Chapter 121

Nathaniel and Isabella exchanged a glance as they walked away from Gregory Whitmore.

Gregory caught up with them. "Is there some tension between you and the Kensingtons?"

Isabella's lips pressed into a thin line. "Not at all."

She wasn't lying - it was far worse than a simple misunderstanding.

But Gregory misinterpreted her response, assuming she genuinely had no issues with Victoria's family.

"Good to hear." Gregory adjusted his tie. "Given how highly Alexander values Ms. Kensington, their family's influence is skyrocketing. The Whitmores, especially Alexander, aren't to be trifled with. Even if you don't want to associate with them, don't make enemies either."

Isabella's lips curved into a bitter smile. The irony was almost amusing.

Who else would be advised to maintain good relations with their husband's mistress because said husband favored the other woman too much?

Nathaniel's jaw tightened. "We're not intimidated by Alexander Whitmore."

Their company had government protection thanks to the CUAP project.

Alexander's previous attempts to acquire their firm had failed. With their current project, Nathaniel knew they'd soon have even stronger governmental backing.

Within a year, their company would expand beyond Alexander's reach.

Nathaniel's confidence came from Isabella's strategic planning.

Margaret Sinclair's birthday approached this Saturday.

Isabella no longer cared whether Alexander attended. But Sophia's presence was non-negotiable.

To prevent her daughter from sneaking off to see Victoria again, Isabella made an early call on Thursday morning.

It was their first conversation since Sophia's return from Salzburg.

"Mom!" Sophia's voice brightened when she saw the caller ID, nearly dropping her fork.

Alexander sat across the breakfast table, watching.

"Are you eating?" Isabella recognized the muffled speech.

"Yes! Did you eat already?"

"I did." Isabella got straight to the point. "Grandmother's birthday is Saturday. Clear your schedule - you're coming with me to celebrate."

Sophia's enthusiasm dimmed. "Oh..."

She'd missed seeing Victoria last weekend and hoped to make up for it.

Isabella knew that hesitation all too well. "Is your father there?"

Sophia glanced at Alexander. "Yes. Do you want to talk to him?"

"Put him on."

Alexander took the phone, his voice cool. "What is it?"

"Margaret's birthday is Saturday. Ensure Sophia accompanies me to the Sinclair estate without any... detours."

"Understood."

"I'll pick her up Friday evening."

A pause. Then Isabella added, "Thank you."

Alexander's response was a noncommittal hum.

Not once had she asked if he was free that day.

Just like always.

The auction gift he'd given her made his intentions clear - she'd be delivering his present to Margaret herself.