Chapter 237

Isabella purchased movie tickets during lunch. After their meal, they enjoyed the film and spent some time shopping afterward.

While William tried on clothes and Edward browsed collectible figurines, Isabella turned to Sophia. "I'll take you home now."

"Home?" Sophia frowned, sitting beside her. "I don't want to leave yet. Can't I stay at Grandma's one more night? I'll return tomorrow evening."

Isabella sipped her water calmly. "William and Edward have entertained you all day. Tomorrow they need to focus on schoolwork. Your presence would distract them."

"I don't need them to entertain me. I can play games on my tablet alone."

Without further discussion, Isabella discreetly messaged Alexander, requesting someone to collect Sophia later.

Alexander must have been occupied - his reply took unusually long.

After William finished shopping, they strolled briefly before returning to the Sinclair residence.

Margaret and Charles were genuinely delighted to see Sophia. Their affection for the girl was unmistakable.

Sophia possessed remarkable charm.

She even accompanied Margaret on an evening walk after dinner, bringing the older woman visible joy.

Still no response from Alexander.

Sophia ended up spending the night at the Sinclairs'.

The next morning, William and Edward retreated to their rooms to study as planned. True to her word, Sophia remained quietly downstairs, sitting beside Isabella without causing disruption.

Finally, Alexander's message arrived: someone would collect Sophia shortly.

Isabella left it unanswered.

Moments later, Sophia's phone rang. She glanced at Isabella. "It's Dad."

Isabella merely nodded.

Whatever Alexander said made Sophia lower her phone and announce, "Mom, Dad wants to take me out to play..."

"Mm. He mentioned it. Go if you want."

"Okay!"

Thirty minutes later, Alexander's car arrived.

Margaret, as always, hated seeing Sophia leave. She packed an assortment of homemade treats for the girl's return trip.

Watching the departing vehicle, Margaret grumbled, "I used to think him generous. Now? Barely two days and he's rushing to take her back."

Without waiting for Isabella's response, the disappointed grandmother retreated inside.

Isabella's phone rang - Jonathan Blackwood calling.

"I just met with Alexander's lawyer," he reported. "The revised divorce agreement includes three additional properties worth approximately one billion total. Everything checks out."

"Understood."

Jonathan continued, "His lawyer mentioned they can advance a portion of the settlement if you need immediate funds. Your thoughts?"

Yesterday's misunderstanding with Alexander lingered.

The birthday gifts auctioned for Charles had already settled the financial concerns.

Yet Isabella responded, "Proceed with the advance."

Their divorce remained unsettled - circumstances could change. If Alexander offered funds now, why refuse?

Better secure the money than risk its disappearance later.

"Very well," Jonathan agreed. "I'll handle it."