Chapter 50

Evelyn Sinclair despised Olivia Kensington, but she couldn’t afford an outright confrontation.

Olivia held leverage over her.

"My leadership experience is just as extensive as anyone on that list, and my performance ranks among the top senior managers." Evelyn crossed her arms, her tone edged with thinly veiled irritation. "Vice President Olivia, are you still holding a grudge over what happened last time?"

Olivia lowered her gaze, a smirk playing on her lips. "I don’t hold grudges, Evelyn. But I do recall you were vehemently against partnering with Kingsley Tech before this." She leaned back in her chair. "I just worry your personal bias might interfere with the collaboration."

Evelyn forced a tight smile. "I fully support the company’s decision now."

Olivia gave her a dismissive nod. "The list was finalized at the board meeting. There’s no changing it now. Maybe next time."

She began organizing the files on her desk—a clear dismissal.

Evelyn’s nails dug into her palms. "I’m sure exceptions can be made. Just wait and see, Vice President Olivia."

With that, she spun on her heel and strode out, confidence radiating from her every step.

Olivia watched her go, a slow, calculating smile curving her lips.

Perfect. She took the bait.

That afternoon, Bennett buzzed Evelyn’s office. "Victor Kensington wants to see you in his office."

Evelyn arched a brow. "The soon-to-retire board member? Interesting."

Aside from Alexander Sterling and Bennett, no one at Sterling Corp knew Evelyn’s true identity. As the newly appointed Vice President, she was curious what Victor wanted.

Victor had a reputation for insider trading. He’d wormed his way onto the board through dubious means and clung to his position like a leech. But with minimal shares and no real influence, he was more of a nuisance than a threat.

Evelyn knocked on his office door.

"Come in," came a weary voice.

She stepped inside, her smile polished and professional. "You wanted to see me, Mr. Kensington?"

Victor’s eyes flickered with something—interest, regret—before his expression settled into a practiced neutrality. "Sit."

She took the seat across from him.

Victor cleared his throat. "You’re quite striking, Ms. Sinclair. No wonder Alexander pushed so hard for your promotion despite the objections."

Evelyn’s smile didn’t waver. So he resents Alexander’s influence.

She remained silent, letting him fill the uncomfortable quiet.

Victor’s lips thinned. "Did you know your position was originally meant for Olivia Kensington?"

Is he trying to intimidate me?

Evelyn tilted her head. "Olivia is competent, but I’m the better fit for this role."

Victor’s face darkened. "Arrogance and disrespect won’t get you far in this company, girl."

She stood, smoothing her blazer. "Then I’ll let my results speak for themselves. If there’s nothing else, I’ll take my leave."

"Evelyn!" Victor snapped, frustration bleeding into his tone. "Add Olivia Kensington to the Kingsley Tech project team."

Her smile widened. So Olivia’s backer is this pathetic old man? Did she really think he’d scare me?

Victor scowled at her silence. "Did you hear me?"

"I did."

"Then make it happen."

Evelyn met his glare without flinching. "I can’t. It wouldn’t be fair to the others."

Victor’s face purpled. "Do you think Alexander’s protection makes you untouchable? I could—"

"Fire me?" Evelyn cut in, amused. "I doubt the board would remove me over Olivia Kensington. But I suppose she didn’t tell you what I have on her when she came crying to you." She leaned in slightly, her voice dropping to a lethal whisper. "Tell her to stay out of my way."

Without waiting for a response, she turned and walked out, leaving Victor gaping behind her.

The moment she was clear of his office, she dialed Alexander’s private line.

"What’s wrong, Evie?"

"Victor Kensington is dirty. Olivia’s his puppet. He’s the one who tried to block the Kingsley Tech deal from the start."

Alexander chuckled. "Sharp as ever."

"You already knew?"

"Of course. Did you think I’d miss dissent in my own boardroom?"

Evelyn exhaled. "Good. That old fox isn’t worth my time."

"Leave him to me. Focus on Kingsley Tech." A pause. "Oh, and Nathan Blackwood is taking personal charge of this project."

Evelyn’s grip tightened on her phone.

Interesting.