Chapter 454

Samuel and Oliver studied her simultaneously.

A beat passed before Samuel arched a brow. "You speak Almerian?"

Evelyn's lips curved. "Enough to get by."

Oliver scoffed internally. This woman would say anything to get what she wants. His earlier professional respect for her evaporated.

"Miss Whitmore," he said coolly, "this position requires fluency. Casual greetings don't qualify. Please refrain from interrupting." Her resume listed no foreign languages—why would she hide such a skill if she truly possessed it?

Evelyn remained unruffled. "I may not be native-level, but I'm confident I can assist your client."

Oliver ignored her, turning to Samuel. "Sir, what's our move?"

Samuel had already dismissed Evelyn, scanning his computer for alternative solutions. Like Oliver, he assumed she was meddling to complicate matters further.

Recognizing their skepticism, Evelyn stepped forward. "Mr. Rivers, your dilemma is clear: lose the client without a translator or take a chance on me. What do you have to lose?"

Samuel's gaze turned glacial. "This isn't a playground, Miss Whitmore."

"Does my expression suggest I'm playing?" She tilted her head. "Here's my offer: if I secure the client, hire me as your executive secretary. If I fail, I vanish permanently—no more interference with Amelia or Nathaniel. Deal?"

Truthfully, she disliked Samuel intensely. Shared blood meant nothing when he sneered at those beneath his social tier.

But the photo of her mother on his desk had sealed her resolve. Staying at Rivers Group meant uncovering the truth.

Samuel studied her for a long moment. Then, unexpectedly, he smiled. "Fine. Oliver, take her to the client."

Oliver gaped. "Sir, I don't—"

This is madness. She's bluffing. Is he really gambling their business on her?

Samuel was dead serious. Worst-case scenario? They'd lose one client—hardly catastrophic. Finding another translator in time was impossible anyway. And Evelyn's promise to disappear if she failed? That alone made the gamble worthwhile.

He sipped his coffee. "Oliver, if she fails, don't bring her back. This company has no room for arrogance masquerading as competence."