Chapter 58

"Is this Miss Evelyn Thorne?"

The voice on the other end of the line was smooth, deep, and carried an effortless charm.

"Yes, speaking. And you are?" Evelyn replied, curiosity threading through her words.

"Hello, I'm Tristan Chamberlain from Veritas Capital. I obtained your contact from Thornfield Industries' HR department. I'd love to discuss a potential collaboration," Tristan said, his tone warm and inviting.

"Veritas Capital?"

"Indeed. Would you be available to meet today? I happen to be near your office at the moment," Tristan offered, his sincerity evident.

After a brief pause, Evelyn agreed.

Once they settled on a meeting spot, she immediately dialed the HR manager at Thornfield Industries.

"Do you know Tristan Chamberlain from Veritas Capital?"

"Absolutely. He's a brilliant investor. Veritas is one of the top investment firms in the country, which is why I didn't hesitate to share your number when he requested it earlier," the HR manager explained.

"Understood," Evelyn murmured.

"Would you like me to accompany you to the meeting? I worry it might be overwhelming if you go alone," the manager offered.

Morale at Thornfield Industries had plummeted since Vincent Holloway's departure, and several key employees had resigned. Without securing investors soon, the company would be in dire straits.

"That won’t be necessary. It’s the weekend—you should take some time for yourself," Evelyn replied firmly.

On her way to the meeting, she quickly searched Tristan Chamberlain online.

Her breath hitched when his photo appeared.

He looked far younger than she’d imagined.

A glance at his age confirmed he was indeed quite young.

Odd. They were the same age, yet Tristan seemed youthful, while Dominic Blackwood carried an air of maturity beyond his years.

She studied Tristan’s photo again and realized why.

Tristan’s confident, easy smile radiated warmth, whereas Dominic’s expression was perpetually unreadable.

When Evelyn stepped into Café Solstice, Tristan immediately stood and waved her over.

She took the seat across from him. "Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Chamberlain."

"Please, call me Tristan," he said with a disarming smile, sliding the menu toward her.

Evelyn hesitated, then shook her head. "I don’t drink coffee." She quickly added, "I’ve been having trouble sleeping, so my doctor advised cutting out caffeine."

Tristan set the menu down, concern flickering in his eyes. "My apologies—I had no idea. We can go somewhere else if you'd prefer?"

"It’s fine. Water will do," she assured him. "You mentioned a potential collaboration, Tristan. What interests you about Thornfield Industries?"

Tristan ordered a coffee and a slice of chocolate cake before turning his full attention back to her.

"From a business standpoint, I see immense potential in Thornfield," he said smoothly.

Evelyn studied him. "Are you referring to our Cerebra System?"

Tristan’s expression shifted, thoughtful. After a beat, he replied, "Your father intended to apply the system to private vehicles, but I believe we can aim higher. Imagine its applications in exploration, search and rescue, even military operations. Don’t you agree?"

Evelyn’s mind raced with possibilities.

"The private sector is too volatile," Tristan continued. "One fatal accident could destroy the company’s reputation overnight."

Evelyn nodded slowly. "That’s a compelling argument. What kind of collaboration did you have in mind?"

Tristan adjusted his glasses, a faint smile playing on his lips. "From what I’ve heard, someone is looking to acquire Thornfield Industries."

Evelyn’s fingers tightened around her glass. "Yes," she admitted. "He wants to buy us outright."