Chapter 459

The assistant swiftly passed the documents to Julian. "I've located it, Mr. Hawthorne. The Eastwood property was acquired by the newly formed Blackwood Group."

"Interesting. A startup company daring enough to snatch such prime real estate?" Julian's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "What else did you uncover?"

"Mr. Hawthorne, Blackwood Group isn't your average new company. Our research indicates connections to the former Delaney Corporation and the Sterling family."

"The Sterlings? Nathan Sterling?"

"Precisely!"

"I knew it. Even Nathan recognizes this land's value. Evelyn truly lacks vision for rejecting this opportunity."

"Absolutely, Mr. Hawthorne! Ms. Carter seems to have miscalculated this time. Though Blackwood Group secured the property, it's beyond their capacity to develop alone."

Julian chuckled darkly. "This presents the perfect opening. Contact Blackwood Group's owner immediately."

"No need, Mr. Hawthorne. I've already reached out to Ms. Blackwood. They're eager to collaborate with us."

Julian gave his assistant an approving pat on the shoulder. "Excellent work! Your initiative continues to impress me."

The assistant smirked knowingly. "I learned from the best. Working under you has been... enlightening."

"Good. Let's not waste this opportunity. Arrange the meeting with Ms. Blackwood immediately. I want to understand her true intentions."

"Right away, sir."

Within the hour, everything was set.

———

Later that afternoon, Julian's chauffeur drove him to the designated upscale café.

Juliette Blackwood arrived early, sipping her latte while reviewing notes. This meeting with Kingsley Industries' executive thrilled her.

She'd done her homework on Julian Hawthorne. His influential position at Kingsley Industries and his ongoing feud with Evelyn Carter were well-documented.

After all, the enemy of my enemy...

A victorious smile played on her lips as she envisioned their alliance.

Julian arrived precisely on time. "Ms. Blackwood, I presume?"

Juliette looked up slowly, setting down her cup with deliberate grace before extending her hand. "Mr. Hawthorne. Your reputation precedes you."

Their handshake lingered a moment too long, both recognizing a kindred spirit.

"Please, sit."

"Such youth yet such boldness, Ms. Blackwood. Acquiring Eastwood demonstrates remarkable... ambition."

"You flatter me, Mr. Hawthorne. When one learns from industry pioneers like yourself, success becomes inevitable."

Julian's eyes narrowed appreciatively. "Let's dispense with formalities. Shall we discuss Eastwood?"

Juliette maintained an innocent expression. "Oh? You're interested in that property too?"

A seasoned player, Julian recognized her feigned ignorance immediately. This only intrigued him further.

The game had begun.