Chapter 149

Isabella didn't even receive a glance from Victoria. The apology clearly wasn't meant for her.

Dominic was too preoccupied to notice Isabella's presence. "Just a few minutes delay," he dismissed casually.

"How gracious of you, Mr. Fairchild," Nathaniel rose abruptly, his voice icy. "Now that we're all present, let's not waste any more time. Begin."

Alexander maintained his diplomatic tone. "Our apologies, Mr. Graves. Please proceed."

Nathaniel gave a cold snort before grabbing Isabella's hand and storming out first.

Alexander noticed Nathaniel's possessive grip but quickly averted his gaze, his expression carefully neutral.

Julian, however, kept staring at the couple with undisguised curiosity.

The spotlight remained firmly on Alexander and Victoria throughout the event.

At the test track, staff members addressed them respectfully: "Mr. Whitmore, Ms. Kensington, all systems are ready."

Their deferential manner left no doubt - they considered Victoria the future Mrs. Whitmore.

"Initiate the test," Alexander commanded.

"Yes, sir."

The monitors displayed real-time driving data clearly.

After the test driver completed the circuit, staff invited Alexander and Victoria for a firsthand experience.

Alexander agreed immediately. They entered the vehicle together.

Onscreen, their animated conversation and lingering gazes spoke volumes.

Isabella watched the feed with perfect composure.

Nathaniel looked ready to vomit.

Oliver expressed interest in trying the vehicle, but when Genevieve approached him, Julian cut in sharply. "You go ahead. I'll pass."

Genevieve's words died in her throat.

Maxwell turned to Nathaniel and Isabella. "Mr. Graves, Ms. Sinclair, would you care to test the vehicle?"

As the actual technical experts present, they'd originally planned to evaluate the system. But after today's events, their enthusiasm had evaporated.

Nathaniel scoffed. "Hard pass."

Isabetha leaned close, whispering technical specifications about the engine. "Are you certain you don't want to try?" she murmured.

Nathaniel's eyes narrowed. "How do you know these details?"

Isabella tapped her temple. "Glanced at their data earlier. Photographic memory has its perks."

Nathaniel's mood visibly lifted. "Recreate it with me later."

"Deal." She pulled him into the vehicle.

Thirty minutes later, testing concluded.

Alexander announced, "Thank you for your efforts today. Shall we dine together?"

"Splendid idea," Dominic agreed.

Nathaniel's voice dripped with sarcasm. "Regrettably, we're occupied. Enjoy your meal." He turned sharply. "Maxwell, see us out."

Alexander nodded. "Another time then."

Maxwell hurried to comply. "Of course, sir."

Nathaniel's mocking smirk said everything his words didn't. He exited with Isabella's hand firmly in his.

Simon whispered to Dominic, "Why does Nathaniel seem to despise Alexander and his entourage?"

Dominic had noticed the animosity since their first encounter here.

He'd initially dismissed it as imagination. Now he wasn't so sure.