Chapter 712

Evelyn sighed as she climbed the stairs, her heart heavy with pity for Donovan.

Bennett worked with remarkable efficiency. After receiving Evelyn's late-night instructions, he had all the documents regarding Zenith Corp's Sandford project on her desk by morning.

She raised an eyebrow when she saw the stack of files. "Did you pull an all-nighter?"

Bennett smirked. "This information isn't exactly classified. Anyone in Sandford could get their hands on it."

Evelyn nodded, lifting her coffee cup for a sip. But when she flipped open the first page, she nearly choked.

She'd assumed the project's losses stemmed from mismanagement. She never expected this level of corruption.

Zenith Corp hadn't turned a profit in years. Hundreds of employees were milking unemployment benefits while doing the company's dirty work.

This failing project had become Zenith's sole lifeline. Due to reckless practices, multiple accidents had occurred.

Located in Sandford's city center, this urban development was crucial for the city's expansion. Zenith had deliberately stalled progress to extort exorbitant compensation from unsuspecting investors.

The truth was chilling—Zenith's entire workforce were leeches bleeding the project dry.

Bennett cleared his throat. "President Sinclair, Zenith's reached the end of its rope. The company's leadership is corrupt. Funds disappear into their pockets, leaving scraps behind. The books show nothing—it's a black hole."

Evelyn pressed her lips together, silent for a moment. "We need to audit their accounts first."

"But—"

She inhaled sharply and reached for her phone.

"I'll contact Mr. Whitmore and have Jonathan Reeves investigate immediately."

With Leonard Whitmore's authorization, their audit would be legitimate.

As expected, Mr. Whitmore agreed instantly. Faced with such blatant corruption, he was eager to uncover the truth and reclaim control of the project.

That afternoon, Jonathan called from Sandford.

"Ms. Sinclair, Zenith's employees are closing ranks. They refuse to cooperate. The books appear clean—these people are cunning."

Evelyn hadn't anticipated such unity from a bankrupt company.

She paused. "Stay put. I'm coming."

Jonathan hesitated. "Ms. Sinclair, you should bring backup. The people here are... aggressive."

He'd chosen his words carefully. In reality, Zenith's employees were ruthless, undisciplined, and fearless. Jonathan had been intimidated by their arrogance within hours of arriving.

Evelyn hadn't expected this level of hostility but remained unfazed.

Just as she prepared to leave, Nathan Blackwood called.

Evelyn frowned. Now wasn't the time for distractions.

"Hello?"

"Are you going to Sandford?" Nathan's voice held unmistakable tension.

Her brows furrowed. How did he know?

"Yes."

So what if he did?

"Evelyn, do you realize how dangerous that is? You have people for this—why go yourself? What if something happens?" His tone turned icy.

She scoffed. "Mr. Blackwood, I appreciate your concern, but it's hardly a den of lions."

"Evelyn—"

Nathan's voice softened. "I know you're targeting that company, but those people are dangerous. They won't care who you are."