Chapter 235

Isabella turned to Alexander with a composed expression. "My uncle mentioned someone from Whitmore Enterprises approached him about a potential collaboration."

Alexander opened his mouth to respond, but Isabella continued smoothly. "I understand you don't want to feel indebted to me or my grandmother. This is your way of showing gratitude."

She met his gaze steadily. "But when we visit your grandmother at the hospital, we do it for her sake - not yours. There's no need to offer us any business deals."

Her fingers tightened around her phone case. If her family accepted anything from Whitmore Enterprises, the Kensingtons and their allies would undoubtedly create problems.

Even if Alexander's intentions were genuine now, his heart belonged to Victoria Kensington. What if he changed his mind later? Today's favor could become tomorrow's liability. The Sinclairs couldn't afford that risk.

Her voice turned cool. "You can rest assured - once the divorce is finalized, we'll go our separate ways completely. I won't interfere in your life again."

To her, this business offer was just another way for Alexander to establish boundaries between them. Was he so eager to sever ties because he feared she'd cling to him?

That ship had sailed.

Alexander remained silent for several heartbeats before responding. "Understood."

Isabella didn't elaborate. She texted her decision to Charles before joining the others for skiing.

The outing proceeded without incident, though Isabella spent most of her time with William, Edward, and Sophia. Her interactions with Alexander remained strictly necessary, and he didn't initiate conversation either.

At noon, Alexander announced his early departure.

Isabella nodded indifferently. "Fine."

Alexander turned to Sophia. "Sophie, do you—"

"I'm watching a movie with Mom, William, and Edward!" The children had planned this outing together before inviting Isabella along.

Alexander gave a curt nod. "Enjoy."

With a brief glance at Isabella, he left.

Ten minutes later, Isabella's phone rang. Jonathan Blackwood, her divorce attorney, sounded slightly surprised. "Alexander just contacted me. He's preparing a revised divorce agreement by tonight. The main change involves property division—he's adding two or three high-value estates to your settlement."

Isabella's expression didn't flicker.

So this was how he interpreted her refusal? Did he think she'd been playing hard to get? That she still wanted something from him?

Her reply was measured. "I understand. I have no objections. Handle it as you see fit."

Meanwhile, Alexander had already collected Victoria Kensington en route to an upscale restaurant.

The private dining room buzzed with activity when they arrived. Besides the Kensingtons, several other influential guests filled the large table.

Reginald Kensington and Lawrence Kensington beamed when Alexander entered with Victoria.

Victoria took her seat beside Penelope Kensington while Alexander engaged Simon Fairchild and Ronan Sinclair in business discussion.

Penelope leaned toward Victoria, whispering urgently. "Your uncle and I just learned Alexander offered a Whitmore Enterprises project to the Sinclair family!"

Victoria's smile didn't waver. "I'm already aware."