Chapter 214

Sebastian Hart and Reginald Hart exchanged puzzled glances as Evelyn Sinclair abruptly excused herself from the gathering.

This was unlike Evelyn. She had always been the epitome of grace and decorum.

Under Reginald's intense scrutiny, Eleanor Hart finally broke down and confessed everything - about the counterfeit painting and Victoria Ashford's obvious infatuation with Sebastian.

Reginald's face darkened with fury. His daughter-in-law Eleanor had always been the perfect society wife, never causing a single scandal.

This unexpected betrayal cut deep. How could she be so foolish? Reginald immediately contacted art experts to obtain photographs of The Radiant Dawn currently displayed at the World Museum.

This masterpiece was created by Friedrich von Strauss during his artistic prime. Every brushstroke was deliberate, every hue meticulously chosen to create a breathtaking whole.

After careful consideration, von Strauss had deliberately left this work unsigned, making The Radiant Dawn his most valuable and unique creation.

Eleanor turned deathly pale as the truth dawned on her. She recalled how she had humiliated Evelyn earlier. What a colossal mistake!

But surely Victoria... Eleanor hesitated. Victoria must have meant well, right?

Reginald saw through her thoughts instantly. "That woman became CEO of Ashford Enterprises before she turned eighteen," he scoffed. "Do you really think you could handle being her mother-in-law?"

"Even if Sebastian married her - which he won't - our company would likely be swallowed by Ashford Enterprises within a year."

Eleanor's face fell. She was just an ordinary socialite - how could she possibly measure up to a powerhouse like Victoria?

"Father, I..." Eleanor's voice trembled with regret. If only she hadn't been so harsh with Evelyn.

"From now on, you will stay away from Victoria Ashford," Reginald commanded. "Business dealings with Ashford Enterprises will be handled by Sebastian and me."

"And you will find an opportunity to apologize to the Sterlings. Whether in New York or San Francisco, Sterling Corporation is our most valuable partner!"

At Sterling Corporation headquarters, Evelyn had just concluded a board meeting when Lucas Sterling called.

"The Harts sent over an entire truckload of gifts. Strange, isn't it?" Lucas remarked.

"Sebastian?" Evelyn asked in surprise. "He usually sends them directly to my office."

"No, these are from Mrs. Hart." Eleanor? Evelyn frowned slightly.

Perhaps she finally discovered the truth about The Radiant Dawn. Unfortunately, it was too late - the painting now hung proudly in her father's study.

But Evelyn wasn't truly upset about the earlier incident. She knew Victoria Ashford had orchestrated the entire situation.

Cutting ties with the Hart family would only play into Victoria's hands. Evelyn chuckled at the thought.

"Have Archibald send appropriate gifts in return," she instructed Lucas.

Just then, Bennett knocked and entered. "President, Ms. Victoria Ashford is here to see you."

Evelyn's eyebrows arched in amusement. "How prompt. Unexpected."

Victoria was no Sophia Blackwood - she wouldn't resort to tears and hysterics when cornered. This confrontation promised to be interesting.

"Show her in."

Victoria entered with the commanding presence of a queen, her cold aura filling the room. Evelyn remained seated, unfazed.

"What an unexpected pleasure, Ms. Ashford."

Victoria took the seat opposite Evelyn without waiting for an invitation. The air between the two powerful women crackled with tension.

"Would you care for some refreshments? Coffee? Tea?"

"Spare me the pleasantries," Victoria snapped, her hands slamming onto Evelyn's desk as she leaned forward. "Did you pressure Nathan Blackwood to remove me from the Pacific Heights project?"

Her piercing gaze burned with barely contained fury. "And was it you who convinced Eleanor Hart to cut all contact with me?"

The intimidating presence that had cowered countless business rivals rolled off Evelyn like water. She met Victoria's glare with calm amusement.

The battle lines were drawn.