you."

With just those four words, he made it clear: I've got your back.

…

Dylan's arrival was a surprise to everyone.

He explained that he'd just wrapped up a meeting nearby, saw a post about the gathering online, and thought he'd drop in.

Of course, that was just the official story.

The truth was, he'd made up the excuse just to see her.

"That's quite the coincidence," Noreen said cheerfully, showing no sign of suspicion, and asked the waiter to bring another place setting.

Sophia started to scoot over to make room for Dylan.

But quick-eyed Mina jumped up first. "You can sit over here. I've just about finished eating, and you guys will be talking business anyway. I'll go take some photos."

Mina had been seated beside Carman, with a spot between her and Noreen.

Sophia, on the other hand, was right next to Noreen. She had no intention of giving her brother's rival a chance.

Dylan had barely settled into his seat when there was another knock on the private dining room door.

Noreen thought it must be CEO Joyner—she was already bracing herself.

Bianca, still stung by his earlier rejection, barely nodded in response.

CEO Joyner didn't seem to mind, keeping up the friendly front. "Since we've all run into each other, why not join forces for dinner?"

"I'm actually here to discuss the summit with Mr. Wilder," Seth replied, not missing a beat. "But if you're available, CEO Joyner, you're welcome to join us."

"Absolutely!" CEO Joyner agreed right away, not hesitating for a second.

After all, Mr. Harcourt of Aurelion Group was the rising star of Rivercrest City's financial world. Getting an invitation like this was a stroke of luck, and CEO Joyner knew when to seize an opportunity.

He still wanted to talk to Noreen, of course, but business came first. Some things simply took precedence.

Watching CEO Joyner choose so decisively, Bianca couldn't help but let a faint smile play at her lips.

Her gaze brushed past Noreen and landed on Carman, who sat quietly at her side.

After a brief pause, Bianca spoke up. "Mr. Holt, would you care to join us?"

Seth may have been the one hosting dinner, but Bianca didn't hesitate to extend the invitation herself.