Chapter 260

Nathan Blackwood emerged from the study with a ghostly pallor. His chest constricted painfully, each breath a struggle against invisible chains.

The memory of Evelyn Carter burned like a fresh brand on his soul. Even the slightest recollection sent searing pain through his entire being.

What terrified him most was the undeniable truth - Evelyn had once loved him deeply.

Pride ran through Nathan's veins like molten steel. Even during childhood poverty, he'd never bowed or begged.

Their relationship had become a high-stakes poker game where dignity, not money, was the ultimate prize.

Nathan would rather die than admit defeat in this battle of wills.

"Mr. Blackwood." Oliver Sinclair approached hurriedly. "Three urgent matters require your attention."

Nathan wiped the cold sweat from his brow. "Proceed."

"First, Ms. Sterling has regained consciousness but remains unstable. She's demanding to see you immediately."

Nathan's jaw tightened. "Second matter?"

"The chairman has secured Hunter Lovett - no, Lawrence Pembroke - as Penelope's defense attorney. She'll be released by morning. Her cousin Vincent has taken full responsibility."

Nathan's eyes narrowed. "Lawrence Pembroke? The senior partner at Westridge Legal?"

Oliver nodded. "What's fascinating is that he's actually Theodore Winslow's eldest brother. The Pembrokes' third son! The legal world truly is small."

A spark of recognition flashed in Nathan's dark eyes.

Though not among Crestview's wealthiest families, the Pembrokes dominated the legal sphere. Walter Pembroke, Theodore's father, was revered as the "Scales of Justice" in political circles.

Walter's three sons were equally formidable. Lawrence never lost a case. Gregory followed his father's judicial path. And Theodore...

Theodore Winslow had graduated top of his class from Crestview Law School, the youngest ever to earn a doctorate. Yet he chose to serve as Evelyn's personal secretary, managing her schedule like some glorified butler.

Evelyn always surrounded herself with extraordinary people.

The bitter taste of jealousy flooded Nathan's mouth. "Penelope's release changes nothing. She'll never regain her board position."

"Ms. Blackwood dealt a masterstroke! She eliminated that viper in one move!" Oliver chuckled. "We've gained significant advantage thanks to her."

Nathan's expression darkened. "If you admire her so much, perhaps you should seek employment elsewhere?"

Oliver's smile vanished.

"In all my victories, I never saw you this excited. Remember whose payroll you're on."

Oliver swallowed hard.

"The third matter?"

"Ah! We've identified the man with Ms. Blackwood last night. His identity will shock you."

Nathan's grip tightened on his desk. "Who?"

"Alexander Whitmore. Youngest son of Whitmore Enterprises' chairman. Recently returned from Serenia after years abroad."

"Alexander Whitmore?" Nathan's heart lurched.

Whitmore Enterprises controlled nearly half of Crestview's commercial real estate. The business world joked that while the Blackwoods ruled the south, the Whitmores owned the north.

Two dynasties separated by Starlight River - maintaining surface civility while waging silent economic warfare for decades.