Chapter 357

Gabriel crossed his arms. "Be what exactly? Blinded by passion? Or completely irrational?"

"Both."

Naturally, Everett kept that thought to himself.

Gabriel saw right through him and smirked. "Yet I can't help feeling the truly blinded one here isn't me, but someone else entirely."

Before Everett could reply, Gabriel continued, "Besides, Graham's favorite protégé was never me. You're giving me far too much credit, Mr. Mercer."

Everett hadn't expected Gabriel to remain so indifferent even after mentioning Graham.

But Gabriel had no patience for games. "If this bothers you so much, feel free to terminate our contract."

"Of course, you'll need to compensate The Meridian for all resulting losses."

Everett thought he'd approached this conversation with perfect professionalism.

Yet Gabriel had been hostile from the start, and now threatened to sever ties over a simple discussion. It was absurd.

Everett pressed his lips together. "Mr. Ashcroft, let's not be hasty—"

Gabriel's gaze turned glacial. "I'm completely serious."

Everett froze.

Those piercing eyes held no warmth, only steely determination. Everett realized with sudden clarity that Gabriel meant every word.

All this over a few words in Selene's defense? Was it really worth destroying their partnership?

The more resolute Gabriel became, the more childish Everett's interference seemed.

He wanted to argue further, but Gabriel had already dismissed him.

Rising abruptly, Gabriel said coldly, "Since business isn't your priority today, I won't detain you. Selene, please escort him out."

"Mr. Ashcroft!"

Gabriel's smile didn't reach his eyes. "How touching, Mr. Mercer. Does Damien know how... invested you are in his girlfriend's wellbeing?"

Everett stiffened. His voice dropped. "Ms. Lancaster and I have a professional relationship. She genuinely wants to resolve this conflict. I merely attempted to mediate."

"Is that so?"

Since Everett denied any personal involvement, Gabriel lost interest. "I'm done discussing this. Leave."

"Mr. Ashcroft!"

"Selene, now."

Gabriel's tone brooked no argument.

Realizing further discussion was futile, Everett gave Gabriel one last searching look before turning away.

Outside The Meridian's gleaming towers, Everett spotted Selene waiting nearby. He hesitated.

She looked up. "Finished your meeting already, Mr. Mercer?"

He nodded stiffly. "I spoke with Mr. Ashcroft. He knows you're here... but has no intention of seeing you. Perhaps you should go home."

Selene shook her head. "This matters too much. I'll wait."

Her stubbornness sparked unexpected sympathy in Everett.

But he held no sway over Gabriel.

Then it struck him—Graham. Surely he wouldn't condone such behavior?

Everett and Selene shared nothing beyond professional courtesy. However much he pitied her, he had no right to interfere.

All he could say was, "I'll take my leave then. Good day."

Selene offered a tight smile.

As Everett walked away, he paused by his car, then pulled out his phone to call Dorian.

Hours later, Dorian returned his call. "What is it?"

Everett hesitated. "It's nothing urgent... but Gabriel's success may have gone to his head. His recent actions have become increasingly reckless..."