Chapter 141

"First, I'd like to express my gratitude for this opportunity. Nanotechnology represents the cutting edge of modern innovation—"

Victoria stood center stage with effortless poise, her manicured fingers gliding across the tablet to advance her slides.

Her credentials as Nexa's Technical Director were undeniable. Every statistic, every projection flowed with practiced precision, showcasing her mastery of the subject.

As she concluded, she tapped her tablet screen closed with a satisfied smile.

"These are our preliminary findings. I welcome any questions or insights from our distinguished colleagues."

Her gaze swept across the boardroom, lingering pointedly on Evelyn.

"Ms. Carter, as President of Kingsley Industries, your perspective would be particularly valuable. Would you care to share your thoughts?"

The abrupt invitation turned every head toward Evelyn.

Evelyn caught the challenge in Victoria's eyes but remained composed, merely arching one sculpted brow in response.

When Evelyn didn't immediately speak, Victoria's lips curled. Clearly, the woman was out of her depth—probably hadn't understood half the technical specifications.

"Actually," Evelyn finally said, her voice smooth as aged whiskey, "Ms. Sinclair's presentation was remarkably thorough. I find little to critique."

Victoria's triumph flared. Just as she'd suspected—the so-called president was nothing but a pretty face playing executive.

But she wouldn't let Evelyn escape so easily.

"Please, Ms. Carter," Victoria purred, "your modesty does you no favors. Those of us new to this sector could learn much from your... extensive experience."

The barb about Evelyn's youth and inexperience hung in the air, sparking murmurs around the conference table.

Nathan's knuckles whitened around his pen. His warning glare went ignored.

"While you may be young," Victoria pressed on, "I'm certain someone in your position must have unique insights. Consider it a learning opportunity for us all."

The room hushed. All eyes locked onto Evelyn.

Nathan suppressed a smirk. He'd witnessed Evelyn dismantle far more formidable opponents during her years as his secretary. This would be entertaining.

Evelyn rose with the grace of a panther uncoiling from repose.

"Since Ms. Sinclair insists," she said, moving toward the display screen with predatory elegance.

Victoria crossed her arms, smirk firmly in place. The stage was set for Evelyn's humiliation.

Evelyn tapped the tablet, bringing Victoria's presentation back to life. "The proposed methodology demonstrates impressive innovation," she began, tracing a fingertip along a data stream. "The market analysis is particularly robust."

She pivoted to face the room. "Ms. Sinclair has done exceptional work contextualizing this venture's potential."

Then her finger froze on a slide. "Though I do wonder—" Her nail tapped a seemingly innocuous figure. "—if the projected 47% yield accounts for the recent FDA regulatory changes?"

Victoria's smile faltered.

Evelyn continued before she could respond. "And while the Singapore trial results are promising," she swiped to another slide, "have we considered how the seasonal monsoon patterns might impact production timelines?"

A beat of silence. Then another.

Victoria's manicure dug into her forearm. Every supposed flaw Evelyn highlighted was devastatingly accurate.

The board members began murmuring, some reaching for tablets to verify the claims.

Evelyn leaned casually against the presentation table. "Of course, these are minor considerations. Overall, Ms. Sinclair's work is..." Her lips curved. "...quite adequate for a first attempt."