Chapter 386

Evelyn's almond-shaped eyes fluttered open, the world around her dissolving into a blur. How amusing, she thought. They believe withholding my power will make them invincible.

Theodore's shoulders slumped as he delivered the devastating news - their prized client Isabella Laurent had terminated their contract. But the real crisis lay in uncovering the mole within Monarch Grand Hotels before further damage could be done.

Nathan watched Evelyn's troubled expression with growing discomfort. Without a word, she pushed the delicate pastry box across the table and strode away, her designer heels clicking decisively against marble floors.

"Just dispose of it," Evelyn tossed over her shoulder, gesturing for Theodore to follow.

As they exited, a commanding figure entered the lobby.

Oliver observed Evelyn's retreating form with conflicted emotions. "Mr. Blackwood," he murmured, "It appears Ms. Carter will be occupied for the foreseeable future. Scheduling a meeting seems unlikely."

Nathan remained silent. Moving toward the trash bin, he retrieved the discarded box with surprising care, brushing imaginary dust from its lid.

"Sir!" Oliver protested, his usually relaxed features twisting in distaste. The thought of the formidable Nathan Blackwood rummaging through garbage was inconceivable.

Nathan's lips quirked. "I've done worse as a boy." The memory of Evelyn laboring over these pastries in her kitchen flooded him with unexpected warmth. "Let's go."

Back at Monarch Grand, Evelyn convened an emergency meeting with senior staff and wedding planners. The conference room buzzed with tension as she announced Isabella's withdrawal.

Gasps and angry murmurs erupted. One junior planner burst into tears, her months of meticulous work rendered meaningless.

Evelyn's heart ached witnessing their devastation. The financial loss meant nothing compared to her team's crushed spirits.

"This changes nothing," she declared, her melodic voice cutting through the gloom. "We proceed as planned. And the vacation bonuses I promised? Still happening." Her crescent-moon eyes sparkled with determination. "No tears, my darlings. This isn't your failure."

To her surprise, the staff unanimously voted to postpone their vacations, vowing to work harder to recoup losses.

When the room emptied, Theodore secured the door. "Ms. Carter," he whispered urgently, "Why not confront them about the mole? I could've analyzed their reactions!"

Evelyn spun her chair lazily, long legs draped over its armrest. "Oh Theodore," she sighed, "If the traitor expected this meeting, don't you think they'd have prepared impeccable poker faces?"

Her chair halted abruptly. "No, we'll let them grow complacent. Then," her eyes darkened dangerously, "we'll set the perfect trap."

"I'll review all surveillance footage near the wedding venue," Theodore offered. "And trace the leaked photos to their source."

Evelyn's crimson nails drummed against the conference table. "Excellent. Make it happen."