Chapter 147

Alexander's icy voice cut through the air behind her. "What are you doing here?"

Evelyn's fingers twisted the hem of her blouse unconsciously.

"I..." Her lips parted, but no explanation came.

Alexander's gaze swept over her face. "I heard someone accused you of leaking our positions?"

Before Evelyn could respond, hurried footsteps echoed from the stairwell.

"Alex! Are you up there?" Isabella's tearful voice trembled.

Evelyn ducked into the shadows.

Isabella stumbled onto the rooftop, arms outstretched. "Don't do anything rash—"

Alexander sidestepped her embrace, brows furrowed. "Why are you here?"

"I heard about Kingsley Group's crisis and worried you might..." Isabella's eyes glistened. "We need solutions. I know a coffee bean supplier—"

Alexander's expression shifted. "Oh?"

"He has the quantity you need at negotiable prices." She thrust forward a business card. "You must secure inventory before market open."

Alexander photographed the card. "Nathan will handle it."

Isabella exhaled. Then she lowered her voice: "Alex... During the trial, I'm glad you didn't deny our relationship."

Alexander stiffened, his gaze darting toward Evelyn's hiding spot.

"That night you clearly—" Isabella's voice cracked. "I know you're reserved. I'll wait—"

"Global coffee inventories were below 10% last year." Alexander interrupted, staring at his phone. "Where did this stock materialize from?"

"Secondary market reserves," Isabella stammered.

"Thanks." His laugh held no warmth. "You've just confirmed my settlement strategy."

Isabella blinked in confusion as Alexander strode toward the shadows.

The empty alcove made his pulse spike.

"Evelyn!" He lunged for the stairs, heart hammering.

Isabella grabbed his arm. He shook her off violently, leaving her sprawled on the concrete as he vanished downstairs.

Her phone rang.

"Mother?" Isabella answered to panicked shrieks. "Ask Alexander what Kingsley Group's announcement means!"

The Ashford mansion blazed with light.

Melissa clung to Mrs. Ashford's side, stealing glances at Julian brooding in the corner.

"Where are you going?" Mrs. Ashford called as her son stood.

"Air." Julian didn't turn.

Mrs. Ashford nudged Melissa. "Go with him."

Julian kept walking. Melissa trotted after him. "Wait for me!"

"Did you leak Kingsley's positions?" Julian whirled abruptly.

Melissa paled. "How dare—"

"You had motive." His stare turned glacial. "And framed Evelyn."

"You think you know her?" Melissa's laugh shrilled. "That gold-digger would sell her soul!"

A slap cracked through the garden.

"Now you know I hit vicious women." Julian smirked. "Still want to marry me?"

"Evelyn seduced Evan Wells!" Melissa screeched. "You'll regret this!"

"Melissa!" Mr. Lee rushed over. "Are you certain those positions were accurate? Kingsley just completed settlement!"

Melissa froze.

Kingsley... settled?