Chapter 477

Sebastian's Adam's apple bobbed as his gaze flickered under the hopeful stares of the Linton family. Finally, he lowered his lashes and swallowed his words of explanation.

"Mr. Valdemar, are you truly willing to help?"

Mr. and Mrs. Linton's eyes darted between Sebastian and Evelyn, their hope gradually fading into disappointment. Mrs. Linton's eyes reddened.

After a moment of silence, Sebastian gave a slow nod.

"Wonderful!" Mr. Linton rushed forward, his rough hands gripping Sebastian's. "Mr. Valdemar, you're our savior!"

"I'll have the specific terms drafted by my team." Sebastian subtly withdrew his hand. "You should settle in first."

"Of course, of course!"

The Lintons bowed repeatedly, pulling their daughter along. Sensing the tension between Sebastian and Evelyn, they quickly excused themselves.

"Evelyn."

The moment Evelyn stood, Sebastian seized her wrist. He forcibly interlaced their fingers, his grip unyielding.

Evelyn met his gaze in silence.

"We need to talk." His voice was deep, brooking no argument.

Her wrist ached as she struggled futilely. A vein throbbed at her temple, her eyes flashing with defiance. "I have things to attend to, Mr. Valdemar."

The air turned glacial.

"The Lintons' situation is indeed unusual—" Sebastian tried to explain.

"Your decision suffices." Evelyn's tone was icy, her brow furrowed.

"Master!" Bianca suddenly bounded around the corner, freezing at the sight of their standoff before attempting to retreat.

"Stop." Evelyn called her back. "What is it?"

"I... I mixed a new drink and wanted your opinion." Bianca hunched her shoulders nervously.

"Let's go." Evelyn wrenched her hand free and strode away without a backward glance.

Bianca offered Sebastian an apologetic smile before scurrying after Evelyn.

Sebastian massaged his temples but didn't pursue them. He turned and left the winery, his oppressive aura leaving a trail of unease.

At Valdemar Group's reception, a new intern was organizing files when she collided with an immovable figure. Looking up into Sebastian's frigid stare, her legs nearly gave out. "G-Good afternoon, CEO..."

Sebastian gave a curt nod and marched toward the elevator. Employees held their breaths in his wake.

"What's with the CEO today?" someone dared whisper once the elevator doors closed.

"Shh! Want to get fired?"

The entire afternoon passed in hushed silence at Valdemar Group. The rhythmic clatter of keyboards reached unprecedented efficiency.

"The terms are drafted." Theodore handed the documents to Sebastian.

Sebastian flipped through the pages, his expression growing colder. Just as he was about to speak, a knock interrupted.

"Mr. Valdemar," the secretary announced from outside, "Miss Olivia and young master Theodore have arrived."