Outcast Queen: Her Return from Hell novel Chapter 235

The fading light of the setting sun poured through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a pale golden dusk over the office.

Phoenix closed the last folder, rubbed her aching temples, and lazily stretched her stiff limbs.

The clock on the wall had quietly slipped past five.

"Yolanda, I've reviewed all these documents. Go ahead and stamp them for distribution." Her voice was steady, betraying not a hint of fatigue.

"Yes, Ms. Prescott."

"Also, set up a meeting with Harvey York from Summit Construction. Arrange the time as you see fit."

"Understood." Yolanda efficiently gathered the files and turned to leave.

The moment the office fell quiet, the phone on the desk buzzed. Macy Monroe's name flashed across the screen.

"Phoenix, miss me yet?" Macy's sweet, cheerful voice came through the receiver, bringing a trace of warmth to Phoenix's usually cold eyes.

"Macy, today is Ian's birthday party. Did you handle everything I asked?"

"Ugh, you don't love me anymore," Macy whined, feigning heartbreak. "I call you, and your first reaction isn't to ask about me, but to check on that scumbag Ian. Sigh, the love is gone. I've wasted my feelings."

Phoenix cleared her throat awkwardly, a smile tugging at her lips. "How could I? I love you the most. I've just set up a spectacular show, and I'm waiting to grab front-row seats with you."

"Pfft—" Macy couldn't hold back her laughter. "Phoenix, when did you get so wicked? After tonight, Ian's 'national sweetheart' image is going to be reduced to absolute rubble."

"It's what he deserves." Phoenix's eyes narrowed, a freezing glint flashing in the depths of her gaze. "People must always pay the price for their own stupidity."

"Alright, I've arranged everything perfectly. Now we just sit back and wait for the curtain to rise." Macy's voice practically vibrated with excitement.

"By the way," Phoenix shifted the topic, "I'm hosting Nolan at The Meridian Club later. You should come."

"Nolan?!" Macy's voice skyrocketed an octave. "As in... Maestro Nolan? The pianist?"

"Yes."

"Okay! I definitely have to meet this legend tonight!" Macy perked back up.

"Alright. See you soon."

Hanging up the phone, Phoenix quickly touched up her appearance and pushed the office door open.

Just as she rounded the corner of the corridor, a familiar, humiliatingly desperate voice reached her ears.

"Mr. Langley, we've always had a great working relationship. Why the sudden change of heart? Please, just give me a little more time. If you just listen to the pitch for this new project, I know you'll be satisfied."

Julian was blocking the path of a middle-aged man, his tone laced with near-begging desperation. The formerly arrogant, untouchable heir of the Prescott family now stood with his back slightly hunched, his posture dragged through the dirt.

"Julian, let's just leave it at that." Mr. Langley stopped, his eyes cold and impatient. "You're no longer the Executive Vice President. There's no point in us talking. As for the partnership... we can discuss it, but I'd prefer someone else at the table."

As he spoke, his gaze drifted past Julian, landing on Phoenix standing a short distance away. A fawning smile instantly bloomed across his face. "I think Ms. Prescott would be a perfect fit."