Chapter 178

Evelyn took a deep breath and stood up, patting Nathan's shoulder.

"Nathan, you've worked hard these past four years. I'm taking a vacation. The company is in your hands now."

She smiled. "I'll gift you a villa by year-end as a reward."

Money held no appeal for Nathan.

He thrived on impossible challenges.

What truly grated on him was having to weigh every word as CEO.

This stifling existence was driving him mad.

"Boss, send me on a mission instead. Sophia and I make a great team. I can't stand staring at financial reports all day."

Evelyn suddenly gripped his shoulder tightly.

"Foolish boy. Since when does anyone get to do only what they love?" Her voice softened. "I detest office work too, yet here I am."

She coaxed him like a child, her smile disarming.

Nathan exhaled in resignation.

Her gentle persuasion always broke his resolve.

Thirty days a month, he loathed coming to work.

But next month might bring deliverance.

The thought of Sophia's thrilling missions abroad made the mountain of files before him unbearable.

With a defeated sigh, he trudged toward his desk.

Evelyn arrived at C.Y Media headquarters.

Her entrance caused an immediate stir in the lobby.

The receptionist recognized her instantly, eyes flashing with hostility.

"Ms. Roland, you're not welcome here."

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "Excuse me?"

Being barred from her own company was unexpected.

The receptionist was Isabella Langley's devoted fan.

"How dare you show your face after seducing someone's fiancé? Ms. Langley would be disgusted by your shamelessness!"

Evelyn's gaze turned glacial. "Is this how you treat guests?"

"Women like you deserve no courtesy!"

The receptionist lifted her chin, already imagining Isabella's approval.

A crowd gathered, whispers rippling through the lobby.

"That's the Langley family's adopted daughter who went after her sister's man..."

"Mr. Valentine denied it, but who believes that..."

Evelyn's piercing stare silenced the speaker.

The woman recoiled involuntarily.

A cold smile played on Evelyn's lips.

There was history indeed—just not the kind they imagined.

Then, amidst the crowd, she spotted a familiar figure.