Chapter 110

The email notification pinged on Evelyn's phone.

"The share transfer agreement has been distributed to all board members electronically." Dominic's message appeared crisp on her screen.

"This year's annual meeting will take place at Kingsley Tower, where your official appointment as CEO will be announced."

Though Dominic had declared this publicly at Leonard's birthday gala, Evelyn still felt the crushing weight of inheriting Kingsley Industries.

"Isn't this too abrupt? I've barely settled into my executive role," Evelyn fretted, twisting her pearl bracelet. "There are entire divisions I haven't even reviewed yet."

Dominic's laughter rumbled through the phone. "You've been preparing for this since you negotiated our family out of that hostile takeover. The board respects you, little sister."

A hesitant pause. "But—"

She could practically see him running fingers through his dark hair. "Evelyn Carter Kingsley, this empire was built for you. Stop overthinking."

His next words wrapped around her like a cashmere shawl. "Every Kingsley stands behind you. No challenge is yours to face alone."

Warmth flooded her chest. "I won't let you down."

"Never crossed my mind," Dominic said softly before ending the call.

Back in Kingsley Tower's executive suite, Maxwell Donovan briefed Evelyn on the upcoming meeting details. The polished mahogany conference table gleamed under recessed lighting as board members filed in precisely at 9:03 AM.

Whispers died when Evelyn entered in a tailored navy Stella McCartney suit. The diamond studs at her ears caught the light as she took the head seat.

Maxwell cleared his throat. "Before we review Q3 projections, I have a critical announcement." He tapped his tablet. "Per the executed transfer documents, Dominic Kingsley has relinquished all voting shares to Evelyn Kingsley."

The room erupted.

Julian Hawthorne, the longest-serving director, raised a manicured hand. "With respect, this seems... precipitous." His gaze swept the table, gathering nods. "While Ms. Kingsley's lineage is impeccable, corporate leadership requires proven—"

"—experience I lack?" Evelyn finished smoothly. She stood, palms flat on the table. "Kingsley Industries isn't just our family legacy. It's the livelihood of thirty-seven thousand employees."

Silence.

Julian's smile didn't reach his eyes. "Lofty words, Ms. Kingsley. But we answer to shareholders expecting twelve percent growth." He leaned forward. "Unless you're prepared to stake something tangible..."

Maxwell started to interject. Evelyn silenced him with a glance.

The antique clock ticked three times before she spoke.