Chapter 144

Theodore rushed to intercept them just as the elevator doors began to close.

"Mr. Whitmore! Kingsley Industries has poured significant resources into this venture." His voice carried a desperate edge. "If Sterling Enterprises backs out now, it could cripple our operations. Please reconsider."

Harrison and Evelyn exchanged silent glances.

With each passing floor, Theodore's window of opportunity narrowed. Sweat beaded on his forehead as he scrambled for persuasive words.

"Ms. Carter, I sincerely apologize for today's unfortunate incident. Successful partnerships require—"

The elevator chimed. The couple stepped inside without hesitation.

"That will be all, Mr. Montgomery." Evelyn's tone left no room for negotiation.

The doors slid shut, cutting off Theodore's final plea. His shoulders slumped in defeat.

Nathan approached with Simon in tow. "Theodore."

Theodore startled at the unexpected address. "Mr. Sterling?"

Nathan adjusted his cufflinks with deliberate calm. "Today's... demonstration was quite illuminating. Let's ensure such theatrics don't become habitual in our professional circles."

Theodore swallowed hard. "Surely we can find some compromise—"

"Effective leadership requires discernment in personnel decisions." Nathan's gaze turned steely. "I trust I don't need to elaborate further."

Understanding dawned on Theodore's face. He nodded vigorously.

Once the Sterling entourage departed, Theodore summoned Victoria to his office.

"Sir, I can expl—" Her words dissolved into a sharp gasp as Theodore's palm connected with her cheek.

Victoria clutched her stinging face, eyes wide with shock.

"Do you comprehend the magnitude of your blunder today?" Theodore's voice trembled with suppressed rage.

Victoria stared at the floor. The situation had spiraled far beyond her expectations.

"My behavior was unacceptable. I'll make amends." Her contrition rang hollow.

Theodore's jaw tightened. Victoria wasn't typically this reckless. "What's your history with Ms. Carter?"

Silence.

Theodore slammed his fist against the mahogany desk. "Effective immediately, you're relieved of all responsibilities. Indefinite suspension."

"Sir!" Panic laced Victoria's voice. "This isn't what it seems! Let me—"

"Enough!" Theodore massaged his temples. "Get out."

Victoria exited under the weight of her colleagues' judgmental stares. The office door slammed behind her with finality.

Alone, she dialed a familiar number with trembling fingers. "Uncle..."

Her voice cracked as months of pent-up frustration came pouring out.

Meanwhile, Harrison and Evelyn emerged into golden afternoon light. As they walked, Harrison shared his findings.

"Victoria Sinclair is connected to the Delaneys. Isabella's her cousin."

Evelyn's lips curved in sudden understanding. "That explains today's theatrics."

A dry chuckle escaped her as the pieces fell into place.