Chapter 258

Though Evelyn's reaction caught Julian off guard, he dismissed it as mere nervousness from the unexpected situation.

"The compliance team will determine if there's been any misconduct," Julian stated calmly. "They're currently at the company headquarters. Would you care to join them, Ms. Carter?"

Evelyn gave him a penetrating look before rising from her seat and striding out.

In Adrian's office, uniformed investigators swarmed like bees, collecting evidence while the heir lounged insolently on his leather couch.

"Finished yet?" Adrian drawled, examining his manicure. "Some of us have actual work to do."

The officers ignored his taunt, methodically searching through files and electronics.

Adrian's smirk faded as his eyes turned glacial.

When Evelyn entered, her displeasure was palpable. "Explain this."

The lead investigator stepped forward. "Standard procedure, Ms. Carter. We received credible allegations of—"

Evelyn's lips curled in derision. "After all this time, have you found anything substantial?"

The team exchanged glances. "The investigation is ongoing. While we haven't uncovered definitive proof yet—"

The supervisor cut in, "Our next step involves examining Mr. Prescott's financial records for suspicious transactions."

Julian appeared at Evelyn's shoulder. "They're merely doing their due diligence. Let's allow them to complete their work. The truth will emerge."

"I'm confident these professionals won't wrongfully accuse an innocent man," he added pointedly, "nor allow guilt to go unpunished."

Adrian's head snapped up. "Watch your mouth, Hawthorne! Who exactly are you calling guilty?"

"Merely stating facts, Mr. Prescott. The investigation will reveal all."

"Investigation my ass! This is your doing, isn't it?" Adrian surged to his feet. "I've got nothing to hide, but when this farce ends, you'll owe me a public apology!"

Julian's smile didn't reach his eyes. "Don't be too certain. The day's still young."

"Why you—"

"Adrian!" Evelyn's sharp tone cut through the tension.

Seeing her, Adrian's anger visibly dissipated.

Evelyn approached him, placing a calming hand on his arm. "I know you'd never betray the company. What's a few million to someone like you?"

Adrian exhaled sharply. "Damn right it's nothing to me," he muttered, glaring at Julian.

Evelyn's expression turned stern. "But protocol must be followed. Let them complete their search."

With a derisive snort, Adrian spread his arms. "Be my guests. Enjoy the show."