Chapter 171

"Mr. Sullivan, is there a problem?"

Ethan Sullivan remained silent for a long moment, his fingers tapping lightly on the desk.

"Look into that land project. See which smaller contracts can be allocated to the Jacksons."

Colin Keller's eyes flickered with surprise, but he quickly masked it.

"I'll get right on it."

The office fell back into silence. Ethan picked up his phone, staring at Evelyn Sullivan's profile picture on the screen. After a long pause, he locked the device.

Three hours later, Colin returned with documents.

"Mr. Sullivan, the swimming pool and landscaping contracts can be outsourced to the Jacksons."

"Contact William Jackson." Ethan paused. "Next time he comes, let him through without delay."

Colin nodded and left, his mind reeling.

The change was too sudden. Even during Ethan's passionate relationship with Isabella, he had never shown favoritism to the Jacksons. Unless... this was for Evelyn?

Colin suddenly understood. He'd have to treat William with more respect from now on—this was his future father-in-law.

At the Jackson villa, Isabella had just calmed down and was preparing for bed when her door was knocked open urgently.

"Isabella!" Victoria Farley beamed with excitement. "Did you contact Ethan?"

Isabella froze, remembering the rejected call earlier.

"Mom, actually—"

"Your father just got word! The Sullivans are giving the Eastside Project to our family!" Victoria clasped her daughter's hands. "I knew you could make it happen!"

Isabella's pupils contracted. Ethan had been so cold on the phone—how could this be?

"I... I'm just so happy," she forced a smile.

Victoria lovingly stroked her hair. "This project will bring in at least a hundred million. What reward would you like?"

"Nothing, Mom."

"That six-million-dollar dress—we'll go buy it tomorrow."

Isabella's eyes lit up as she threw herself into Victoria's arms. "Thank you, Mom!"

The next morning, Evelyn had just picked up her car keys when her phone rang.

"Evelyn!" Sophia Reynolds' voice was urgent. "Glorious is suing us for copyright infringement!"