The Queen Returns—And She's Unforgiving

While Jacob and Sebastian chatted, Evelyn grabbed a glass of sparkling water from the side. She noticed every drink was labeled with its flavor, and they were all non-alcoholic, so she didn't have to dodge anything boozy.

She appreciated that touch.

As she returned, she overheard Justine grumbling, "What's with all the juice and soda? No alcohol at all today?"

When Jacob overheard that, he turned around and began explaining, "Here's the thing. Ms. Moore's been under the weather from handling her new company, so she's on medication. Mr. Grant made sure the resort swapped everything to non- alcoholic drinks."

Evelyn sipped her sparkling water while looking at the ground. It was as if she were merely listening to a stranger's love story.

Justine caught the context and let out a cold scoff. "Mr. Grant's such a saint, making everyone else go along with such arrangements for the sake of one person."

Jacob missed the sarcasm and took it as a joke instead. With a chuckle, he said, "Mr. Grant is definitely attentive to Ms. Moore. No one minds, right? Drinking is bad for you anyway. Skipping it for one day won't hurt."

He added, "Ms. Moore's been swamped. Arrowpoint Solutions keeps her busy, yet she still found time to support TechNova Group's independent project. She's talented and driven. It's no wonder she's worn out. Of course, Mr. Grant is worried about her."

Sebastian gave a tight, insincere smile. "They're so lovey-dovey. How come Mr. Grant and Ms. Moore aren't tying the knot yet?"

Jacob grinned. "When I worked with Ms. Moore, she mentioned focusing on her career and personal growth. I bet the moment she's ready to settle down, Mr. Grant will be waiting with a ring."

Evelyn listened as if it had nothing to do with her. She felt nothing.

Justine, however, was done. Any more of this and she'd gag. She cut in and switched topics. "I heard TechNova Group is backing the military project, is that so?"

Jacob replied, "Mr. Grant's plan was for TechNova Group to be Arrowpoint Solutions' backup to secure the bid. But in practice, TechNova Group won't touch Arrowpoint Solutions' follow-up work."

Evelyn saw no issue with that. Flying Seal Group had only provided Arrowpoint Solutions with basic tech components. Nothing required TechNova Group's involvement.

However, hearing Jacob's explanation, it seemed that Lucas had clearly decided from the start that TechNova Group wouldn't assist further. So, was adding TechNova Group initially just about boosting their chances of winning the bid?

What Evelyn couldn't wrap her head around was that if Lucas knew TechNova Group wouldn't be involved in Arrowpoint Solutions' later stages, he must've also known Flying Seal Group wasn't handing over core tech rights.

And yet, he let things unfold naturally despite being fully aware. What was his angle?

"Has Mr. Hill finalized the work allocation with Ms. Moore?" Jacob asked.

Sebastian replied, "Pretty much."

Jacob nodded. "That's solid. Arrowpoint Solutions has a strong internal tech team now. With both sides diving deep into their strengths, the project will be flawless."

Sebastian shook his head with a half-smile. "No need for that. Arrowpoint Solutions doesn't have to work that hard."

Jacob was confused. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Evelyn hadn't mentioned how Flying Seal Group had outmaneuvered Arrowpoint Solutions. She said coolly, "Tiffany's been under the weather, right? Let's lighten her workload and ease her burden."noveldrama

Justine nearly burst out laughing. Evelyn's deadpan humor was lethal!

Jacob was even more lost. Just as he was about to ask, Tiffany approached from behind. She had likely overheard Evelyn's comment. Still, she only greeted Jacob. "Mr. Jenkins."

Jacob, whose train of thought was interrupted, smiled back.

Tiffany glanced at Sebastian. Even if he was siding with Evelyn now, she wouldn't burn bridges with him. Given his status and influence, she was sure they'd find common ground later-despite the friction from the military bid.

She greeted magnanimously, "Mr. Hill."

Without waiting for Sebastian's response, she turned to leave. Suddenly, she paused. Turning back to Evelyn, she said with a cold face, "Ms. Reed, a word of advice. I'm running Arrowpoint Solutions now. Going forward, please don't address me so casually. Call me Ms. Moore."