Chapter 253

The odds were increasingly in Evelyn's favor.

Nathan Sterling wasn't about to concede defeat yet. Not when there were still six months left in their wager.

"Patience," he murmured, swirling his whiskey. "Building takes years. Destroying? That only takes moments."

His eyes darkened with determination. After decades in the corporate world, he wouldn't be outmaneuvered by some upstart.

"That Adrian Prescott needs to disappear."

Julian Hawthorne's assistant leaned in. "Sir, I might have a solution."

Nathan's eyebrow arched. "Do enlighten me."

Donovan Pierce whispered his plan. A slow smile spread across Nathan's face. "Impressive. You've learned well."

"Thank you, Director Hawthorne."

Meanwhile, Evelyn had organized a celebration at The Velvet Lounge for Adrian's success with the Dunhill project. The entire Kingsley Industries team was there, glasses raised.

"To Adrian Prescott - the mastermind behind our Dunhill victory!"

"Congratulations, Mr. Prescott!"

"To Kingsley Industries' continued success!"

As the night progressed, Evelyn noticed Adrian's growing concern for her. "I should head home," she announced. "Don't let me ruin the party."

Adrian immediately stood. "Let me drive you."

She shook her head. "Stay. Enjoy your moment. My driver's already on the way."

"At least let me walk you out."

At the entrance, Evelyn insisted, "Go back inside. The car will be here any second."

The Dunhill project was massive - long-term, high-profit. Its success alone could account for 10% of Kingsley Industries' annual revenue.

Evelyn had exceeded all expectations.

"Director Hawthorne," Donovan murmured, "this wasn't just Ms. Carter's doing. Adrian Prescott is the real threat."

Nathan's expression darkened. "Our previous investigation showed he has no powerful connections. Remove him, and Evelyn loses her strongest ally."

"Precisely. And I've heard rumors... he's considering leaving Kingsley Industries."

Nathan's eyes gleamed. "Is that so?"

"Nothing confirmed yet. But after Dunhill concludes..."

A cold smirk twisted Nathan's lips. "Adrian's skills are undeniable. But Dunhill won't be smooth sailing. Just because we won the bid doesn't mean we'll keep it."

"But with only six months left in your wager..."

That was Nathan's real concern. Current projections already showed Kingsley Industries' profits surpassing last year's.

Outside the lounge, Adrian hesitated. "I'll wait until your car arrives."

Evelyn sighed but didn't argue further.

"You know," Adrian said casually, "it's been six months since I joined Kingsley Industries."

"Time flies."

"When I first arrived, I had no idea you were the woman my family wanted me to marry." Regret colored his voice. Had he known, he never would have rejected the arrangement.

Now it was too late.

"Evelyn, if I could go back... I'd marry you without hesitation."

She stiffened. "You've had too much to drink. Go rest."

Adrian chuckled bitterly. "Perhaps. But in my heart, you'll always be my lady."

The headlights of her car approached. "My ride's here." She quickly got in, waving through the window.

Adrian watched until the taillights disappeared before returning to the party.

Inside the car, Evelyn scrolled absently through her phone.

Suddenly - SCREECH!

The car jerked violently. Evelyn slammed against the front seat, her phone flying.

Rubbing her forehead, she gasped, "What happened?"

The driver's face was pale as he pointed. "Look!"

Outside, a gang of bikers surrounded the vehicle, their predatory gazes locked on Evelyn through the windows.

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