Chapter 414

The moment Alexander finalized the contract, a heavy weight lifted from his shoulders. He exhaled deeply, relief washing over him.

This major deal had revitalized the company's reputation, restoring some of its lost prestige.

Back in his office, Alexander couldn't wait to call Nathaniel.

"Dad, congratulations. You've secured another significant partnership."

Nathaniel was already in the car, heading home. His soft brown eyes held warmth, and a faint smile curved his lips.

In terms of appearance, Nathaniel wasn't as striking as Sebastian, nor as sharp as Dominic. He lacked the delicate beauty of Evelyn.

Yet his relaxed, refined features carried a unique charm—approachable, inviting.

Despite his chronic illness confining him to a wheelchair, Nathaniel never wallowed in self-pity. His smile remained bright, his gaze steady—as if that traumatic kidnapping had never happened.

"Nathaniel, this partnership was all thanks to you. I should be thanking you." Alexander's voice brimmed with admiration.

"Dad, it's nothing. No need for formalities between us."

Nathaniel's lips quirked slightly. "Everything I do is for the Kingsley family—for Kingsley Group. It's my duty as a Kingsley."

Alexander was deeply moved. "How are you feeling, son? Any improvement from a few years ago?"

"I'm fine, Dad. Don't worry about me."

"I'll check my schedule soon. Let's arrange a family reunion."

Nathaniel chuckled. "No rush. We might meet in Elmworth sooner than you think."

"You're coming back?" Alexander's breath caught.

"Yes. Home is where the heart is. No matter how long I stay abroad, it's not home. I miss my family." His voice softened. "And Sebastian... I haven't seen him in years. I want to know how he's been."

Star Island wasn't large, but its dense forests and treacherous terrain made it perilous. As night fell, the jungle grew eerier, concealing unpredictable dangers.

After deliberation, Sebastian and Dominic decided to leave Harrison outside as backup.

"Damn it! Why? I'm itching for action!" Harrison kicked the dirt in frustration. "I might not be as skilled as you two, but I'm a sharpshooter! I never miss!"

Dominic, who usually found Harrison amusing, now thought him utterly foolish.

"You still want to marry Evelyn?" Sebastian asked flatly.

"More than anything!"

"Then stay here and behave."

"After twenty years of friendship, you're blackmailing me?" Harrison gritted his teeth. "Fine! Fine! But signal me if you need help, or we're done."

Sebastian had him right where he wanted.

"Be careful out there."

With a nod, Sebastian and Dominic vanished into the forest.

Come back safely with your brother, Harrison silently prayed.

At The Velvet Haven in Elmworth, Evelyn was toasting with Colonel Eden of Country T.

Their partnership had been mutually beneficial—Eden profited handsomely, while Evelyn gained influence in Helgen and Country T.

Now a tycoon in Helgen, Evelyn remained discreet about their dealings.

Elsie Archer played the charming hostess, her low-cut dress drawing Eden's hungry gaze.

The door opened. Harvey rushed to Evelyn's side. "Mr. Chambers, Sebastian and Harrison have arrived in Country T. They're heading into Star Island—likely to capture Ward tonight."

Evelyn sipped his wine. "Just the two of them?"

"And Dominic Ashbourne."

Harvey hesitated. "Should we proceed? If anything happens to Dominic, Evelyn Ashbourne won't take it well. He is her brother."

A cold glint flashed in Evelyn's eyes. "The Ashbournes are obstacles. Let's remove them permanently."

Harvey broke into a cold sweat.

Elsie's hand trembled as she poured wine. The image of Harrison—his roguish grin—flashed through her mind.

Why do these men obsess over Evelyn? My devotion should be enough.

Eden laughed heartily. "Bold as ever, Mr. Chambers!"

Evelyn smirked. "When's the wedding? I'll bring a generous gift."

"Soon. Whether it happens depends on your help, Colonel." His smile turned cruel. "I need two men dead."

"Who?"

"Sebastian. And Dominic."

Eden paled. "You're joking! Cassius Ashbourne's father is the richest man in Skyrim! If I'm linked to this—"

"I've covered every angle." Evelyn leaned closer. "The man they're after? One of your key operatives."

Eden's eyes widened.

"They're trespassing on your turf. The royal family won't tolerate it. Eliminate them first—earn their favor."

Temptation flickered in Eden's gaze.

"And in Country T, they're fish out of water. Dispose of the bodies at sea—no one will know."

Evelyn's voice dropped. "You're the best at this."

Eden licked his lips. "What's in it for me?"

"Name your price."

Eden's gaze slid to Elsie.

Evelyn yanked her arm, sending her crashing into Eden's lap.

"Tonight, she's yours."

Without a backward glance, Evelyn left.

Elsie lay broken on the bed, her red dress in tatters.

The door opened.

Evelyn stared at her bruised body. "I didn't expect him to share my brother's tastes."

Tears spilled down Elsie's cheeks. "Did you ever... love me? Even a little?"

Evelyn laughed coldly. "If I'd known you'd be this pathetic, I wouldn't have saved you."

The door slammed shut.

Rain lashed against Sebastian as he pushed forward.

Dominic matched his pace, impressed by his stamina.

Military training had honed Sebastian—privilege hadn't softened him.

Dominic admitted grudgingly: Sebastian might be the only man who could truly protect Evelyn.

"What a pity," he muttered.

"What?"

Before Dominic could answer, gunfire erupted.

Sebastian tackled him as bullets tore through the air.

Dominic's heart raced. A second slower, and he'd have been Swiss cheese.

"Thanks."

"Ambush. Stay sharp—unless you want Evelyn to lose both of us tonight."

Their men scattered under heavy fire.

"Who tipped them off?" Dominic reloaded.

Sebastian's eyes narrowed. "Someone with ties to Ward—and a grudge against us."

A name burned in his mind: Evelyn Chambers.