Chapter 135

The clock struck noon before Isabella and Nathaniel finally paused their work for lunch.

Just then, Isabella's phone buzzed with a message from Emily. "Skiing this afternoon? Join us!"

Isabella pressed the voice memo button. "Can't today. Have prior commitments. You go enjoy."

"Alright then."

Later that evening, while stepping out of Frederick's study for water, another message arrived from Emily.

This time, it contained photos. The subjects were unmistakable - Alexander, Victoria, Sophia, Julian, and Lily.

Emily's follow-up message popped up: "We were having such fun until we ran into them! Total mood killer."

Isabella only needed to glance at one photo before swiping away the rest.

Her response came calm and measured: "Just focus on your own fun. Ignore them."

Emily's reply was immediate: "We might stay till evening. Want to join?"

"No. Busy."

"Fine then."

Tucking her phone away, Isabella retrieved her water glass and returned to the study. The work continued uninterrupted until nightfall.

Nathaniel stretched his stiff muscles. "Mr. Aldridge, let's treat you to dinner."

Frederick didn't even glance up. "Prior engagement."

Both Isabella and Nathaniel blinked in surprise.

"Dining with Alexander tonight."

Nathaniel shot Isabella a look, but she simply sipped her water, expression unreadable.

Frederick grabbed his keys, pausing at the door. "Lock up when you leave." Then, as an afterthought: "I won't be late."

"Understood, professor."

Meanwhile, Sophia, Alexander, Victoria and their group had spent the entire day skiing in high spirits.

Exiting the slopes, Sophia beamed at Alexander. "Dad, let's have seafood for dinner!"

Alexander tweaked her nose affectionately. "Victoria and I have important business. The car's waiting - tell the chef your preferences when you get home."

Sophia's smile vanished instantly. "What business? Why can't I come?"

Alexander's smile remained gentle but firm. "Adult matters, sweetheart."