Chapter 152

"What did she say?"

Nathan's jaw tightened as Evelyn's dismissive tone grated on his nerves.

The woman he remembered had always been soft-spoken and compliant. When had she developed this steel spine? Or had this been her true self all along?

"Evelyn, I've heard about your situation. I know you need to boost your numbers."

Sterling Enterprises could be your solution."

He extended the offer like a peace offering between warring nations.

"Pass."

Her rejection came swift and sharp as a guillotine blade.

"Anything else? If not, move your car."

White-hot anger surged through his veins. "You'd rather crash and burn than accept my help?"

Something about him felt off today—desperate almost.

"Crash? Burn?"

Her laughter held no mirth. "Those words don't exist in my vocabulary. And Mr. Sterling, we're divorced. Kingsley Industries and Sterling Enterprises are competitors now. Save your charity for someone who needs it."

"Still as stubborn as ever, I see."

She revved the engine in response.

Nathan barely had time to register the cold determination in her eyes before impact.

The sickening crunch of metal filled the air as his Lamborghini's pristine hood caved inward.

"Have you lost your damn mind?"

His shout went unanswered as she leaned out the window.

"Never approach a woman's car uninvited."

Her crimson lips curved dangerously. "Next time, I might not stop at property damage."

The tires screeched as she peeled away, leaving him gripping a steering wheel that refused to turn over.

"I won't forget this, Evelyn Carter."

In her rearview mirror, the adrenaline faded as quickly as it came.

What had possessed her to nearly commit vehicular manslaughter? The wind whipped through her open window, cooling the irrational fury.

Her car's Bluetooth chimed. "Darling, just landed. Care to play chauffeur?"

Adrian's voice dripped with its usual playful arrogance.

"Finished your French escapade?"

She could practically hear his smirk through the speakers.

"Landed three new accounts. Next quarter's projections just doubled."

Despite herself, pride flickered in her chest. The man might be insufferable, but his business acumen was undeniable.

"I'll arrange a welcome party with your team."

"Wait—"

His tone turned petulant. "I called you before customs. Doesn't that deserve a personal pickup?"

"Touched beyond words by your dedication."

"Then get your gorgeous self to Terminal 3. Unless you want me sleeping on an airport bench."

The exaggerated pout in his voice made her roll her eyes as she executed a sharp U-turn.

"Fine. Don't move."

His triumphant chuckle grated on her nerves. "Wouldn't dream of it, love."