Chapter 378

Julian's knuckles turned white as he clenched his fists. "Rosalind, has Everett got you under some kind of spell?"

"That's not your concern!" Rosalind shot back sharply.

Julian crossed his arms with a bitter laugh. "Fine! Then what I choose to do isn't your concern either. I'm going to have a word with Everett right now."

He spun on his heel, striding purposefully toward the construction zone.

Rosalind's expression darkened instantly. She grabbed Julian's arm. "Stop this madness! People are working here! You can't just barge in!"

Just then, the site supervisor hurried over, parting the workers. He bowed slightly to Julian. "Mr. Blackwood, what an unexpected visit! The site's in complete disarray - you'll ruin that designer suit. Are you conducting an inspection today?"

Rosalind froze.

Julian turned to her with a smug grin. "Oh, did I forget to mention? This is Blackwood property. I oversee all our construction projects. My presence here is perfectly normal."

Rosalind had momentarily forgotten the Blackwood family's vast real estate empire. Of course Everett would end up working on their land.

Julian addressed the supervisor. "I understand there's a worker named Everett Sinclair here."

The supervisor nodded eagerly. "Yes, sir. Excellent worker."

"Bring him to me."

The supervisor immediately bellowed, "Everett! Front and center!"

Everett carefully set down the concrete bag he'd been carrying. His gaze locked onto Julian and Rosalind immediately.

Though the site buzzed with activity, the arrival of a gleaming Ferrari and two impeccably dressed visitors had drawn every eye.

Everett approached with measured steps, his expression unreadable.

The supervisor beamed. "Mr. Blackwood, this is Everett. Young, but stronger than any three men here. Never complains about any task."

Julian gave Everett a slow once-over. "What an interesting coincidence. Never imagined I'd find you laboring on my family's property."

Everett's voice remained ice-cold. "Was there something you needed? If not, I have work to do."

Rosalind interjected quickly. "We don't need anything. You should return to your duties."

She tried to steer Julian away, but he only chuckled. "Everett, what's your maximum load for these concrete bags?"

The supervisor answered proudly, "Eight bags, sir. Most men can't manage more than five."

Julian's smile turned predatory. "Here's a proposition. Carry nine bags, I'll pay you a hundred. Make it ten, two hundred. Money's no object. Let's see what you're really capable of."

The supervisor paled. "Mr. Blackwood, that's dangerous! Eight is already pushing human limits!"

Julian kept his eyes locked on Everett. "You're always talking about needing money. Well, here's your golden opportunity."

Rosalind's face flushed with anger. "Julian! Stop this ridiculous game! Must you always flaunt your privilege?"

Julian turned to her innocently. "I'm not forcing anyone. Just offering paid entertainment. He wants money, I want amusement. Perfect arrangement." His gaze swung back to Everett. "Well? Are you game?"

Rosalind moved between them. "Everett, don't indulge him! This could cause serious injury!"

Before she could finish, Everett said calmly, "I'll do it."

Rosalind stared in disbelief.

The supervisor produced a folding chair. Julian settled in, clearly anticipating a show.