Chapter 438

The atmosphere in the boardroom shifted instantly.

One by one, the executives began nodding in agreement with Evelyn's proposal.

"Mr. Hawthorne, what's your stance on this matter?" Evelyn turned her piercing gaze toward Julian.

Julian forced a tight-lipped smile, his fingers drumming nervously on the table. "Given the overwhelming support for your proposal, Ms. Carter, I can hardly object. The talent division seems like a sound investment."

Evelyn's lips curved in satisfaction. "Excellent. Let's proceed with a formal vote then."

Glances were exchanged across the mahogany table before hands started rising in unanimous approval.

Even Julian couldn't resist adding some levity. "As a minor shareholder of Kingsley Industries, I believe my vote counts as well." With a dramatic flourish, he raised his hand.

The final tally exceeded all expectations.

Evelyn beamed. "With more than two-thirds majority approval, the talent division is officially approved. Kingsley Industries enters a new era today."

Applause erupted through the conference room.

As attendees filed out, Julian caught Evelyn's arm playfully. "So, Evie, how'd I do?" His eyes sparkled with mischief.

Evelyn gave him an appreciative smile. "Brilliantly. You silenced those stuffy old board members. Without you, this never would've passed so smoothly."

"Does that make me your knight in shining armor?"

Laughing, Evelyn linked arms with him. "Absolutely. But Julian, are you truly serious about signing your management contract with us?"

He tapped her forehead affectionately. "Do I ever joke about business matters?"

Evelyn rubbed her head in mock protest. "Ouch! Though I suppose it's worth the pain."

"You ridiculous girl. Just remember - I expect VIP treatment. After all, I'm currently your only A-list artist."

"Of course!" Evelyn nodded vigorously. "You'll be our crown jewel. Every resource at our disposal will be dedicated to you. The entire company will revolve around your career."

Julian chuckled, feigning reluctance. "Well, if I'm going to be this spoiled, I suppose I can't refuse."

"Thank you, Julian."

"Don't be silly. Being needed by you... it's rather flattering actually."

For Julian, this was simply business - but helping Evelyn in the process made it all the sweeter.

Meanwhile, across town, Juliette and Eleanor were poring over freshly developed photographs.

"Are these all we have?" Juliette flipped through the stack with a frown. "The quality is decent, but they're not particularly damning."

Harrison's presence in several shots complicated matters - clearly indicating Evelyn and Wesley hadn't been alone at the hotel.

The situation wasn't nearly as scandalous as they'd hoped.

Eleanor wrung her hands. "Was this entire operation pointless?"

Just then, Juliette's fingers stilled on one particular shot - a perfectly framed image of Evelyn and Wesley that, at first glance, appeared quite intimate.

A slow smile spread across Juliette's face. "Pointless? Hardly, Mrs. Blackwell."