Chapter 271

"Exactly. I share the same opinion. But why would Mr. Whitmore show interest in a mere assistant? Even if he's seeking a companion, it ought to be someone of Ms. Carter's caliber, with matching social standing."

Diana lingered by the doorway, overhearing her coworkers' conversation. A bitter cocktail of emotions churned within her, fingers tightening into silent fists.

Her eyes darkened instantly with unspoken resentment.

Meanwhile, after Evelyn and Harrison completed their tour of Horizon Technologies, she'd gained substantial insight into the company's operations.

Harrison tilted his head. "So, Evelyn? Have you reached a decision about partnering with Horizon?"

Evelyn arched one perfectly shaped brow. "Is there even a question? I won't let outsiders reap benefits from our hard work. Consider it settled."

Harrison responded with an approving hum. "Excellent. Our teams can coordinate tomorrow to finalize the paperwork immediately."

"Perfect! Harrison, we do make quite the efficient team, don't we?"

As they strolled down the corridor, Harrison suddenly suggested, "Since we've wrapped up business early, how about some recreational diversion?"

Surprise flickered in Evelyn's emerald eyes. "What did you have in mind?"

Harrison's lips curved as he closed the distance between them. "I recall your childhood passion for equestrian sports. The Whitmore Equestrian Club awaits."

Evelyn's breath caught slightly.

"You remembered? Though it's been ages since I last rode. Now that you mention it..." A spark of excitement lit her features. "Shall we?"

"Absolutely," Harrison agreed without hesitation.

Soon, his luxury car carried them toward the prestigious club.

The weekday afternoon meant sparse crowds at the elite establishment. Upon arrival, uniformed staff approached immediately with deferential bows. "Mr. Whitmore. Ms. Carter."

Evelyn blinked in confusion—this marked her first visit, yet recognition shone in their eyes.

"Bring out Snowfall," Harrison commanded.

A groom nodded sharply before leading forth a magnificent white Arabian stallion.

Evelyn's breath hitched at the sight. "She's breathtaking!"

Harrison took the reins, guiding the horse toward her. "Your mount awaits."

Remarkably, the intelligent creature knelt gracefully before Evelyn.

"She understands commands!" Evelyn marveled, settling into the saddle with practiced ease.

The stallion rose smoothly, moving with aristocratic poise.

Behind them, another groom presented Harrison's usual mount—a sleek black Thoroughbred. Once mounted, he guided his steed beside Evelyn's, and soon both horses thundered across the manicured grounds.

Unbeknownst to them, Rosalind and Nathan had just arrived at the club's gated entrance.

After Evelyn's legal actions against Rosalind for corporate espionage against Kingsley Industries, Sterling Enterprises had paid thirty million in settlement damages.

Only then had Rosalind secured her release from incarceration.

With the Sterlings handling the fallout, she'd been installed as Nathan's personal assistant at Sterling Enterprises.

Today's agenda involved accompanying Nathan for client meetings at the equestrian club.

"Nathan, when is Mr. Blackwood arriving? This heat is unbearable. Might we wait indoors?" Rosalind complained, fanning herself with a contract folder.

Nathan's brow furrowed imperceptibly. He harbored no affection for his spoiled cousin, but family obligations compelled his tolerance. Especially considering...