Chapter 126

Just then, Julian and Oliver arrived.

The moment the Kensingtons and their relatives noticed the two, they immediately approached.

After all, these men were anything but ordinary in Salzburg.

It was only natural that they were treated with such reverence.

Genevieve had met Julian before.

The moment she laid eyes on him again, a faint blush colored her cheeks, barely concealed beneath her makeup.

Penelope smirked, noticing Genevieve's reaction.

The Montgomerys were just as prestigious as the Whitmores, and with Julian's undeniable charm, the Kensingtons were more than pleased to see Genevieve's interest in him.

With Alexander and Victoria practically a done deal, and now Genevieve and Julian potentially forming a match, the Kensingtons would undoubtedly solidify their influence in Salzburg.

With that thought, their enthusiasm toward Julian and Oliver grew even more pronounced.

Victoria frowned at her family's behavior.

She found it embarrassingly obsequious.

As friends, she and Julian were equals. Yet, her family was practically fawning over him. How humiliating.

But she couldn’t call them out in front of everyone, so she bit her tongue.

The Kensingtons had climbed the ranks over the past decade, but they still lacked the deep-rooted legacy of families like the Whitmores.

To Julian and Oliver, the Kensingtons simply didn’t measure up.

They tolerated it only out of respect for Victoria.

After presenting their gifts, Julian asked, "Where’s Alexander? He’s not here yet?"

Victoria replied, "He’s been handling some last-minute complications with his overseas business. He worked late the past few nights. Since things aren’t fully resolved, he’ll be arriving later."

Julian and Oliver nodded.

Since Victoria was close with them, she personally escorted them to their seats.

The hour grew late—it was time to begin dinner.

But Alexander, the guest of honor, hadn’t arrived. Lawrence hesitated, unsure whether to proceed.

He turned to Victoria and Eleanor for guidance.

Victoria said, "We can start without him."

The guests had come all this way—it would be rude to keep them waiting, even if they were willing.

But would Alexander mind?

"He won’t," Victoria assured.

She spoke with such certainty, it was clear how close they were.

Seeing the Kensingtons confidently proceed without Alexander only reinforced how much he valued Victoria. The guests took note, their eagerness to strengthen ties with the family growing.

Meanwhile—

Though many guests had left, Margaret ensured every formality was observed without exception.

After confirming all attendees had arrived, she took the stage to express her gratitude and apologize for the earlier disruption. The crowd responded with warm applause.

The moment she finished, Charles signaled the staff to begin serving dinner.