Chapter 437

The conference room doors swung open dramatically.

Julian Hartwell strode in, his tailored navy suit accentuating his broad shoulders. His agent followed half a step behind. The collective gasp from the board members was audible.

"Why is Julian Hartwell here?"

Murmurs spread like wildfire. The youngest Kingsley brother was a global superstar with a social media following that could crash servers with a single post. His presence here made no sense.

Samuel Walker's face darkened instantly. His fingers tightened around his pen until his knuckles turned white. This wasn't part of the plan.

Julian moved with effortless grace toward Evelyn Carter. Their shared smile spoke volumes. The warmth in his eyes when he looked at his sister was unmistakable.

"Julian."

He acknowledged her with a subtle nod before turning to address the room. "Good afternoon, everyone." His voice carried the smooth confidence of someone used to commanding attention.

One of the senior executives couldn't contain his curiosity. "Mr. Hartwell, with all due respect, you've never shown interest in Kingsley Industries' affairs before. What brings you here today?"

Julian's lips quirked. "Excellent question. I understand Kingsley is launching an entertainment division today." He paused for effect. "Consider me your first signed artist."

The room erupted.

Julian Hartwell wasn't just any celebrity. He was a triple threat - actor, singer, and producer with box office records to his name. His endorsement alone could make or break brands.

"You can't be serious."

"Deadly serious." Julian shrugged. "I've maintained creative control over my career until now. Signing with Kingsley represents a strategic shift for me." His gaze swept the room. "Assuming, of course, the division gets approved today."

The implication hung heavy in the air.

Julian hadn't come to join Kingsley Industries. He'd come to back Evelyn's bold new venture into digital media.

With his star power behind it, the new division wouldn't just succeed - it would dominate.

The mood in the room shifted palpably.

"This media initiative shows remarkable foresight. Digital content is where the market's heading."

"We'd be fools not to capitalize on this emerging sector."

"Traditional models are becoming obsolete. This is exactly the kind of innovation we need."

"Ms. Carter's proposal has my full support. With Mr. Hartwell onboard, success is practically guaranteed."

Samuel's face flushed crimson with suppressed rage. His carefully laid plans were unraveling before his eyes.

Evelyn had played her trump card - and it was a royal flush. Julian's surprise appearance hadn't just swayed the board; it had cemented her position beyond challenge.