Chapter 805

The Sterling family would never allow Evelyn Sinclair to attend a social gathering while she was still recovering.

Besides, she didn’t need to.

Harrison nodded. "I heard the other party is a woman who specifically requested Ms. Sterling. I’ve already done a background check on Pacific Crest Enterprises."

Nathan Blackwood’s expression darkened. "Did your people see her?"

Harrison hesitated. "N-No..."

Nathan gave him a cold look before grabbing his jacket and striding out.

Harrison shot Theodore a nervous glance. Understanding immediately, Theodore followed.

"Mr. Blackwood, wait for me!"

Phantom Lounge

Though the meeting was supposed to be one-on-one, Evelyn brought Bennett as a precaution.

When they arrived at the private room, Bennett opened the door for her.

Evelyn stepped inside—and froze.

Reginald Blackwood sat there, waiting.

She arched a brow, composed herself, and walked in with measured steps. "Chairman Blackwood, are you the new CEO of Pacific Crest Enterprises?"

She had been expecting the CEO of Pacific Crest, not Nathan’s grandfather.

Reginald smiled. "I borrowed her name to invite you. Otherwise, would you have come?"

Evelyn’s lips curled slightly, but she didn’t react beyond that.

She took the seat across from him.

Now free of her wheelchair, she walked with only a cane, her movements graceful. Her recovery had been swift—far quicker than Nathan’s lingering frailty.

"Take a look. What would you like to order?"

Reginald studied her with narrowed eyes. Evelyn ignored the menu.

"No need. I doubt you went through all this trouble just to share a meal."

His expression stiffened briefly before smoothing back into practiced calm.

His gaze flicked to Bennett behind her. "There’s something I’d like to discuss... privately."

Bennett didn’t move, waiting for Evelyn’s cue.

She smiled. "Isn’t this private enough? Bennett is my person. If you’re uncomfortable, then don’t say it. Honestly, I’m not particularly interested in whatever you have to say."

Anyone with half a brain knew about the power struggle within Blackwood Industries. What else could Reginald want from her now?

He had already called William Sterling, but William hadn’t even bothered to humor him, bluntly refusing to get involved.

Evelyn held the real power in Sterling Enterprises.

Whether personally or professionally, she was the perfect counter to Nathan.

Reginald wanted to strike where it would hurt Nathan the most. His grandson was still too green.

Though irritated by Evelyn’s attitude, Reginald knew it stemmed from the way she’d been treated during her marriage to Nathan.

He had no choice but to endure it—for now.

"Very well..."

Reginald exhaled, steadying himself before continuing.

"I’ve always regretted what happened between you and Nathan. I’ve said many times that I hoped you two could reconcile. Such a shame..."

He sighed dramatically.

Evelyn remained silent, watching him with a polite, unreadable smile.

What a performance. Get to the point.

Reginald met her gaze. When she didn’t bite, he abandoned the pretense.

"Of course, your personal affairs are your own. I’ve accepted reality. Those three years in the Blackwood family... perhaps you two simply weren’t meant to be."