Chapter 446

Nathan gave a slight nod, his voice cool and detached. "Diana, the real estate market is unstable right now. Major policy changes are coming. Your impulsive investment could leave you financially stranded."

Juliette's lips curved into a wider smile, though her eyes remained icy.

She tilted her head mockingly. "Nathan, is this really about the market? Or are you just protecting Evelyn? Afraid I'll build Sterling Enterprises into something that could rival Kingsley Industries?"

His expression didn't flicker. "You could never be her equal."

Juliette's face darkened, but before she could retort, Nathan produced a thick folder from his briefcase.

"At least she doesn't resort to petty schemes like you."

He shoved the documents across the table, the sharp edge catching her wrist. She winced.

"The leaked photos. The online smear campaign. All your doing, wasn't it?"

Juliette hadn't expected him to uncover her involvement so quickly, but she maintained her composure.

She knew he wouldn't act against her - not with Eleanor's influence protecting her.

"Did you come here just to accuse me? Fine, I did it. But Eleanor was involved too. Would the great Nathan Sterling really go against his own family for a woman?"

Nathan's eyes darkened dangerously. The silence stretched between them.

Juliette scoffed and gathered her purse. "Since you won't do anything, don't waste my time. I have government officials waiting to finalize our contract."

As she turned to leave, Nathan's voice stopped her cold.

"Eleanor may have secured that land deal for you." His lips curled into a humorless smile. "But I can make it disappear just as easily. Don't you think?"

Panic flashed across Juliette's face. "Nathan, we've known each other for years. Must you be so cruel?"

He shook his head, almost regretful. "I came to warn you as a courtesy. But you're determined to ignore reason. Consider the Blackwell family's debt to the Delaneys repaid. We're even now."

"Nathan!"

He was already walking away. "Think carefully about your next moves, Ms. Delaney."

Juliette watched his retreating figure, her nails digging into her palms. She refused to believe his warnings - convinced this was just another ploy to protect Evelyn.

"You'll regret this," she hissed under her breath. "I'll make sure Evelyn Carter crawls at my feet!"

Evelyn woke with a start, sneezing violently several times in succession. Rubbing her nose, she checked her temperature.

"No fever," she murmured. "Must be allergies."

Marien appeared in the doorway, concern etching her features. "Ms. Carter, are you unwell?"

Evelyn waved her off. "Just the season changing. Nothing serious."

"Let me prepare some ginger tea for you."

After Marien left, Evelyn reached for her phone. The screen remained stubbornly blank - no new messages. A familiar ache settled in her chest as she stared at the empty notification panel.