Chapter 133

The conference room air turned to ice.

Nathan Carter adjusted his glasses, his razor-sharp gaze piercing through the lenses. "Ms. Pope, as an industry leader, Horizon Media owes us an explanation."

William Yearwood wiped his sweaty forehead before turning to Penelope Pope. "What exactly happened?"

Penelope dug her nails into her palms.

Tell the truth? That would mean admitting plagiarism.

Lie? Evelyn Sinclair could expose her at any moment.

"The article...was assigned by the team," she stammered. "The byline was arranged by the supervisor."

A cold chuckle came from the corner.

Julian Ashford twirled a pen between his fingers, mockery dancing in his eyes.

Alexander Kingsley spoke suddenly. "Bring in the actual writer."

His words detonated like a bomb in the room.

Evelyn was applying a face mask at home when Melissa Lee's call came through like a death summons.

"Get back to the office now! Within thirty minutes!"

"My shift ended." Evelyn's voice remained leisurely.

"Please! I'm begging you this time!" Melissa's voice trembled.

Evelyn's lips curved. "A supervisor groveling? How unbecoming."

"Evelyn Sinclair!" Melissa nearly ground her teeth to dust. "I'm pleading with you—"

After hanging up, cold light flashed in Evelyn's eyes.

The moment she stepped into Horizon Media's building, Melissa's demeanor flipped instantly.

"Your fake article angered Alexander Kingsley. Go explain yourself!"

News spread like wildfire.

"Penelope's viral piece was actually written by Evelyn?"

"Even crazier—she never interviewed Alexander Kingsley!"

"How dare she?"

The breakroom buzzed with gossip.

Martha Nash smashed her cup. [That bitch Melissa!]

Charlie Young paced anxiously. [Evelyn's done for this time!]

Iris Cooper remained calm. [Don't panic. There might be a twist.]

Julian checked his phone, a faint smile playing on his lips.

The conference room door swung open.

Alexander's gaze flickered when Evelyn entered.

Her casual outfit made her porcelain skin glow.

"I didn't write that article."

Her first sentence sent shockwaves through the room.

Penelope turned ghostly pale.

Alexander tapped the table lightly. "Oh?"