Chapter 100

Adrian Valentine had become elusive lately, frequently traveling between major cities.

Since the incident with Cassandra Valentine, no one on set dared to bully Isabella Langley openly.

But the whispers behind her back never stopped. Everyone claimed she'd risen through the ranks only because of Adrian's influence.

As today's filming wrapped up, Isabella dialed Adrian's number once more.

The same cold automated voice answered.

This marked the seventh unanswered call.

Sitting in her chauffeured car, Isabella's fingers turned icy. Ever since Evelyn Roland left, Adrian's attitude toward her had noticeably cooled.

She switched to calling Margaret Valentine instead.

"Isabella, finished with work?" Margaret's gentle voice came through.

Isabella forced a smile. "Auntie, where's Adrian? I haven't seen him in a month."

"The company just signed several major projects. He flew overseas three days ago," Margaret explained. "But don't worry—no matter how busy he gets, he never forgets you. Flowers arrive every week."

"A man must focus on his career. The more he earns now, the more comfortable your future will be."

Isabella murmured agreement, but emptiness gnawed at her.

Since Adrian remained unreachable, she had no choice but to keep currying favor with Margaret.

The old matriarch's dislike didn't matter—as long as Margaret stood by her side.

"Auntie, I'm free tonight. Shall we have dinner together?"

Margaret declined immediately. "I'm at the hospital for physical therapy—my back pain is unbearable. Don't come; hospitals are full of germs."

Isabella secretly sighed in relief. Exhausted from daily filming, she had no energy for hospital visits.

The thought of Scarlett Orlando's effortless performance on set soured her mood further.

"I'll visit after you're discharged."

"Good girl. Filming is tiring—make sure to rest," Margaret reminded her.

After hanging up, Isabella leaned back in her seat, lost in thought.

Margaret's inexplicable favoritism remained puzzling, but it worked in her favor.

Their engagement, originally scheduled for this month, had been postponed due to everyone's packed schedules.

The biggest surprise was Cassandra's reaction.

Since the hospital incident, Cassandra had quietly returned to work without seeking revenge.

"Where's Cassandra today?" Isabella suddenly asked.

The driver checked his phone. "Miss, Cassandra is attending a business gala tonight. The chairman will also be there."

A calculating glint flashed in Isabella's eyes. "Let's go too."

"But the chairman instructed—"

"Julian Roscente will be there. Nothing will go wrong," she interrupted. "I need to expand my connections."

Smoothing the wrinkles on her dress, she curled her lips into a determined smile.