The Queen Returns—And She's Unforgiving novel Chapter 66

Evelyn wasn't particularly surprised. She continued organizing her documents. "Even if you refuse, Lucas will find another way."

Sebastian frowned. "What's so special about that woman? She's got him completely wrapped around her finger!"

Evelyn shook her head. "Love doesn't have to make sense."

And to be fair, Tiffany did have qualities that could captivate a man. She and Lucas hadn't even known each other that long—three months, at most. Yet in that short time, she had achieved what Evelyn hadn't in three years of marriage.

Sebastian huffed. "Maybe I should whisper in my dad's ear and get them both blacklisted."

Evelyn gave him a knowing look. "Lucas is protecting Tiffany. If he finds out, he'll make things difficult for Flying Seal Group. We don't have the leverage to go up against Bluezen. There's no need to create unnecessary trouble over personal matters."

There were plenty of highly skilled professionals like Tiffany. But getting an audience with Graham—let alone receiving his guidance—was a privilege reserved for the absolute best.

Without Lucas, Tiffany wouldn't even have been in the running.

"The best thing we can do is focus on ourselves. If she truly impresses Professor Hill, that'll be on her."

Sebastian ruffled Evelyn's hair. "I just don't want you to take this too hard."

After all, Lucas—along with his resources and connections—was now fully invested in Tiffany. And Evelyn had nothing.

She blinked, then let out a faint smile. "I try to be rational about these things. No point in forcing what won't work."

If everyone acted on emotions, nothing would ever get solved. She didn't let it bother her.

For the past few days, she had been reviewing the books Graham had given her. Cross-referencing them with academic literature, she continued refining her ideas.

Even Sebastian was impressed, already envisioning the success of their project. He was so excited that he gathered the engineering and technical teams for a full meeting.

If all went well, they'd be ready to send their proposal to Graham by next week. But before that, Sebastian suggested they meet with Donald Steward. If their project received government backing, its impact would be even greater over the next three years.

...

The next day, Evelyn and Sebastian headed to Donald's office to meet him.

Before the meeting, Donald's secretary, Sidney Tanner, shared a bit of information with them. He told them Lucas brought Tiffany there to see Donald the day before.

Evelyn paused but quickly regained her composure.

Of course. Lucas valued Tiffany, and he was a man of vision. Naturally, he wouldn't pass up the chance to boost her credentials.

Sidney smiled. "But Mr. Steward doesn't really buy Ms. Moore's ideas. That said, Mr. Steward hasn't made a decision yet. You two still have a shot."

That was all she needed to say.

Donald had always had a good impression of Evelyn. Knowing her true background only made him take her more seriously.

Their discussion lasted two hours.

Donald didn't give an immediate answer, but Sebastian wasn't worried. "Based on my experience, we're in a good spot."

Evelyn hoped so.

...

The next day, she sent Graham a brief message.

She had avoided reaching out for a long time out of guilt. But now that she was working toward her dream again, she wanted to at least apologize for not following through on his initial recommendation to join the Aerospace Research Institute.

But there was no response. He was probably still mad at her, and she understood. His disappointment didn't just happen overnight.

After years of struggling in a loveless marriage, she knew that better than anyone.

...

Later that day, on her way to a client meeting, she ran into Lucas. He had just arrived at the venue and was being escorted inside.