Chapter 158

Evelyn's fingers trembled slightly as she read the embossed lettering on the card: "CEO of Keystone Construction."

The name triggered a memory. She'd accompanied Nathaniel to deliver contracts to this very company months ago.

She distinctly recalled the younger Stewart pitching an ambitious golf resort project to Nathaniel.

Nathaniel had rejected the proposal outright.

Yet somehow, the development had proceeded regardless.

Evelyn remembered Nathaniel mentioning environmental concerns about that particular parcel of land.

"Ms. Carter, these blueprints are quite impressive," Reginald commented, leaning back in his leather chair.

"Tell me," he continued, his gaze lingering too long, "what does a beautiful woman like you do for fun?"

Evelyn's instincts screamed danger.

She rose abruptly. "Mr. Stewart, we can revisit the designs once you've made your selection."

The door clicked shut before she reached it. Her breath hitched as she whirled to face him. "What's the meaning of this?"

Reginald smirked. "Women of your caliber always have a price. With your skills, I'm prepared to be... generous."

"All I require is satisfactory performance. Time is money, after all."

Evelyn's face turned to stone. "Not interested."

"Don't play coy," Reginald warned as Anthony advanced toward her.

She fumbled for her phone. "One more step and I'm calling the police."

Anthony snatched the device from her grasp.

"Take her upstairs," Reginald ordered coldly. "Restrain her."

Evelyn drew a steadying breath. "You know Nathaniel Whitmore, don't you?"

Reginald's eyes narrowed. "What of it?"

"About a year ago," Evelyn continued, "your son approached him about investing in that golf course."

"The project was rejected due to soil contamination concerns. Industrial waste makes terrible resort foundations."

Reginald exchanged a glance with Anthony. "You're remarkably well-informed, Ms. Carter."

"What's your relationship with Whitmore?" he demanded.

"That's irrelevant," Evelyn countered. "What matters is that contaminated land is now a functioning resort."

"Should environmental violations surface, Keystone would face devastating lawsuits. Given your company's recent financial struggles..."

She let the implication hang, channeling Nathaniel's negotiating tactics despite her pounding heart.

Her knowledge of Keystone's troubles came secondhand from Nathaniel's remarks.

Sometimes strategic omissions proved most effective.

The office air grew thick with tension.

Evelyn squared her shoulders, meeting Reginald's gaze unflinchingly.

Finally, he broke the silence. "Explain your connection to Whitmore."

A knowing smile touched Evelyn's lips. "Nathaniel insisted our relationship remain confidential."

"But feel free to call him yourself. His number's in my contacts."