Chapter 980

Isaiah Sinclair knew this contract was a trap.

Signing it would mean admitting to commercial fraud.

In Montecito, he didn't have the same unchecked power as he did in Pacifica.

Worse, if Preston Sinclair got his hands on this document, Isaiah would be at his mercy.

Rumors painted Evelyn as a spoiled heiress, but she was sharper than anyone gave her credit for.

Seeing his hesitation, Evelyn smirked. Her gaze turned icy.

"Integrity is non-negotiable for Sterling Enterprises. Betraying a partner for short-term gain? That’s how reputations are destroyed."

She leaned back, fingers tapping the desk. "And let’s be clear—business and personal matters stay separate. I don’t control Preston’s decisions."

Isaiah’s expression darkened. The air in the room thickened with tension.

His eyes bore into her, a flicker of frustration crossing his face.

Stunning but stubborn. I’ve never met a woman who refuses to bend.

He’d dealt with plenty of society women like Evelyn. They played hard to get, but secretly craved control—twisting men’s lives for their own satisfaction before walking away.

Yet Evelyn radiated cold indifference. Unreachable. Unshakable.

Who does she think she is?

When he stayed silent, Evelyn checked her watch.

"Mr. Sinclair, I have another meeting."

A clear dismissal.

Isaiah’s jaw clenched. His breath came heavier.

"You’re really refusing me?"

His tone was rough, edged with a threat.

Evelyn didn’t flinch. "Yes."

A single word. A slap in the face.

Isaiah stood abruptly, jerking his suit jacket into place. "Then I won’t waste your time."

He stormed out without another glance.

Evelyn didn’t bother rising. She stayed seated, posture relaxed.

"Bennett, escort our guest."

Her assistant opened the door. "This way, Mr. Sinclair."

Isaiah shot her one last glare before leaving.

Twenty minutes later, Bennett returned.

"Mr. Sinclair went straight to Mr. Sterling’s office. Demanded a meeting."

Evelyn arched a brow. Still trying?

"And?"

"President Sterling was in a conference. Mr. Sinclair waited, but when it ended, President Sterling left with a client instead."

Evelyn smirked. Did Isaiah really think going over her head would work?

Sterling Enterprises stood united.

Alone again, she walked to the floor-to-ceiling window, gazing at the clear sky.

Today had been satisfying.

A knock interrupted her thoughts.

Assuming it was Bennett, she didn’t turn.

"Come in."