Chapter 209

Anna Ross was caught between the two men, trapped and helpless.

Whenever these two met, the air instantly crackled with tension.

Lucas Evans withdrew his gaze, focusing back on Anna. His tone was firm. "This project is critical. Changing personnel now will disrupt the timeline. I'm sure Mr. Sinclair wouldn't want the company's interests harmed?"

"You worry too much." Adrian Sinclair pulled Anna to his side, his movement leaving no room for refusal. "Such a minor loss means nothing to me."

She stood rigid, afraid to move. In that moment, she felt like an object being fought over, stripped of all autonomy.

Before Lucas could respond, Adrian toyed with a strand of her hair. His voice was lazy yet carried undeniable pressure. "Final warning. She will no longer handle this project. If you insist, consider our cooperation terminated."

Lucas clenched his fists, his eyes burning with fury at the hand touching her.

Seeing this, Anna stepped forward. She looked at Lucas. "Someone more suitable will take over the project. This is best for everyone."

She desperately wanted out of this conflict. Moreover, Adrian had explicitly warned her to stay away from Lucas. If anything else happened, he would not let it slide.

Adrian chuckled softly, pleased with her stance.

Lucas stared at her in disbelief, convinced she was being coerced. The instigator was clearly the arrogant man beside her.

"Anna, are you..." He tried to persuade her, but was interrupted by the hurried arrival of Chloe Valentine. She had seen the trio from afar and came to investigate.

Especially Anna, daring to openly cling to Adrian Sinclair. It was disgusting.

She forced a sweet smile, feigning innocence. "What are you all discussing? It seems quite lively."

She positioned herself next to Adrian, deliberately separating him from Anna. This gave Lucas an opening. He reached for Anna, but she swiftly avoided his grasp.

Adrian raised an eyebrow and顺势 gave an order. "Chloe, you will take over this project."

Though confused, Chloe, wanting to maintain her obedient image—especially in front of Anna—immediately agreed. "Of course. I'll do whatever you say."

Lucas started to object, but Anna stopped him with a look. He suppressed his displeasure and reluctantly agreed.

Looking down at her, he suddenly realized his persistence might only bring her harm.

"I have matters to attend to. See yourself out, Mr. Evans." Adrian glanced at them both before turning to leave. Chloe quickly followed, her steps light.

Lucas adjusted his mood, forcing a smile. "Anna, have dinner with me after work?"

She looked up and met Adrian's icy gaze from across the room. A shiver ran down her spine. His warning echoed in her mind, chilling her to the core.

Finally, she refused softly. "No, thank you. I have to go to my job at the bar. I should get going."

Lucas watched her hurried departure, his heart aching. But he wouldn't give up. For these feelings, he had to persevere.

Anna, one day you will understand my heart.

He stood there, watching until her figure disappeared around the corner, before leaving dejectedly.