Chapter 293

Evelyn stood up gracefully, excusing herself to visit the restroom.

Unbeknownst to her, several pairs of watchful eyes tracked her solitary movement across the lounge.

The moment she disappeared around the corner, shadowy figures moved swiftly in her direction.

"Mr. Whitmore," the executive leaned forward, "aside from Sterling Enterprises, only Summit Corporation has the resources to handle this million-dollar venture with you and Ms. Carter. What are your thoughts?"

Harrison maintained his composed demeanor, though Summit was indeed their strongest potential partner.

"This collaboration impacts all three corporations significantly," he responded carefully. "We must proceed with utmost caution."

"After thorough due diligence, we'll develop comprehensive risk assessments before further negotiations."

His measured words revealed nothing, leaving the other party guessing.

Geoffrey Lockhart, seasoned in business dealings, recognized Harrison's strategic maneuvering.

"Naturally! Slow and steady wins the race," Geoffrey agreed. "But rest assured, Summit Corporation won't disappoint."

Their conversation continued, but Harrison's attention wandered.

His wristwatch caught his eye - Evelyn had been gone too long. Without apology, he abruptly stood and strode toward the restrooms.

Geoffrey scrambled after him. "Mr. Whitmore? Is everything alright?"

Harrison's long strides didn't slow. "Evelyn's been absent nearly twenty minutes."

Observing Harrison's tense posture, realization dawned on Geoffrey. This level of concern suggested more than professional interest.

"Don't worry," Geoffrey assured, "Our mining complex is completely secure. Perhaps Ms. Carter simply got turned around?"

Harrison didn't entertain the suggestion. His gut screamed danger.

He burst into the women's restroom without hesitation. "Evelyn? Are you here?"

Empty stalls confirmed his worst fears.

Harrison's grip on Geoffrey turned vice-like. "Are there other facilities nearby?"

"None closer than this," Geoffrey admitted, forehead beading with sweat. "She couldn't have just vanished..."

Harrison's phone was already at his ear. "Lock down every exit. No one enters or leaves until we find her. Tear this place apart if necessary."

Geoffrey mobilized his own security team. "Find Ms. Carter immediately! Search every inch of the property!"

As men scattered in all directions, Geoffrey wiped his damp palms. This security breach could cost him everything.

"Mr. Whitmore, I'm certain-"

Harrison cut him off with a glare, already moving to personally join the search.

One agonizing hour later, the sprawling mining complex had yielded no trace of Evelyn.

Geoffrey's confidence wavered. "We've checked everywhere... perhaps she left voluntarily?"

Harrison ignored the suggestion, forcing himself to think clearly despite the panic clawing at his chest.