Dear Ex-wife Marry Me by Twin Bridge

Chapter 2212

He'd assumed she genuinely wanted to broaden her horizons, so he hadn't given it a second thought.

That night, as they were getting ready for bed, Tyler wrapped his arms around her and began quietly undoing the ties of her nightgown. But Athena turned away, her voice cool and distant.

"Not tonight. Actually, not for a while."

The spark in Tyler's eyes faded, but he understood there was no use pushing. "Alright," he murmured.

They fell asleep in each other's arms, the silence between them unspoken but palpable.

Maggie's birthday party was a lavish affair, with a guest list that seemed to include half the city. Athena spent the evening surrounded by stylists, being prepped and polished. She knew she'd see Maggie that night—and could already imagine how furious Maggie would be at the sight of her. But it was a birthday party, after all; Maggie wouldn't dare cause a scene, not with Abner keeping her in check.

In the days leading up to the party, Athena had learned all she could about Abner from Tyler. Everyone in the Olson family respected-no, feared-Abner, Maggie included.

As long as Abner was around, Maggie wouldn't dare step out of line.

Tonight's party was being held at the Olson family's Greenfield estate, a grand mansion they'd acquired only a few years back.

Tyler was ready first, and when he saw Athena step out in a form-fitting mermaid gown that hugged her waist perfectly, his eyes lit up and his breath caught.

"Athena, you look stunning tonight."

He leaned in and kissed her cheek. Athena said nothing, quietly slipping her hand into his as they headed out.

When they arrived at the Olson estate, Athena noted the line of luxury cars parked at the entrance-a clear sign of the family's influence and wealth. She couldn't help a small, wry smile as she followed Tyler inside.

The grand hall was awash in designer dresses and sharp suits. Athena spotted Carol almost instantly, chatting and laughing with friends. Felix stood close, his arm slung around Carol's waist. She nudged him away, only for Felix to pull her back in, the two of them radiating that easy kind of affection that made it look effortless.

her eyes, quietly

no one asked about Athena-everyone knew about Tyler's reputation, and bringing a date was hardly out of character. Still,

surprised, then quickly offered

to introduce her to

on the other hand, felt out of place. She disliked the way people's eyes lingered on her,

sight of Maggie making her entrance, descending the spiral staircase with perfect poise. To be fair, Maggie was beautiful, and her outfit tonight suited her perfectly. On her arm was a young man-mid-to-late twenties, with a rugged cross-shaped scar by his eye that only added

aura.

overheard the guests

and Maggie really are inseparable. He

to be interested in women, but after Maggie saved him, he swore

match made in heaven. The Keller and Olson families are even

he supposed to be

was Marlon-the man beside

as she

her composure. Tyler didn't

init. But then shë spotted Athena and her expression

she wore stood out; it was a recent runway design,

noticed Tyler, too. He nodded coolly, acknowledging him across

room.

Marlon and Maggie were constantly pulled into conversations. By the time they made it over to Tyler

the shoulder, the two men

show. Must've made a killing,

as much as you, I'm sure. I hear you and Abner just ran another company into

gaze to Athena. "Aren't you going to introduce your