Chapter 16

Sophia Whitmore showed no remorse for publicly humiliating Charlotte earlier. The opinions of her classmates meant nothing to her.

Yet as Isabella Sinclair turned to leave, an unexpected tightness gripped Sophia's chest. "Mom—"

Isabella paused, wrapping her arms around her daughter. "Yes, sweetheart?"

"I want to—"

Sophia suddenly remembered how long it had been since she'd tasted her mother's homemade cooking. The realization struck her with unexpected longing.

But then she recalled her plans to watch Victoria Kensington's competition that evening. Her grip loosened as hesitation flickered across her face.

"Never mind."

Her mother's cooking could wait—there would always be another time. Victoria's competition, however, was a rare event.

The decision came easily.

"Alright then. Don't keep your teacher waiting."

"Okay."

Sophia finally released her hold, but paused at the classroom door. "Mom, don't forget to call me at lunch."

Isabella smiled warmly. "I won't."

Only then did Sophia enter the classroom.

Isabella lingered just long enough to see her daughter confidently introduce herself before taking a seat.

With a final wave, Isabella left for Whitmore Enterprises.

At the office, Benjamin Hayes waited at her desk with an unfamiliar woman in tow.

"This is Olivia Chambers," Benjamin announced. "She'll be taking over your position."

Olivia was stunning—dressed head-to-toe in designer labels. Her assessing gaze swept over Isabella's polished professionalism.

Though her smile didn't quite reach her eyes, Olivia extended a perfectly manicured hand. "Ms. Sinclair, what a pleasure. I'll be shadowing you this week."

"The pleasure's mine," Isabella replied politely.

Olivia continued smoothly, "I just completed my master's at Trellis College. Where did you study? Were you—"

Isabella arched a brow at the mention of Olivia's recent graduation. The girl likely had minimal work experience. Still, Isabella reserved judgment.

After all, she herself had risen to team leader despite others having more impressive academic credentials.

"Ms. Chambers," Isabella interjected gently, "we have a meeting shortly. Let's focus on work."

Olivia laughed, a practiced tinkling sound. "Of course! How silly of me. Business first."

En route to the meeting, Olivia leaned in conspiratorially. "I've heard Mr. Whitmore is devastatingly handsome. True?"

Isabella answered honestly. "He is."

Olivia practically vibrated with excitement. "Now I'm doubly eager to meet him! Though Benjamin mentioned he won't be in today—what a shame."

This was news to Isabella, though not surprising. Alexander managed multiple corporations and rarely spent consecutive days at Whitmore Enterprises.

At lunch, Olivia dragged Isabella to the cafeteria. As they settled with their trays, Isabella reached for her phone.

"Calling your boyfriend?" Olivia teased.

"My daughter, actually."

"You're married?"

"Yes."

Meanwhile, Sophia video-called Victoria Kensington. Alexander Whitmore appeared in frame as well.

Sophia pouted at the screen. "You two are cheating! Having lunch without me!"

"That's because you're at school," Victoria countered. "I'll pick you up later and we'll all have dinner. Deal?"

"Better."

Sophia's eyes narrowed as Alexander placed food on Victoria's plate.

"What would you like for dinner?" Alexander asked casually. "I'll have it prepared."