Chapter 140

Evelyn arched a delicate brow, suspicion flickering in her emerald eyes. Then, with a playful smirk dancing on her lips, she countered, "Oh? Since when did you care about my well-being, Mr. Black?"

Nathan let out a derisive scoff, his piercing gaze sharpening with disdain. "If you get fired, it won’t just be your reputation in ruins—it’ll tarnish the Black family’s name too." His voice dropped to a glacial whisper. "If you’re truly incompetent and only got this position because of Sebastian’s favoritism, do us all a favor and resign now. Spare us the embarrassment." His words were merciless, slicing through the air like a blade.

Evelyn exhaled slowly, a soft, almost amused chuckle escaping her. "How generous of you to worry about my career, Nathan. But really, don’t trouble yourself."

With that, she set down her half-finished honey water and rose gracefully, turning to leave. Nathan’s eyes tracked her retreating figure, a spark of intrigue flashing in their depths. Her reaction wasn’t that of someone drowning in scandal—she moved with the confidence of a woman who had already outmaneuvered her enemies. His frown eased slightly as the realization settled in.

The Next Day – Director’s Office, Grand Pines General Hospital

"Reginald, you asked to see me?" Sebastian strode in, his demeanor as composed as ever.

Reginald Vaughn, the hospital director, slid a letter across his desk. "Read this."

Sebastian unfolded the paper, his lips curling into a cold smirk as he scanned the contents. An anonymous complaint—accusing him of nepotism, of securing Evelyn’s position through unethical means. The writer demanded an investigation, threatening to expose the "corruption" if the hospital failed to act.

Reginald studied him carefully. "Care to explain?"

Sebastian’s voice remained steady. "You and I both know Evelyn’s credentials. I consulted you before bringing her on board. Her unique circumstances were never a secret."

Only Sebastian and his assistant, Trevor, knew Evelyn’s true identity—the legendary surgeon known as Star.

Reginald sighed, rubbing his temples. "I remember, but I didn’t expect this backlash. The rumors are spreading like wildfire. We can’t ignore this. You need to address it."

Sebastian nodded. "Consider it handled."

"Good. Just make sure it’s done properly."

"Of course." With that, Sebastian turned on his heel and left.

Cardiac Surgery Department

When Sebastian arrived, the doctors exchanged uneasy glances.

"Mr. Holloway, is something wrong?" one of them ventured, confusion lacing his tone.

Sebastian’s voice was firm. "Gather every on-duty doctor and the department head. Now."

"Yes, sir."

Minutes later, the team assembled in the conference room. Evelyn leaned back in her chair, a knowing glint in her eyes. So the snake has finally struck.

Sebastian took his place at the head of the table. "Since you’re all here, let’s begin." His gaze swept over them, unreadable. "By now, I’m sure you’ve all heard the rumors circulating about Evelyn’s employment." He paused, his tone turning razor-sharp. "So tell me—does anyone here have a problem with me?"

Silence.

Then—