Chapter 267

Nathaniel had visited the Sinclair residence previously, so he delivered the fireworks without delay.

As for Julian, to prevent any complications, Isabella provided him with an address close to the Sinclair home instead.

At approximately 2:00 pm, Isabella drove to the designated meeting location.

During their phone conversation, Julian mentioned he'd send someone to deliver the fireworks. But when she parked and stepped out, Isabella was taken aback to find Julian waiting in person.

"You made it," Julian said.

"Mm-hmm."

"Pop the trunk."

After Isabella complied, Julian loaded not just the fireworks but several gift boxes as well.

Seeing the additional packages, Isabella protested, "These really aren't necessary—"

"Lily insisted I bring them," Julian explained.

She then placed a handmade friendship bracelet and some afternoon purchases into Julian's vehicle. "These are for Lily."

Julian's lips curved. "Much appreciated."

Among her gifts, his attention caught on a plush rabbit. He lifted it questioningly. "And this?"

"It's a light-up toy wand," Isabella clarified. "I bought two—a bear and a rabbit. Children usually love them."

Julian inspected them. Both plush wands boasted festive, adorable designs.

He nodded approvingly. "Lily will adore them. Thanks."

"Just a simple gift exchange—no thanks needed."

After replacing the wand, Julian gestured toward a nearby café. "Care to grab a coffee?"

Isabella shook her head. "Can't stay. I've got errands to run."

Margaret was being discharged from the hospital that evening. She needed to accompany her grandmother there.

Julian paused. "Understood."

With minimal further conversation, Isabella entered her car and departed.

Shortly after arriving home, she and Margaret collected their prepared gifts for Eleanor and headed to the hospital. They'd already notified Eleanor in advance.

Upon arrival, only Eleanor and her caretaker, Margaret Thornton, occupied the hospital room.

Whether to avoid awkwardness or for other reasons, Sophia was conspicuously absent.

Margaret Sinclair's face fell momentarily before schooling her expression.

Eleanor noticed immediately.

She was also aware of Isabella and Alexander's impending divorce.

Since New Year's Day—when Richard returned without Isabella—Eleanor had realized that even before the official divorce, Isabella was already severing ties with the Whitmore family. She'd guessed Isabella wouldn't be celebrating Ember Festival at Whitmore Manor this year.

Regarding Sophia's custody, she'd broached the subject with Alexander days prior. But he remained unmovable.

When she'd asked where Sophia would spend Ember Festival, he'd said it was her choice.

However, Sophia had been traveling abroad and was only returning tonight, leaving Eleanor no opportunity to ask.

Seeing her old friend's disappointment, Eleanor's guilt intensified.

The truth was, Sophia had grown increasingly attached to Alexander. Without Sophia's explicit consent, Eleanor couldn't promise Margaret or Isabella anything.

Though silent, both Margaret and Isabella understood her position.

So they avoided mentioning Sophia, sticking to lighter topics and inquiring about Eleanor's recovery. Within half an hour, discharge time arrived.

Not wanting to overstay, Isabella and Margaret prepared to leave.

Eleanor had gifts prepared as well, which her staff brought down to the lobby.

Shortly after their departure, Alexander arrived.

Eleanor knew he'd timed his visit to avoid crossing paths with Isabella.

The divorce was inevitable—she couldn't stop it.

Watching Alexander skillfully peel an apple at her bedside, Eleanor pressed her lips together. "Alexander, Sophia is Isabella's biological daughter. Can't you at least grant her custody?"

Alexander continued peeling with practiced ease. "Sophia is my daughter too."

Eleanor's temper flared. "You barely acknowledged her these past years, and now you fight for custody?"

He arranged the sliced apple neatly on a plate. "I've changed."

Eleanor turned away, refusing the offering.

Alexander set the plate down. "Grandmother, this is between us. Please don't interfere."

After completing discharge formalities, he first escorted Eleanor back to Whitmore Manor. Later, he'd collect Sophia from the airport himself.