The Queen Returns—And She's Unforgiving novel Chapter 286

Even Sebastian found it odd. He had never met Brian before the engagement party, and that was their first and only encounter. Still, the man seemed genuinely interested in Flying Seal Group.

"Maybe it's just my… magnetic charm?" Sebastian joked, indulging in a rare moment of self-flattery.

Evelyn didn't bother acknowledging the joke. She simply said, crisp and to the point, "Go. Networking is always a good thing."

Sebastian lowered his head to reply to Brian's message.

Later that day, he had a detailed conversation with Lucas about the specifics of the joint bid.

He had expected Lucas to be aggressive about control, maybe even hard to negotiate with. But to his surprise, Lucas was entirely cooperative. He agreed to every term Flying Seal Group proposed without pushback.

Evelyn understood why.

Lucas wasn't looking to carve out a major profit share for Arrowpoint Solutions in this military bid. What he wanted was for the company to gain market visibility—a strategic entry point, a foundation.

He was playing the long game for Tiffany's future. But whether Tiffany could lead Arrowpoint Solutions down a stable path after this door was opened was another story entirely.

Evelyn stayed focused. She and Sebastian fine-tuned the contract, adding penalty clauses and explicit lines regarding responsibility to prevent any possibility of dodging accountability.

The bid proposal was finalized.

The military bidding event was held at the Clementon Public Resource Exchange Center.

There was a rise in the temperature. On the day of the event, Evelyn wore a tailored purple business suit that was fitted at the waist with subtle ruffles. She paired it with a sleek pencil skirt. It was understated and professional yet full of quiet elegance.

Representatives from all over the country had flown in for the bid. The place was filled with industry leaders and elites.

As she entered the main venue, Evelyn immediately spotted the most influential figure in attendance that day.

Caleb had arrived, surrounded by a quiet entourage.

The location and details of the conference had been tightly guarded, with only essential personnel allowed in.

Now, it made sense why there were so many security checks outside.

Caleb also saw Evelyn. She nudged Sebastian, and the two made their way over to greet him.

"Ms. Reed," Caleb greeted her with a hint of warmth that slightly softened his usual sharp-edged demeanor.

Evelyn smiled gently. "Mr. Carter, this is Sebastian Hill. You may already know him."

Sebastian dropped his usual laid-back attitude and nodded respectfully. "It's been a while, Mr. Carter."

He hadn't really interacted with Caleb before, except through Graham's occasional political ties. He had only met Caleb once during a research institute event.

Caleb patted Sebastian's shoulder. "Let's catch up soon. With talents like you and Ms. Reed, Flying Seal Group's future is looking very bright."

"I'll hold you to that." Sebastian gave a polite nod.

Evelyn smiled.

Then came a stir in the crowd. They vaguely heard a few people whispering, "Mr. Grant…"