Chapter 218

From that moment on, Victoria Kensington began scrutinizing Isabella Sinclair's every move.

Watching Isabella effortlessly dismantle the trap Alexander Whitmore had set—in a way Victoria never anticipated—sent a chill down her spine.

When Gregory Whitmore praised Isabella's strategy, Victoria's stomach twisted into knots.

Isabella remained completely focused on the chessboard, oblivious to the tension around her.

She was holding her own for now. But victory seemed increasingly impossible.

Pausing mid-game, she locked eyes with Alexander.

He made his countermove.

Isabella froze.

Nathaniel Graves let out an impressed chuckle. "Remarkable. Never thought I'd witness such mastery from someone so young."

Gregory scowled at the interruption. "Quiet!"

Nathaniel raised his hands in surrender.

Minutes later, Isabella executed a brilliant maneuver, subtly reclaiming control of the board.

Alexander responded with equal precision two minutes later.

Then Isabella placed her piece down with finality. "I concede."

The outcome was inevitable now.

Continuing would be pointless.

As she stood to leave, Alexander's voice stopped her. "Best two out of three?"

After only a heartbeat's hesitation, Isabella resumed her seat.

Nathaniel smirked at Frederick Aldridge. "Look at her—cool as ice, yet she can't resist challenging Alexander. How often does she get to play against someone of his caliber?"

Frederick nodded in silent agreement.

Nathaniel goaded further. "Bet you couldn't beat her either."

Though considered second only to Alexander in their circle, Frederick didn't hesitate. "No, I couldn't."

Isabella had only ever played chess against Frederick before today.

While she'd never won against him, Frederick's reactions made it clear—she was already a formidable opponent.

And she was still so young.

Frederick hadn't lost a game since he was fifteen.

Few earned such respect from him, regardless of age or gender.

Isabella's skill was undeniable.

By now, the board had been reset.

Alexander gestured. "Your move first this time?"

"No, you go ahead."

She'd sacrificed several pieces earlier and wanted to test her limits.

Just as Nathaniel suspected, quality opponents were rare for her outside Frederick.

She wouldn't waste this opportunity.

To her, Alexander was simply a worthy challenger—nothing more.

She wouldn't hold back just because of who he was.

Alexander didn't argue and made the opening move.

Silence descended as they played, the only sound being pieces clicking against the board.

Strangely, both Nathaniel and Gregory sensed an unspoken understanding between the players—as if they'd known each other far longer than possible.