Chapter 27

Evelyn let out a sharp, mocking laugh that echoed through her office. Her assistant, standing nearby, forced an awkward chuckle in response.

Nathan's brows knitted together in frustration.

"Flattered by your admiration, Mr. Blackwood," Evelyn said, swirling her wine glass. "But there's no need for false modesty. I could produce a hundred such calligraphy pieces before lunch. Consider it a parting gift."

Her lips curled into a smirk as Nathan's jaw tightened visibly. His hands clenched at his sides.

"Let's not pretend this is a social call, Mr. Blackwood," Evelyn continued, setting down her glass with deliberate precision. "Why don't we skip the pleasantries and get to why you're really here?"

Nathan exhaled through his nose. "Very well. I'm here regarding your... dispute with Sterling Enterprises. I'm proposing we reach a mutually beneficial arrangement."

His voice carried the weight of authority, his piercing gaze attempting to intimidate. "Surely Monarch Group stands to gain more from an alliance with Blackwood Industries in Crestview."

Evelyn's laughter rang out again, sharp as broken glass. "Dispute? Oh Nathan, you misunderstand. I'm simply exposing fraudulent business practices to protect others from being swindled like we were. Our hotels purchased defective products and were denied justice."

"Perfection is impossible in manufacturing," Nathan countered. "Even luxury car brands issue recalls. Return the defective items - there's no need to publicly smear Sterling's reputation. Bankrupting a mid-sized company through Monarch's influence will damage your own standing in Crestview."

Evelyn's eyes narrowed dangerously as she crushed a macaron between her fingers, the crumbs scattering across her desk.

She recognized the veiled threat - if she didn't back down, Blackwood Industries would block Monarch's expansion in Crestview.

The audacity made her blood boil. Did he truly think she'd cower before his empty threats?

"How touching," she purred, "to see you championing your fiancée's family. But business and sentiment make poor bedfellows, Nathan. I won't spare Sterling Enterprises, no matter how romantic your motivations."

Nathan's face darkened, but he had no rebuttal. This wasn't his fight - he was only here for Victoria.

Evelyn watched with satisfaction as discomfort flickered across his usually impassive features.

"Then we have nothing further to discuss," Nathan said stiffly, rising to his feet. Even in defeat, his posture remained rigid with pride. "I'll take my leave."

As he turned, a recorded voice filled the room:

"Ms. Carter, please! I was greedy - Luxe Furnishings approached me first! Damian Sterling proposed the scheme! I thought all mattresses were essentially the same, I didn't realize-"

Nathan whirled around, his face draining of color. The damning confession continued to play as Evelyn crossed her legs, enjoying his visible shock.

"Monarch Group happily supports legitimate small businesses," she said sweetly. "But we root out fraudsters who threaten our interests. Consider your warning noted, Mr. Blackwood. I'll see you across the negotiating table."

Nathan left in stunned silence, every muscle taut with tension.

Outside, Oliver rushed forward. "Sir? What happened? Did she agree?"

Nathan barely registered the questions. His head pounded as Evelyn's words echoed relentlessly.

He'd been so certain the Sterlings were innocent victims of Evelyn's vendetta against him. Instead, he'd been defending their corruption.

Wrenching his tie loose brought no relief. Then - the sharp click of heels behind him.

That distinctive, confident rhythm - was it Evelyn?

His heart lurched as he spun around, but the hallway stood empty.