Chapter 39

Evelyn Sinclair's mind raced. So that's how it is... Nathan Blackwood had already secured his position as a shareholder. She hadn't anticipated he'd been eyeing the artificial intelligence sector for this long.

If Dominic Kingsley hadn't voluntarily shared this information, Evelyn would never have uncovered it. His willingness to disclose this detail demonstrated his genuine intent to collaborate with her.

Though Nathan's involvement soured her mood, Evelyn maintained professional clarity. She knew better than to let personal history interfere with business opportunities.

She blinked slowly, a calculated smile forming. "With Blackwood Industries' resources, you could easily monopolize this venture. Why involve a third party?"

Her gaze flickered toward Nathan, one eyebrow arching slightly.

"This is uncharted territory," Nathan's deep voice resonated through the room. A faint smirk played on his lips. "Even Blackwood Industries won't gamble alone. Partnering with Sterling Corporation through Kingsley Tech is a strategic move. I anticipate our collaboration will be... enlightening."

His elegant fingers lifted a champagne flute. Dominic mirrored the gesture, their glasses meeting with a crystalline chime. Both men turned expectantly toward Evelyn.

Trapped by circumstance, Evelyn forced a polite smile. Her glass touched theirs with hollow resonance. The deal was sealed.

Beneath her composed exterior, frustration simmered. Dominic, sensing tension, attempted diplomacy. "What better way to commemorate our partnership than having you two lead the anniversary gala's opening dance? It would make a powerful statement."

Nathan's brow furrowed. Evelyn laughed lightly, tucking a stray lock behind her ear. "How unfortunate - I've two left feet." Without waiting for response, she turned sharply, ignoring Nathan's piercing glare.

Dominic shrugged. "One dance seems a small concession for such an important alliance." He chuckled awkwardly. "This doesn't bode well for smooth negotiations ahead."

Nathan's expression darkened as he watched Evelyn's retreating figure. "Can't dance?" he muttered. "Then what was that performance at Sebastian Hart's restaurant?"

Suddenly Gregory Thornton's words echoed in his mind. The anger dissipated, replaced by uncomfortable guilt. "I've wronged her profoundly," he admitted silently.

Downstairs, Evelyn maintained perfect poise until Alexander Sterling approached. "Successful negotiations?" he inquired, noting her lack of enthusiasm. "Dominic insisted on a three-way partnership. Nathan Blackwood's already a stakeholder," she explained flatly.

Understanding dawned on Alexander. He smoothed her hair affectionately. "Shared risk means shared reward. This arrangement benefits us more than you realize."

Evelyn's eyes widened. Nathan's caution mirrored Sterling Corporation's own concerns. The advantages did indeed outweigh the drawbacks.

Her mood lifted instantly. She looped her arm through Alexander's, resting her chin on his shoulder. "Thank you for the perspective, Alex. I'd have wasted days fuming otherwise."

Their affectionate exchange didn't escape notice. From the balcony, Nathan observed through narrowed eyes. Tristan Whitmore materialized beside him. "Interesting," Tristan mused. "Alexander Sterling's famously reserved with women. What makes this one so special? There must be history there."

Nathan turned away without response, descending to mingle with other guests as the ballroom buzzed with activity.

Dominic whispered instructions to the emcee, who soon announced: "Ladies and gentlemen, celebrating Kingsley Tech's fifth anniversary, we proudly announce our groundbreaking partnership with Blackwood Industries and Sterling Corporation! Please welcome Mr. Nathan Blackwood and Ms. Evelyn Sinclair for the opening dance!"

The crowd erupted in applause as spotlights searched for the reluctant dance partners.