Chapter 116

Evelyn offered a genuine smile. "Regardless of circumstances, I owe you for today's assistance. Should you ever require my help, don't hesitate to ask."

Victor inclined his head slightly, his expression turning serious. "Director Hawthorne isn't what he seems."

His voice dropped lower. "With decades in business, his connections and cunning surpass ordinary comprehension. You'd do well to watch your step around him."

"I'll be more vigilant," Evelyn promised.

Victor's gaze lingered on a loose strand of hair framing her face. His fingers twitched toward it instinctively.

"Nathan Sterling!" The sharp interruption froze Victor's movement mid-reach.

With practiced ease, Victor withdrew his hand, offering Evelyn an apologetic smile. "Your hair was coming undone."

Evelyn blinked in surprise, her fingers automatically checking her updo.

Nathan positioned himself between them like a human shield. "I hear congratulations are in order, Mr. Langley. The engagement to Sterling Enterprises' heiress must be thrilling news."

Victor's brow furrowed. The arranged marriage remained a private family matter - how had Nathan obtained this information?

"Premature congratulations," Victor deflected, his eyes flickering to Evelyn. "When I find someone truly worthy, you'll receive a proper invitation."

The unspoken challenge hung between them. Nathan's jaw tightened as understanding dawned - Victor's interest in Evelyn was unmistakable.

A possessive fury ignited in Nathan's chest. The thought of Victor coveting what was his made his blood boil.

Evelyn remained oblivious to Nathan's presence, having ignored him since he'd followed her outside.

"Ms. Carter, allow me to escort you," Victor offered, deliberately ignoring Nathan's glare.

"That's unnecessary, Mr. Langley. I drove myself."

"Then at least let me walk you to your car."

Evelyn nodded gratefully. "Thank you."

As they turned to leave, Nathan's hand shot out, gripping Evelyn's wrist. "We need to talk."

Evelyn recoiled as if burned. "Mr. Sterling, control yourself." Her frosty tone contrasted sharply with her earlier warmth toward Victor.

"Privately," Nathan ground out through clenched teeth.

Evelyn's refusal was immediate. "Say what you must here. I haven't time for games."

Nathan's eyes darkened dangerously. "Don't concern yourself with Director Hawthorne-"

"Funny," Evelyn cut in coldly. "You seemed quite cozy with him earlier."

The memory of Nathan's private conversation with Julian Hawthorne turned her stomach. Did he take her for a fool? After three years by his side, she'd learned all his tricks.

"Do you even hear yourself?" Nathan's control was fraying. Being misunderstood by her was unbearable.

Yet pride prevented explanations. "You think I'd collaborate with him?"

"The evidence speaks for itself." Evelyn turned decisively to Victor. "Shall we?"

Victor's lips curved in quiet triumph.

Nathan watched them walk away, his frustration exploding into a vicious punch that left the nearby pillar dented.