Chapter 124

Some guests hesitated to cross Alexander Whitmore.

Others saw this as the perfect opportunity to align themselves with the prestigious Kensington and Sinclair families.

The Sinclair family had faced financial struggles in recent years. Meanwhile, the Kensingtons and Sinclairs enjoyed Alexander's powerful backing. The choice was obvious.

Arthur Langford left after apologizing to Charles Sinclair.

Isabella Sinclair and Caroline Sinclair initially paid no attention.

But as more guests arrived only to depart quickly, and with dinner service about to begin, the banquet hall grew increasingly empty. Rows of vacant seats finally alerted them that something was wrong.

Frowning, Isabella and Caroline approached. "Why are so many guests leaving? What's happening?"

Charles and Margaret exchanged uneasy glances.

There was no choice but to tell the truth.

Charles explained, "The Kensingtons have relocated to Salzburg and are hosting a housewarming party today. They've personally invited most of our guests, so..."

This explained the rapidly emptying venue.

As he spoke, Charles and Margaret watched Isabella with concern.

They worried this might overwhelm her.

After everything the Kensingtons had done to the Sinclair family, forgiveness seemed impossible. As long as Evelyn remained in the nursing home, the grudge would persist.

It was understandable that Isabella would despise them even more after this birthday sabotage.

But Isabella was made of stronger stuff.

Upon hearing the news, her fingers merely tightened on the table's edge. Then her gaze turned icy as she stated bluntly, "That Whitmore heir is behind this, isn't he?"

How else could the Kensingtons, newcomers to Salzburg, attract so many guests?

Certainly not on their own merits.

"Yes..." Margaret lowered her eyes, tears forming. "I'm sorry, Grandmother."

"This isn't your fault."

Isabella gently cupped Margaret's face. "You were too trusting to anticipate their cruelty."

"Grandmother—"

"It's fine."

Isabella surveyed the nearly empty banquet hall. With so few remaining guests, the space looked desolate. She remarked calmly, "It's just a birthday. Having you all safe and happy is gift enough."

"Never let someone else's malice become your burden, understand?"

Her words carried unspoken echoes of Evelyn's tragedy.

Immediately, Margaret and Charles responded, "We understand."

Margaret had invited Nathaniel Graves and Emily Donovan.

They arrived just then.

Both knew the bitter history between the families.

Upon hearing what happened, Emily cursed, "Disgusting! I've never met people so shameless!"

Nathaniel gave Margaret's shoulder a reassuring squeeze.

Moments later, his phone buzzed. Reading the message, he paused before saying, "I'll bring in some reinforcements."

Margaret blinked. "What?"

Nathaniel smiled mysteriously. "You'll see."

Meanwhile, at the Kensington residence's banquet hall...