Evander had just wrapped up a morning industry summit and walked out of the International Trade Summit Center alongside several top executives.
The group strolled shoulder-to-shoulder toward the parking lot, chatting amiably. Evander walked slightly ahead of the pack, his tall, imposing figure commanding attention. He held an unlit cigarette someone had offered him between his fingers, casually listening to the others discuss upcoming itineraries. A habitual, aloof coldness lingered in his eyes.
Natalie followed half a step behind him. She occasionally chimed in with a professional smile, highlighting her expertise while ensuring Howard Enterprises maintained a dominant position in the conversation.
When they reached the parking area, the executives bid their farewells with polite smiles.
Evander handed the unlit cigarette to Natalie to dispose of and headed straight for his parked car.
Just as he reached for the door handle, he noticed a fresh scratch on the door. It wasn't large, but it was noticeable.
He frowned. Before he could pull out his phone, a woman appeared beside him. "I'm so sorry. Are you the owner of this vehicle?"
Evander turned. The moment he saw her face, his movements visibly stalled.
But within seconds, he averted his gaze, his tone flat. "I am."
"I'm truly sorry, I accidentally scratched your car just now. Um, name your price, and I'll cover the damages." Easter clutched her handbag tightly, looking incredibly tense and overly cautious.
Evander pulled up a payment QR code on his phone. "Three thousand dollars. Not a cent more, not a cent less."
Easter froze for a second before nodding. "...Okay, I'll scan it."
She transferred the three thousand dollars. Once Evander received it, he opened the door and slid into the driver's seat.
Easter quickly spoke up. "Excuse me, sir—"
He paused with his hand on the door and looked back. "Is there something else?"
"Um, could we exchange contact info? Just in case there are any follow-up issues, we can communicate more easily." Easter forced a smile, but her hand gripping the phone was trembling uncontrollably.
Evander studied her thoughtfully. Then, he reached into the center console, pulled out one of Natalie's business cards, and handed it to her. "If you need anything, contact my secretary. Thanks."
Easter's smile faltered. She hesitantly took the card.
He shut the door and drove off.
Only when the car was out of sight did Easter finally dare to take a deep breath. She opened her hand, finding her palm completely slick with cold sweat.
If it weren't for the contract, she never would have done something like this...


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