Chapter 206

The conference room air turned to ice.

Executives exchanged uneasy glances, skepticism written across their faces.

William Yearwood's fingers drummed an impatient rhythm on the table.

Winston Strauss's assistant reached out first?

How did Evelyn Sinclair secure this interview?

A million-dollar fee—and she agreed without hesitation?

Dark scowls deepened across the room.

"Scrap the non-compete clause," someone sneered. "No point wasting company resources."

What difference would it make?

Horizon Media's influence could bury Evelyn's career overnight.

"Which assistant? What exactly was said?" William's voice tightened.

The secretary handed him a tablet. "Mr. Yeager sent the interview agreement for our approval."

Approval?

Approval to be swindled?

William was about to erupt when the door swung open.

Julian Ashford strode in.

His gaze brushed past Evelyn—so fleeting it might've been imagined.

"I hear we've landed the Winston Strauss exclusive?"

Melissa Lee cut in first. "Editor Sinclair acted unilaterally. Didn't even consult the company on pricing."

Her nails dug into her palms.

Julian didn't spare her a glance.

"Budget isn't an issue." He locked eyes with William. "Since when does Horizon pinch pennies?"

"Have you lost your mind?" William slammed the table. "We're not funding this fiasco!"

"Fiasco?" Julian's laugh was razor-sharp. "Every person here knows the value of a Strauss interview."

As father and son squared off, Evelyn suddenly chuckled.

"Mr. Yearwood just said he wouldn't do this even if we paid them?"

A vein throbbed at William's temple. "I stand by that. Unlike you—"

"Enough." Julian abruptly grasped Evelyn's hand. "If there's blame, it's mine to bear."

Melissa's pen clattered to the floor.

Married?

Gasps rippled through the executives.

William burst into laughter. "Spare the act! I checked—you're not even legally wed!"

Evelyn felt the warmth vanish from Julian's grip.

"Julian." She gently withdrew her hand. "I can handle this myself."

He stood frozen.

He should've known.

She never needed his protection.

"Fine." His voice turned hoarse. "I'll stay out of it."

Melissa's glare at Evelyn could've melted steel.

What gave this woman such power?

"Review the agreement." Julian closed his eyes wearily.

Only the rustle of turning pages filled the room.

Every person present understood—

This battle had just begun.