Chapter 87

Vanessa was utterly stunned. Dominic had never spoken to her like that before.

His voice softened as he tried to coax her, even though she was being petty. Normally, he would have been discreet—avoiding a scene at all costs. But today, he snapped.

When he turned to look at her, his expression twisted with distress. He wanted to sweet-talk her, to smooth things over, but frustration won out.

"I'm a mess right now," he sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I'll figure something out. You should go home and rest."

Without another word, Dominic walked away, leaving Vanessa alone in the café.

Rage burned through her.

For years, everything had gone her way—both in love and in her career. She had clawed her way to the top, becoming the undisputed queen of DR Holdings while pushing Evelyn aside.

She had planned it all perfectly. Once the company stabilized, she would retire in luxury, hiring a team to handle the tedious work.

By then, would DR Holdings even need Evelyn?

But now, just as she was on the verge of victory, everything was crumbling.

The company was in crisis.

Dominic’s attitude was shifting.

And it was all because of her.

Evelyn.

If that woman hadn’t reappeared, none of this would be happening.

Meanwhile, in the parking lot, Evelyn shook Julian Whitmore’s hand.

"Thank you for your help today, Mr. Whitmore. I’m sorry for the trouble."

Julian smiled. "It’s my job. No trouble at all. Though…" He hesitated, meeting her questioning gaze. "I think I understand now. Those two took your formula and then accused you of stealing it."

Evelyn’s lips curved faintly. "Yes. But we can’t use my word as evidence in court, can we?"

"Unfortunately, no." Julian studied her, surprised by her calmness. "You don’t seem worried about the lawsuit, Ms. Carter."

Evelyn tilted her head. "The plaintiff just begged the defendant for mercy. Have you ever seen that before?"

Julian chuckled. "No, I can’t say I have."

"Then I don’t need to worry." Her voice was steady, betraying no hint of anxiety.

Julian exhaled, amused. "Fair point. But may I ask—was the formula they referenced really yours, or…?"

Evelyn’s smile deepened. "There’s an old saying—don’t harm others, but don’t let your guard down either. I didn’t realize who they were until it was too late. But better late than never, don’t you think?"

Julian’s eyes gleamed with understanding. "Indeed. And if you don’t intend to hurt others, you won’t hurt yourself. You’re impressive, Ms. Carter."

"Flattery won’t get you anywhere, Mr. Whitmore," she teased. "You’re the one with the sharp mind and keen sense of justice. I still have much to learn from you."

Julian laughed and shook her hand again, this time with genuine warmth. "Pleasure doing business with you."

"Likewise."

After parting ways, Evelyn hailed a cab.

Victoria Sterling had told her she didn’t need to rush into work, but Evelyn wanted to settle in as soon as possible.

She was ready for her new beginning.

At Phoenix Labs.