Chapter 192

Isabella grabbed her laptop and headed to Frederick's house with Nathaniel for dinner.

After the meal, Frederick helped her go through her thesis revisions.

It was late when she finally got into the car to drive home. That's when Caroline called.

She had originally booked cruise tickets for tomorrow to take William and Edward on a day trip, but a family emergency came up, forcing her to cancel. She couldn't take the boys anymore.

"I've got it," Isabella said immediately. "I'm free tomorrow. I'll take them."

She'd barely hung up when her phone rang again. This time, it was Julian.

Before he could speak, Isabella cut in, "If this is about Lily, I already have plans tomorrow-"

Julian didn't hang up. Instead, he asked, "Would you mind sharing what those plans are?" Then added, "Lily really wants to see you."

Seeing no reason to hide it, Isabella explained the situation.

"A cruise?" Julian sounded intrigued. "Lily would love that. Mind if we join you?"

Isabella paused, then said, "Let me check with my cousins first."

"Of course," Julian replied.

Five minutes later, Isabella called back with confirmation.

The next morning at 8:15, Isabella arrived at Maplewood Docks with William and Edward.

Julian and Lily were already waiting.

"Ms. Isabella!" Lily came running the moment she spotted her.

Isabella crouched to hug the excited girl. "Hello, Lily. It's been too long."

Seeing William and Edward's confused looks, Isabella made introductions.

Julian greeted them warmly. "Hello, gentlemen." He produced two gift bags. "Wasn't sure what you'd like, so I brought small tokens. Hope you'll enjoy them."

The gesture caught everyone off guard - even Isabella.

After brief pleasantries, they boarded the vessel.

William and Edward already knew about Isabella's impending divorce from Alexander.

Watching her hold Lily's hand while chatting with Julian, William shot Edward a look that clearly asked: Future brother-in-law?

Edward shrugged subtly in response: Maybe?

Seeing the adults distracted, William leaned in. "He's handsome," she whispered.

And far more approachable than their soon-to-be ex-brother-in-law.

But seeing Isabella interact so warmly with Lily gave them mixed feelings.

They knew not only about the divorce, but also that Isabella likely wouldn't get custody of Sophia.

Alexander refused to budge, and Sophia herself rarely visited the Sinclair family despite being back in the country.

The girl clearly preferred her father.

They couldn't imagine how much that must hurt Isabella.

Now, seeing her potentially moving on, they wanted to support her. So they joined in playing with Lily.

If Isabella did marry Julian someday, being kind to his family now might ensure the Montgomerys treated their cousin well in return.