Chapter 109

Isabella Sinclair knew Alexander Whitmore's study was off-limits. She settled in their bedroom with a book, waiting patiently.

The clock struck nearly 1:00 am when Alexander finally appeared.

Seeing him, Isabella closed her novel. His indifferent gaze met hers. "Problem?"

She didn't mince words. "There's a charity auction at The Grandeur in two days—"

Alexander loosened his tie with practiced elegance. Nodding, he cut in, "You need an invitation?"

Her eyebrows lifted slightly. "Yes."

"Consider it done." He turned toward the walk-in closet.

Minutes later, the shower turned on.

His easy agreement surprised her. But with his promise secured, she relaxed.

It was late. She marked her page and slipped under the covers. Sleep claimed her before the water stopped running.

With the auction approaching, Isabella left YodaVision early the next day. The Whitmore estate stood empty when she arrived—except for Sophia.

Her stepdaughter clung to her immediately. "Make your famous lasagna tonight?"

Isabella agreed.

After dinner, Richard Thornton approached. "Mrs. Whitmore, this arrived for you." The envelope contained two invitations to tomorrow's event.

Alexander had come through. Two tickets, no less.

But sending them via staff? That meant he wouldn't be home tonight.

As she prepared for bed, her phone buzzed.

Emily Donovan's messages appeared. The attached Instagram screenshot froze Isabella's fingers.

Fireworks painted the sky in the photo. Victoria Kensington's profile glowed with a radiant smile. Alexander's broad back faced the camera.

Caption: "Magic under the stars."

Other couples blurred in the background. Clearly a popular romantic spot.

Victoria called the fireworks magical. But her blissful expression revealed the truth—the real magic was Alexander's presence.

So this explained his absence. A date with Victoria. Without Sophia.

Isabella studied the image, emotions curiously flat. Only one question surfaced. She texted Emily:

"You follow Victoria now?"

How else would she get this?

"A mutual friend showed me. I asked for the screenshot." Emily omitted how envious that friend was.

Their entire circle knew Victoria had captured Alexander's heart. And not just captured—he treated her like rare porcelain.

Remembering the extra ticket, Isabella typed: "Auction tomorrow. Want to come?"

Emily replied instantly: "Try stopping me!"

Alexander never returned that night. Exactly as Isabella predicted.

After fireworks came intimate dinners. Then undoubtedly, more private celebrations.

His absence didn't bother her. In fact, she relished having the king-sized bed to herself.