Chapter 166

"Nathan, are these antiques also fakes?"

Nathan Aldridge instantly regretted his words, slapping his own mouth in frustration.

Evelyn Roland glanced up. "Did you sign the contract?"

Nathan shook his head. "Old Harrison is stubborn. He's hoarding the medicinal herbs we need but refuses to sell at market price."

Evelyn's brow furrowed slightly.

This was unexpected.

Julian Roscente interjected nervously, "Evelyn, are these really counterfeit too?"

She gave him a cool look. "I suggest you investigate the forgery case from a year ago. Consider this a friendly reminder."

Without another word, she turned to leave.

Nathan hurried after her, thrusting a bouquet of crimson roses into her hands. "A grown man carrying flowers looks ridiculous."

Evelyn lowered her head to inhale their fragrance.

The scent softened her expression.

Nathan stared, mesmerized. "No flower could ever compare to you."

A faint smile touched her lips.

She did adore the bold beauty of crimson roses.

Nathan sighed. "Old Harrison doubled his price. I couldn't talk him down."

Evelyn remained composed. "He'll agree eventually. If not, we'll find another supplier."

A thought struck her. "Doesn't Harrison love tea? He visits that teahouse on Central Avenue every noon."

Nathan nodded. "Exactly. He even served me Da Hong Pao earlier. Pity I can't appreciate fine tea—I just pretended to."

A sly glint flashed in Evelyn's eyes. "Grandfather Frederick has a collection of premium Da Hong Pao. We'll host a tea exhibition and invite Harrison."

Nathan's face lit up with realization. "Appeal to his interests!"

Evelyn scoffed. "Took you long enough."

He chuckled awkwardly. "Spending a year at Sterling Manor spoiled me. I almost forgot how to negotiate."

Her gaze turned knowing. "Reputation and wealth aren't everything. You must target their weakness."

She paused. "Though Grandfather's tea collection..."

Nathan hesitated. "Will the old man really part with it?"