Chapter 268

Peter Harrison smirked with hidden meaning. "No need to get angry, Mr. Hamilton. I'm just stating facts. Though Evelyn seems to be your new favorite now, so let's leave the past behind."

Alexander Hamilton's gaze turned sharp. "Why didn't you bring roasted sweet potatoes to win her over today?"

"First, I'd rather not get punched." Peter swirled his coffee cup. "Second, I specifically ordered hot milk for Evelyn. She's not feeling well today—something warm will help."

Alexander's attention snapped to Evelyn.

Her face paled instantly.

It was true—she had her period today.

But how did Peter know?

Alexander mused, "No wonder you've been in such a bad mood."

"Anyone would be cranky after being dragged out to watch a terrible movie for no reason."

"Next time, I'll have Emily screen the films first." His tone was calm. "We'll only go if the ratings are high."

Evelyn pressed her lips together and stayed silent. This was a game between two men—she was merely a spectator.

The server arrived with their drinks.

Evelyn cradled the warm milk, taking small sips. The sweetness spread across her tongue, easing the dull ache in her abdomen.

Suddenly, Alexander snatched the cup from her hands and took a large gulp.

"Too bitter." He frowned, setting down his coffee, then swallowed the milk. "This is just the right sweetness."

Peter cut to the chase. "I want lead control over Hamilton Group's projects for the next three years."

Alexander tapped the table lightly. "Ambitious. Hamilton handles nearly a hundred projects annually with cash flow exceeding a billion. You're asking me to stake my fortune on you."

"Originally, I wanted five years." Peter's gaze slid meaningfully toward Evelyn. "If Evelyn and I got married, bought a house... by then, Mr. Hamilton might need eight or ten years to make us divorce."

Alexander scoffed. "I like her, but that doesn't mean I'll be your cash cow."

"Oh?"

"Rather than giving you a decade of control, it'd be simpler to just eliminate you." Alexander lounged back, crossing his long legs. "If you've done your research, you'd know how easy that is for me."

Peter narrowed his eyes. "True. Evelyn might be the only person in the world who still believes you're a gentleman."

"Name your bottom line."

"Three projects." Peter held up three fingers. "Cloud Terrace Resort Phase Two, the amusement park demolition, and Times Square in S City."

Alexander's lips curved slightly. "You've done your homework."

"My final offer. It won't cripple Hamilton Group, but I won't work for free either." Peter lifted his coffee cup. "Whether Simon and Natalie Stapleton divorce depends on you now."

The air hung heavy for several minutes.

"Deal." Alexander finally uttered the word.

As they left, Peter escorted them to the car with exaggerated courtesy. He looked at Evelyn, sincerity in his voice. "It wasn't all manipulation. I genuinely like you. If I had Alexander's background—"

A car horn blared abruptly.

Evelyn flinched back half a step.

Peter startled as well.

Alexander remained impassive. "Just testing the horn. Needs maintenance."