Chapter 49

"Ms. Carter, your equestrian skills are truly impressive."

Victor Langley's compliment carried genuine admiration without a trace of mockery.

Evelyn Carter glanced briefly at Nathan Sterling standing nearby before turning back to Victor. "Mr. Langley, might we find a private place to talk?"

Langley Technologies specialized in cutting-edge technological development.

Founded just five years ago, the company had already pioneered numerous advanced bionic robots, earning accolades across multiple industries.

Their latest breakthrough in nanorobot technology promised revolutionary solutions to previously unsolvable medical challenges.

This was precisely why Evelyn had prioritized securing this partnership upon assuming her new position at Kingsley Industries.

Nathan's expression darkened, his voice laced with irritation. "Langley Technologies has already signed with Sterling Enterprises. What could possibly require privacy?"

His gaze remained locked on Evelyn. From the moment she'd galloped into view, she'd commanded his complete attention.

He'd never seen her ride before. In fact, she'd never even mentioned she could.

There were still so many things he didn't know about this woman.

The Sterling-Langley partnership remained confidential, yet she'd discovered it almost immediately and now sought involvement.

The corporate landscape of Pamore was about to become considerably more... interesting.

Evelyn's eyebrows lifted slightly - she hadn't anticipated such rapid progress between the two companies. They'd finalized their agreement in mere days.

Though frustrated by her late arrival, her flawless complexion betrayed nothing. "Would Kingsley Industries be able to join this project?"

Victor chuckled, his eyes revealing nothing. "Sterling Enterprises has already provided full funding. Introducing another investor at this stage would be... complicated."

Evelyn remained composed, as if she'd expected this response.

Her voice remained measured as she continued, "Additional investment would expand the project's scope while distributing risk. Surely that's beneficial?"

"Kingsley's medical R&D division could provide invaluable support for practical nanorobot applications."

"No serious innovator would pass up such advancement opportunities."

Her confident gaze locked with Victor's.

"Mr. Langley, I urge you to reconsider."

Victor appeared swayed but deferred the decision. "Ms. Carter negotiates as skillfully as she rides. Admirable. But this decision isn't mine alone - we must consult Mr. Sterling."

Evelyn suppressed a smirk. Victor was playing them perfectly. Business was business - he wouldn't refuse additional funding and reduced risk.

But given Evelyn and Nathan's very public divorce, this business reunion promised fireworks.

If Nathan outright refused cooperation, Victor's hands would be tied.

Why not let Evelyn make her case directly?

Nathan's eyes narrowed. "I disagree."

"On what grounds?" Evelyn tapped her riding crop against the chair before sitting gracefully.

"No need."

His curt response delivered, Nathan turned to leave. Evelyn's voice stopped him cold. "Are you frightened, Mr. Sterling?"

"Preposterous. Of what?"

Evelyn approached him, lips curving. "Afraid Sterling's profits might be divided? That I'll take my share?"

"This is clearly mutually beneficial - increased profits, reduced risk. All sacrificed to Mr. Sterling's cowardice..."

She turned to Victor. "Don't you agree, Mr. Langley?"

Victor maintained his diplomatic smile, wisely avoiding entanglement in the ex-couple's sparring.

"Say what you will, but Sterling Enterprises will never partner with Kingsley Industries," Nathan stated coldly, his expression stormy.

"Could it be Mr. Sterling still has feelings for me?" Evelyn dropped her bombshell with perfect timing.