Chapter 504

Evelyn Sinclair cast a fleeting glance at her, lips curling into an icy smirk.

"Content? NovelDreams Publishing 2024."

"I believe you're well aware of her actions and that my retaliation was justified. Surely you understand an apology isn't necessary?"

Victoria Ashford jerked her head up, shock and cold fury flashing in her eyes. She hadn't anticipated Evelyn's glacial response.

Penelope Ashford momentarily lost her words. She abruptly turned and struck Victoria hard across the face right before Evelyn, as if personally delivering Evelyn's vengeance.

"Look what you've done! Ms. Sinclair is furious. Do you honestly think a simple apology will suffice?"

An angry red mark bloomed instantly on Victoria's cheek. She bit her lip, eyes downcast, enduring the humiliation without protest.

Evelyn frowned. She hadn't expected Penelope to physically assault Victoria in her presence.

Penelope, consumed by rage, viciously twisted Victoria's arm and kicked her shin. "Kneel and apologize to Ms. Sinclair!"

Evelyn froze.

Even Victoria stiffened momentarily.

"What are you waiting for? You're the one who messed up - why are you acting like the victim?" Penelope pressed relentlessly.

In her mind, whatever humiliation Victoria endured was trivial if it achieved their goals and appeased Evelyn.

Victoria hesitated briefly before starting to kneel, but Evelyn stood abruptly, clearly intending to leave the lounge.

"Ms. Ashford, Sterling Enterprises isn't your personal stage for disciplining your sister. Since we have no further business, please leave."

Penelope stiffened, hastily moving to intercept her. "Ms. Sinclair, wait! I only wanted to let you vent your anger. That's all—"

Penelope was secretly stunned by Evelyn's reaction. In her social circles, publicly berating her timid sister always drew excited spectators.

Why did Evelyn seem annoyed?

"Actually, I came on behalf of my father to discuss potential collaboration," Penelope stated with sudden formality.

Evelyn paused mid-step, her expression unreadable. "Then be brief."

Penelope exhaled in relief, returning to her seat. Smoothing her hair, she flashed a bright smile. "My father mentioned wanting to collaborate after meeting you at that Costa Azul cocktail party. Unfortunately, you didn't engage much then, so he regrets not pursuing it sooner."

Evelyn's faint smile didn't reach her eyes. "Quite regrettable indeed."

Victoria stood awkwardly to the side, ignored by both women.

"So I'm here to establish preliminary collaboration terms. Ashford Group dominates the New York market - our partnership would be mutually beneficial."

Penelope had heard Reginald mention Evelyn's interest in collaboration. She assumed Evelyn would jump at the offer, but the woman remained expressionless.

"Ashford Group could exclusively distribute Sterling Enterprises' AI products and jewelry in New York. I guarantee you'd see substantial retail profits."

Evelyn chuckled lightly. "An attractive proposal. However, Wellington Group made an identical exclusive distribution offer. Their proposal is in final review and will be approved at next week's board meeting. I must decline your offer."

Penelope's face paled slightly.

Panic flickered across her features. 'So the rumors were true? Our rivals at Wellington Group moved first!'

"No!"

Victoria suddenly gasped from the sidelines.