Chapter 115

A knowing smirk played on Evelyn Carter's crimson lips as she leaned against the doorframe. "I see my presence isn't exactly welcome here."

Despite her sarcastic remark, she strode into the private dining room with effortless grace.

The atmosphere turned instantly tense. Julian Hawthorne hadn't anticipated being ambushed by Evelyn in this manner.

But as a seasoned businessman, he quickly masked his surprise.

"Ms. Carter, whatever gave you that impression?" Julian rose smoothly from his seat. "Your company is always appreciated."

As she settled into the offered chair, Evelyn's gaze locked with Nathan Sterling's for a charged moment. Electricity crackled between them.

She arched one perfectly shaped eyebrow. "How interesting to find Mr. Sterling here. I hope I'm not interrupting anything... sensitive."

"Not at all," Julian interjected smoothly. "We were just discussing your remarkable achievements. Who would've guessed you'd take Kingsley Industries by storm after leaving Sterling Enterprises?"

"Director Hawthorne was particularly impressed," Nathan added, his deep voice resonating. "Claimed you could boost board performance by thirty percent this year. Isn't that right, Ms. Carter?"

"Merely an observation," Julian said with false modesty. "No offense intended."

The tension in the room thickened as Julian realized the rumors about Evelyn and Nathan's bitter divorce might have been greatly exaggerated.

He'd clearly miscalculated.

Evelyn had overheard enough at the door to understand Julian's sudden change of heart.

She knew his game, but Nathan's unexpected presence complicated matters.

Were they conspiring against her?

Her dark eyes flashed dangerously, though her voice remained composed. "Director Hawthorne and I did make a wager, that much is true."

She fixed Julian with a piercing stare. "Now that our little bet has become public knowledge, let's maintain some dignity, shall we? Backroom deals don't become men of your stature."

Julian's expression darkened. He hadn't expected such direct confrontation.

But severing ties completely would be premature.

"Forcing a smile, he protested, "Ms. Carter, you misunderstand me. My professional integrity is beyond reproach."

"Our agreement stands exactly as we made it. I wouldn't dream of interfering."

Evelyn nodded curtly. Mission accomplished, she saw no reason to linger.

"Now that we understand each other, I'll take my leave. Gentlemen." She rose gracefully.

Nathan stood as well, adjusting his tailored suit jacket. "Allow me to escort you out."

His tone brooked no argument.

The pair exited, leaving a bewildered Julian in their wake.

This wasn't how divorced couples behaved according to the tabloids.

"Ms. Carter!" Victor Langley's voice rang out as Evelyn stepped into the restaurant's lobby.

He approached with long strides. "How did it go? Everything settled?"

Evelyn paused, studying his concerned expression.

"Mr. Langley, I owe you my thanks today."

Without his timely warning, who knew what schemes Julian and Nathan might have concocted?

At least Julian was temporarily contained.

Victor opened his mouth to respond when he noticed Nathan approaching at a leisurely pace.

His lips curved into a knowing smile as he murmured, "Between us, formalities aren't necessary."