Chapter 230

The whispers carried through the marble lobby like a spreading wildfire.

"Two powerful men fighting over one woman? Remember Harrison Whitmore who used to be so close with Evelyn Carter? Rumor has it Mr. Whitmore has become Mrs. Carter's new golden boy now."

"Oh darling, this is better than daytime television!"

Before the gossip could escalate further, Nathan Sterling rose from the plush leather couch, his shadow Simon following closely behind.

"Mr. Sterling, just idle chatter. Pay it no mind."

Nathan remained silent.

His stormy gaze could freeze hell itself, the temperature around him dropping several degrees.

They moved toward the elevators - one leading, the other following like a loyal hound.

"Adrian, the Dunhill market shows tremendous promise. I'm considering making it our primary focus for the next three years."

"Solid strategy. If we dominate Dunhill, our profit margins could triple."

"Adrian, you have my word on this. I won't let you down... Crude oil is the future..."

Their conversation flowed smoothly as they exited the elevator.

Until it didn't.

"Well look who's back in the lion's den. Mrs. Carter!"

Adrian's words died mid-sentence as an unexpected voice interrupted.

Evelyn turned to see a familiar figure. Her lips curled into a knowing smile as she approached.

"Director Hawthorne, what a surprise! Fancy seeing you here."

"I heard about your... unfortunate incident. Came to check if you're still in one piece. Everything intact?"

Classic.

A greeting laced with poison.

Evelyn's smile didn't waver. "How thoughtful of you, Director. Just a scratch really."

Julian Hawthorne nodded with practiced paternal concern.

"Excellent. Mrs. Carter, your fashion show was quite the success, brought significant..."

He continued smoothly, "But the quarterly reports are in, and we're nowhere near the promised thirty percent growth. You'll need to work harder, Mrs. Carter."

Evelyn lifted her chin, meeting his gaze without flinching. "One quarter doesn't make a year, Director. Our deadline hasn't passed. Anything could happen before..."

"Of course, Mrs. Carter! Merely a friendly reminder."

Julian's laugh rang hollow as he made to leave.

Evelyn stopped him cold. "Director Hawthorne, when did you develop such passion for fashion design?"

His smile froze mid-step. A flicker of unease crossed his features before he schooled them back into neutrality. "I take interest in all company ventures. Fashion is simply one aspect."

Evelyn's eyes narrowed to slits. His answer satisfied her about as much as a glass of warm champagne.

She'd reviewed the security footage from the show. Imagine her surprise spotting Julian among the audience.

She didn't believe in coincidences.

"How... diligent of you, Director."

The barb in her words was unmistakable, but Julian pretended not to notice.

His retreat looked suspiciously like a rout. As the elevator doors opened, Julian hurried inside - only to collide headfirst with Nathan Sterling emerging from it.

"Mr. Sterling?"