Chapter 361

Christopher dropped the bombshell question right at their first meeting. It completely blindsided Jonathan.

The unexpected interrogation left him speechless for a moment.

He fumbled for words before answering, "I own a creative agency. Things are stable currently, though my annual income hasn't reached that benchmark yet. But I'm confident I'll achieve that goal soon."

With the Montgomery brothers' potential investment, hitting seven figures would be effortless.

Christopher arched an eyebrow, his lips curling in amusement. "Soon? Who exactly are you making these empty pledges to, man? You can approach my sister after you've actually accomplished something. Right now, you're not even in the running."

His next words cut like a knife. "How dare you confess to her when you can't meet basic standards?" The brutal honesty stung.

Flustered, Jonathan turned to Julian. "My feelings for Evelyn are genuine. I'd lay down my life for her. I proved that during her kidnapping incident."

"Money isn't everything - sincerity matters more. As her brothers, surely you want her to marry for love, not financial status?" His voice carried desperate conviction.

Christopher shot Julian a questioning look. "This guy helped during that situation?"

Julian gave a confirming nod. "Yes, during the abduction. He owns the agency where Evelyn worked."

Christopher's piercing gaze returned to Jonathan. "Ah, so it was you."

Jonathan felt a surge of relief for having taken that injury. "Yes, that was me. When Evelyn's in danger, I'll pay any price - even my life."

"We do owe you for that," Julian admitted, visibly softening.

But Christopher remained unmoved. "Don't play games with me. You charged in recklessly and got knocked out instantly. They still took Evelyn. Could you have actually rescued her?" His counterattack was merciless.

Biting back his irritation, Jonathan maintained composure. "It was an ambush. I never expected such bold criminal activity in the city center."

"I'll take self-defense training to protect Evelyn properly. That mistake won't happen again!" His promise rang with determination.

Christopher scoffed openly. "More empty words. You should quit business altogether. Someone who specializes in broken promises has no place in entrepreneurship." The contempt was palpable.

He continued, looking down his nose at Jonathan. "Know why you keep making pledges you can't keep? Because you lack the capability to fulfill them. This act won't work on us."

Cold sweat broke across Jonathan's brow. Under Christopher's penetrating stare, he felt his hidden cowardice exposed, unable to meet those discerning eyes.

It was as if the man could see straight through his carefully constructed facade!

Noticing Christopher's excessive harshness, Julian cleared his throat. "That's enough. We can't disregard Jonathan's assistance during the crisis."

Hope flickered in Jonathan's eyes again. "While my help was limited, my feelings for Evelyn are completely real."

"Your contribution was indeed minor, but your intentions were good. That said," Julian conceded, "my brother makes a valid point."

"Jonathan, if you're serious about Evelyn, demonstrate real commitment, not hollow promises. Actions speak louder than words," Julian concluded firmly.

Jonathan nodded vigorously. "Understood. I'll prove myself - you have my word."

At that precise moment, Evelyn arrived at the gates. Her steps faltered when she spotted the trio - and Jonathan's unexpected presence. Her expression darkened, wary of whatever scheme he might be plotting now.

Christopher waved casually. "Evelyn! Over here!"

As she approached, her gaze landed on the ostentatious bouquet of red roses. A wave of revulsion washed over her.