Chapter 835

Donovan Pierce's words instantly sparked a wave of encouragement from the crowd.

As their key figure, his opinion held undeniable sway.

"Isabella Montgomery, are you backing out? Three contracts and one French kiss. By any calculation, you're getting the better deal!"

"Exactly, Ms. Montgomery! Even if you lose, charming Mr. Pierce might still turn things around..."

"If you're too scared, your friend can always take your place."

Several pairs of eyes flicked toward Evelyn.

Evelyn's expression darkened. Before she could speak, Isabella's temper flared.

"What's there to be afraid of? It's just a stupid game!"

Evelyn barely had time to stop her before the words tumbled out.

She tugged Isabella closer, whispering urgently. "Donovan Pierce isn't some pushover. Let it go. The contracts aren't worth this."

Their presence at this gathering already signaled willingness to work with the Montgomerys.

Evelyn studied Donovan's face—the smirk, the arrogant confidence.

Isabella was drunk, reckless, convinced she couldn't lose.

"Relax, I've got this!"

Isabella stood abruptly. "Poker dice. One round, highest hand wins."

Donovan nodded. "Agreed."

The room fell silent.

Isabella snatched up the cup, gave it a practiced shake, and slammed it down. Her movements were fluid, brimming with cocky assurance. She lifted it.

Three of a kind.

Evelyn exhaled.

A beat of silence.

The odds were in Isabella's favor. She'd spent years mastering this game before quitting.

Donovan smirked, picked up another cup, gave it three lazy shakes, and dropped it.

His posture screamed indifference.

"Ms. Montgomery, you won't accuse me of bullying you if I win?"

Isabella scowled. "Win fair and square, and I'll honor it. But when you lose, those contracts get signed tonight."

Donovan's grin widened. His voice dropped low. "Deal." He flipped the cup.

The crowd reacted instantly. Everyone except Evelyn's group burst into laughter.

Four of a kind.

Isabella lost.

Evelyn's gaze snapped to Donovan. His victorious laugh grated on her nerves. Isabella had chosen the terms—no takebacks. This wasn't child's play.

Isabella stared at the dice for five full seconds before scoffing.

Evelyn gripped her arm, bracing for an outburst.

"Need backup?"

They could still salvage this.

Despite the alcohol, Isabella was lucid enough to know her limits. She'd picked her strongest game—only to discover Donovan was a shark at everything.

This bastard set me up!

With anyone else, she'd have their parents on speed dial. But not him.

Isabella forced a smile. "I'm fine." Her stomach churned.

Donovan stood, adjusted his jacket with one hand in his pocket, and strolled forward.

"Don't be a sore loser, Ms. Montgomery..." The crowd jeered.

Isabella's jaw tightened. So I lost. It's just a damn kiss.

She rose, voice dripping with disdain. "Tell me, Mr. Pierce, how do you stack up against my exes?"