Chapter 465

"His intentions remain unclear at this point. Not only has he secured loans from the black market, but he's also leveraged all his property holdings with the bank."

"This suggests he's planning something significant."

"Ms. Carter, could his actions be directed toward us?"

"Monitor his every move closely and update me immediately if anything develops."

"Understood, Ms. Carter."

Maxwell had barely taken two steps toward the exit when Evelyn called him back. "Before you go - does Julian have any events scheduled today?"

"Byte Technologies is hosting a major promotional event at Times Square Mall today. All our signed artists will be in attendance."

"I see," Evelyn murmured. That explained Julian's absence since morning. "Very well. You may go."

"Yes, Ms. Carter."

As Maxwell departed, Evelyn returned to her paperwork. Moments later, her private line rang.

"Evelyn, do you know the exact location of Julian's event today?" Sophia's voice carried urgent tension through the receiver.

Evelyn's brow furrowed. "What's happened?"

"Our assistant made a critical error during the morning rush," Sophia explained hurriedly. "She accidentally packed the unreleased jewelry collection for today's event. These pieces are under strict embargo until their official launch date."

"To make matters worse, the assistant isn't answering her phone, and Julian's manager seems to have vanished too."

Desperation laced Sophia's words as she continued, "That's why I'm calling you directly."

Evelyn's response came swiftly. "Don't panic. Julian and the team are at Times Square Mall. If you leave now, you should intercept them. I'll attempt contact as well."

"I'm heading there immediately."

The moment the call ended, Evelyn dialed Julian's private number. Despite multiple attempts, the line remained unanswered.

This was highly unusual. Julian never went anywhere without his personal phone. Even during events, his manager always kept it within reach. What could possibly be happening today?

Meanwhile, in a secluded backstage dressing room, Julian stood ready for his appearance, awaiting final approval.

His manager scrutinized him before suddenly exclaiming, "Julian! Where's your necklace?"

Julian's hand flew to his bare neck. "Hasn't the sponsor delivered the jewelry yet?"

The manager slapped his forehead. "My oversight! Wait here while I contact them."

Julian nodded as his manager hurried out. The sudden crash of falling objects from the adjacent room startled him to his feet.

He'd barely stepped into the hallway when Katherine's shrill voice pierced the air. "This is unacceptable incompetence! There's nothing wrong with these pieces - why can't I wear them?"

"My deepest apologies, Ms. Whitaker," a trembling voice replied. "These are prototype designs from our upcoming collection. They cannot be publicly displayed before the official launch. Please exchange them for the approved set."

Katherine's disdainful gaze swept over the replacement necklace being offered. The design paled in comparison to the exquisite piece currently adorning her neck.

"Do you take me for a fool?" She snatched the inferior necklace and flung it to the ground. "You expect me to wear this trash?"