Chapter 222
Isabella smiled at Sebastian's invitation. "Okay."
They moved forward with the crowd.
As they reached the railing, dazzling fireworks erupted across the river. The crowd gasped and laughed, their voices swallowed by the thunderous explosions.
People snapped photos while others closed their eyes to make wishes.
Sebastian noticed Isabella simply watching in silence. "Want me to record this for you?"
She shook her head. "Just watching is perfect."
He didn't press further.
At that moment, Victoria's gaze swept across the crowd.
Though separated by several meters, Sebastian's towering height and striking features made him instantly recognizable. Having met him before, they were at least acquaintances.
Victoria was about to point him out to Alexander, who held little Sophia, when she suddenly spotted the figure half-hidden behind Sebastian.
Isabella.
Victoria's smile froze.
Why were they here together? Fireworks shows were for families or couples.
Aside from one dance at a gala, Isabella and Sebastian had barely interacted. What brought them here now?
She looked again. Definitely just the two of them.
"Victoria, look! It's amazing!" Sophia tugged at her sleeve, not wanting her to miss the spectacle. She cupped her hands around Victoria's ear, bubbling with excitement.
Victoria forced a smile. "Yes, darling. I see it."
Alexander noticed her distraction. "Everything alright?"
"Perfect," she lied.
Sophia was too enthralled by the fireworks to notice Isabella nearby.
But when Alexander turned to speak, his gaze landed on Isabella.
Since Sebastian was talking to her, Isabella happened to be looking in their direction.
Their eyes locked.
Isabella stiffened, pressed her lips together, and looked away.
Just then, Sebastian turned toward the fireworks, his profile now visible to Alexander.
Even in silhouette, Alexander recognized him instantly.
Seeing Alexander notice the pair, Victoria remarked, "I didn't expect to see them here together."
Alexander merely hummed in response, his expression unreadable.
Victoria's smile faltered. The thought of Isabella and Sebastian together made her stomach twist. Her eyes drifted back to Isabella.
Sebastian chose that moment to glance their way.
Noticing Victoria's stare, he gave a polite nod.
She returned the gesture with practiced grace.
Normally, he would have gone over to greet her. But given the tension between Isabella and Victoria, he stayed put.
Victoria's brow furrowed slightly before she looked away.
After that one glance, Alexander never looked at Isabella again.
As for Sophia? She was too busy capturing the fireworks with Alexander's phone to notice Isabella standing nearby.