Chapter 367

Margaret Valentine lifted her chin arrogantly. "If you kneel before the entire nation, apologize to Isabella, and cure her spinal stenosis, the Langley family might consider working with you."

Evelyn Roland met her gaze calmly.

This woman had despised her from their first meeting, constantly finding fault.

Was it simply because she had once been married to Adrian?

Even after the divorce, Margaret refused to let go.

Such obsession could only stem from either inherent malice—

Or some hidden agenda.

"Evelyn, you'd better think carefully about Eleanor's proposal." Isabella smirked, tilting her head. "Everyone knows you're losing this deal because of me. Nathan is watching. Even he will question your competence. Kneeling and apologizing would benefit us all."

Her back injury had worsened over the years. Excessive indulgence with Vincent Langley had left her body frail.

The pain couldn't be ignored any longer.

A dangerous glint flashed in Nathan Aldridge's eyes as he stared at Margaret. Did this woman truly think Evelyn would kneel to her? The audacity!

Eleanor pressed on, seeing Evelyn's silence. "Evelyn, the finest medicinal herbs in the Nine-City Alliance belong to the Langleys. No amount of money can buy them elsewhere. Inferior ingredients will ruin your cosmetics."

She turned to Nathan. "Mr. Aldridge, Sterling Manor values competence. Don't let someone's incompetence tarnish your reputation."

Though capable, Nathan was merely an executive. Poor performance could cost him his position.

Nathan scoffed. "Eleanor, my hiring decisions are none of your concern. As for your so-called 'solution,' keep it. The only one who should apologize is this shameless woman."

"Expecting help with that attitude? Dream on."

Margaret narrowed her eyes, stunned by his defiance.

Eleanor's face darkened. "Let's make a deal, Nathan. Fire her, and the Langleys will partner with Sterling Manor immediately."

Nathan didn't even glance at her. "Sterling Manor has no interest in the Langleys."

With that, he escorted Evelyn away, heading for their reserved private room.

Margaret and Eleanor trembled with rage but could only watch them leave.

Margaret glared at Evelyn's retreating figure, murderous intent swirling in her eyes.

This woman had to die.

Eleanor patted her arm. "Don't worry, Isabella. Nathan won't secure that contract."

Margaret smiled knowingly. The Langleys' influence in Vienna was absolute. "Thank you. Let me treat you to dinner tonight."

"Wonderful! But tomorrow is my father-in-law's seventieth birthday. You must help me prepare the banquet."

Margaret linked arms with her. "Of course. I'll be at the Imperial Palace Hotel first thing in the morning."

Eleanor beamed.

......

Inside the private room, the potential partners ultimately declined the deal, fearing the Langleys' retaliation.

Profit meant nothing if it cost them their business in Vienna.

Evelyn understood their predicament and remained silent.

As they exited, Nathan's fury erupted. "Do the Langleys truly believe they rule Vienna? How dare they oppose Sterling Manor!"

He was already considering extreme measures.

Evelyn gave him a sidelong glance. "Control yourself. Where's that market analysis I asked for?"

Nathan forwarded a document. "Here you go, Evelyn. Sent."