Chapter 43

Gregory Whitmore couldn't stand being questioned like this. His expression darkened as he spoke.

"Ms. Sterling, watch your tone."

Victoria Sterling didn’t back down. "There’s nothing wrong with my words. I’m just being honest. I don’t know Ms. Carter’s background, but I refuse to let a fraud join my team!" With that, she turned on her heel and stormed out of the office.

"Ms. Sterling! W-Wait—" The HR manager tried to stop her but failed, sighing in embarrassment. "Ms. Sterling is… direct, Mr. Whitmore. But she only has the company’s best interests at heart. Please don’t take her attitude personally."

Gregory scoffed. "If I minded her attitude, would she still be leading the project?" He turned to Evelyn Carter, softening slightly. "Don’t take her words to heart. That’s just how she is. Beneath the sharpness, she’s a good person. I believe you two will work well together."

Work well together? Evelyn highly doubted that, but she nodded anyway. "I understand the skepticism. But I’m grateful for this opportunity, Mr. Whitmore. I’ll prove myself through my work."

Gregory seemed pleased. Then, as if remembering something, he added, "The new product competition hasn’t been settled yet. DR Holdings is pushing hard. What’s your take on this?" His question was carefully worded, but the implication was clear—she needed to handle it.

Evelyn didn’t hesitate. "I’ll resolve it as soon as possible. The best way to prove myself is through results."

Gregory considered her words before patting her shoulder. "Good. But Phoenix Labs won’t interfere publicly, even though you’re under contract now. Understand?"

"Yes." Evelyn knew the stakes. If Phoenix Labs openly supported her, it could drag Celestia Group into the mess. She wasn’t avoiding the fight—she was just waiting for the right moment to strike.

Meanwhile, Sophia Grant marched straight to the CEO’s office upon returning to the company. No one stopped her—Dominic Reeves had summoned her. But as she raised her hand to knock, she overheard voices inside.

"Compile these documents and send copies to the lawyer. And don’t forget the online media. Hire the trolls discreetly." Dominic’s voice was cold, calculating.

Sophia’s breath hitched. Documents? The ones taken from the lab last time?

Those files were the key evidence linking her and Evelyn’s past work. And now, Dominic planned to weaponize them against Evelyn.

Worse, Evelyn seemed unfazed, while Sophia was panicking. I have to warn her. She pulled out her phone, typing frantically—

A tap on her shoulder made her jump. "Why are you standing out here?"

Sophia spun around. "I—I just got here."

The noise outside caught Dominic’s attention. "What’s going on?" His voice cut through the door.