Chapter 226

Dominic's gaze locked onto Evelyn. "Evelyn, Maxwell just called."

At the mention of Maxwell's name, Evelyn instantly understood. "Is this about the fashion show incident?"

Dominic gave a grim nod. "We've identified the saboteur. He confessed to sneaking backstage with scissors and deliberately cutting the garments."

Evelyn's hands clenched into fists. "What else did he say?"

Dominic's jaw tightened. "The man's a ghost—no family, no connections. Received a million-dollar wire transfer the day before the show, but the source is untraceable."

"He's refusing to talk. Won't name whoever hired him."

Evelyn exhaled sharply, piecing together the implications. "So we've hit a wall?"

Dominic's confirming hum was answer enough.

"Whoever's targeting you is operating from the shadows. Think carefully—any new enemies lately?"

Evelyn's laugh held no humor. "The list of people who'd love to see me fail could fill a stadium."

Dominic's expression darkened. "Could this be about Nathan?"

Isabella's scheming face flashed through both their minds.

"Or the Delaneys?"

Evelyn shook her head. "With their empire crumbling, I doubt they could scrape together that kind of money now."

The logic was sound, yet Dominic's frown deepened. "Then who—"

"Dominic," Evelyn interrupted, "since he's confessed, handle this according to Kingsley protocol."

Understanding flashed in Dominic's eyes. "Provoking our family carries consequences. Consider it done."

Evelyn gave a satisfied nod.

But Dominic wasn't finished. "Evelyn, Pamore's a viper's nest. Grandfather and I can't stand you being there alone."

"Leave Kingsley Industries behind. Come home where you're protected."

Evelyn's refusal was immediate. "I made a wager with Director Hawthorne. One year to turn the company around—I won't walk away before seeing it through."

"Evelyn—" Dominic began, but she cut him off.

"I know you're worried. But a Kingsley doesn't quit. What would that say about our family's reputation?"

The argument left Dominic speechless. "Little Star," he murmured, using her childhood nickname.

"Trust me, Dominic. Just one year. If I fail, I'll return without argument."

Dominic recognized her stubborn set jaw. Compromise was his only option.

"Fine. But you're accepting the security detail I've arranged. No negotiations."

Evelyn hesitated, weighing his stormy expression. With a sigh, she relented. "Alright. If it eases your mind, I'll take the bodyguard."

She forced a teasing smile. "Though I doubt anyone at Kingsley Industries will dare cross me now."