Chapter 537

The office fell into heavy silence.

Nathan Blackwood lifted his gaze to meet Dominic Kingsley's bewildered stare.

"I've already conducted thorough investigations on that company." Nathan's voice cut through the tension. "They're backed by Pacifica's political elite, with shareholders spanning global business leaders."

His fingers tapped the mahogany desk. "Don't engage them directly. And keep Evelyn out of this. I'll handle it personally."

Dominic's expression darkened instantly.

For several seconds, neither man spoke. Finally, Dominic broke the silence. "This rival firm has formidable momentum and complex funding sources. Yet you dismiss them so easily?" His voice carried an edge of disbelief.

Having worked with Nathan for years, Dominic knew his capabilities ran deeper than media portrayals. Nathan's investments in Kingsley Tech had begun as mere interest in Dominic's resilient R&D team and their groundbreaking innovations.

Initially, Nathan had simply observed Kingsley Tech's growth potential. What surprised Dominic was discovering Nathan had simultaneously invested in their direct competitor.

Through brutal corporate battles, Kingsley Tech emerged victorious - a testament to Dominic's leadership. This journey had given Dominic rare insight into Nathan's strategic mind.

They'd fought side by side in cutthroat business wars, where Nathan's ability to discard prejudices and adapt strategies placed him leagues ahead. His influence extended internationally - making his apparent disregard for Pacifica Tech's rapid advancement inexplicable.

More puzzling was Nathan's insistence on keeping Evelyn uninformed. What was he hiding?

Dominic's probing stare made Nathan's expression turn glacial. An oppressive aura enveloped him.

"You think money motivates me?" Nathan's laugh held no warmth. "If I wanted to invest abroad, Kingsley Tech wouldn't exist today." His words carried the finality of a guillotine drop.

The temperature between them plummeted. Dominic suddenly remembered Nathan's military background - making such suspicions a grave insult. How had he dared question Nathan's integrity?

Regret flooded Dominic instantly. Before Harrison could usher him out, Dominic managed a stiff apology. "My mistake, Nathan. That was... beneath us."

Alone in his office, Nathan's gaze turned distant. Dominic was an exceptional CEO and researcher - their partnership shouldn't fracture over words. Yet the chill remained.

His thoughts drifted to Evelyn. She wouldn't have doubted him. Her loyalty to principles and people she trusted was absolute. The realization made his chest tighten.

Days without seeing her had become unbearable. This craving felt like addiction - one he restrained, fearing to overwhelm her. Recent circumstances kept them apart. Perhaps he needed to... engineer a meeting.

When Harrison entered with reports, he hesitated at Nathan's stormy expression. Finishing his presentation with trepidation, Harrison braced for reprimand.

Instead, Nathan stroked his chin thoughtfully. "What's Evelyn Sinclair been occupied with lately?" The question caught Harrison off-guard, his relief palpable.