Chapter 475

"What a shame we let such a golden opportunity slip through our fingers. I should've put my own money into it. The returns would've been spectacular," one of the board members lamented, shaking his head.

Julian Hawthorne smirked. The regret in their voices only made his satisfaction grow. Thank heavens he'd had the foresight to invest privately.

Construction on the project was already underway. The first residential units would hit the market next month. His initial investment would be repaid in no time.

"Look who just walked in," someone murmured.

All heads turned toward the entrance.

"If it isn't Ms. Carter. Shall we go greet her?" suggested Director Langley. The others nodded, falling into step behind him.

"Ms. Carter!"

Evelyn Carter froze mid-step at the sound of her name. She turned to find the board members advancing toward her, their expressions unreadable.

"How can I help you, gentlemen?"

Director Langley, leading the pack, scoffed. "Seen the headlines lately, Ms. Carter? That southside development project you vetoed? It's breaking ground as we speak."

Evelyn's face remained impassive, but her fingers tightened around her tablet. She knew exactly where this was going.

"You seem awfully invested in that project, Director Langley. Pity Kingsley Industries didn't secure a stake."

Langley's face flushed crimson. "We missed that stake because you blocked it at every turn. Tell me, Ms. Carter—does this failure reflect your capability as our CEO?"

"Absolutely," another chimed in. "Had we invested, we'd be reaping profits alongside Sterling Enterprises right now."

"And what of that 'emerging industry' you championed? Still no signs of life. Julian Hartwell remains our only noteworthy talent."

"We warned you—our company isn't built for risky ventures. Real estate was the safe bet. We'd be counting our profits by now."

The criticisms came rapid-fire, each voice sharper than the last.

Julian's eyes gleamed with triumph. "Now, now, gentlemen. Let's not gang up on Ms. Carter. Everyone makes mistakes."

The room quieted at his intervention. Smug, he stepped through the crowd toward Evelyn.

"We must show our CEO due respect. After all..." He held up four fingers, wagging them in her face.

"...you still have four months left. Try not to embarrass yourself further."

Evelyn's expression didn't flicker. Their words rolled off her like water.

Before she could respond, a smooth voice cut through the tension. "Gentlemen, forgive the interruption—but may I pose a question?"

Harrison Whitmore materialized beside her like a guardian shadow. The moment he appeared, Evelyn's shoulders relaxed imperceptibly.

"Mr. Whitmore? Of Horizon Technologies?"

"Your reputation precedes you, sir."

"Ask away, Mr. Whitmore! We're at your disposal."

Harrison moved with effortless grace, positioning himself beside Evelyn. His gaze, sharp as a blade, swept over the assembled men. "I was just wondering..."

(Word count maintained at 450+ while introducing fresh dialogue, sharper tension, and more vivid character dynamics.)