Chapter 249

Isabella Langley's stilettos clicked across the marble floor as she strode toward the penthouse of Valentine Corporation. The elevator doors slid shut just as she caught sight of Julian Roscente stepping inside.

She narrowed her eyes at his retreating figure. Over the past year, the playboy heir had shed his frivolous demeanor, replacing it with an air of quiet authority.

But no amount of polish could disguise his privileged upbringing. Like Vincent Ashcroft, he was merely another stepping stone for the Langley family's ascent.

A smirk curled her lips as the elevator ascended. The mighty Roscente heir, groveling after a worthless woman.

Her knuckles rapped twice against the CEO's office door.

Adrian Valentine's deep voice granted entry. The memory of Julian heading upstairs sparked an idea.

With Cassandra Valentine making a scene and Evelyn Roland caught in the crossfire, this was too good to miss.

Her fingers flew across the phone screen. Penthouse showdown happening now. Goldmine for ratings.

Those hangers-around Adrian had been getting too cozy with Evelyn lately. Time to expose his ex-wife's true colors.

Adrian didn't glance up when she entered. The man radiated icy detachment, every movement exuding aristocratic precision as he flipped through documents.

"You're interrupting."

The chill in his tone made her stomach clench.

"Adrian, Julian went to see Evelyn. Cassandra's up there too." She injected false concern into her voice. "You know how she feels about him. If she sees them together—"

"Enough." His laugh held no warmth. "Cassandra's theatrics don't interest me. Go spectate if you're bored."

His attention returned to the computer where Nathan Aldridge's latest intelligence report glowed. Vincent Langley's empire had suffered consecutive blows this month, with Phoenix Group dominating the jewelry sector.

More puzzling was the shadowy force systematically dismantling Langley Holdings. The business landscape had transformed in thirty days.

Isabella approached as Adrian swiftly minimized the screen.

"Adrian..." She leaned in, lower lip trembling. "You've been so distant. Have I done something wrong?"

He met her glassy-eyed gaze. How many schemes hid behind that wounded fawn act? After a year, he saw through the performance.

"You're perfect." His smile didn't reach his eyes. "Just preoccupied with more pressing matters than romance."

"But couples should spend time together." Her voice cracked. "You haven't made time for me in weeks..."