Chapter 281

The dinner was in full swing when Oliver suddenly remembered something. He turned to Victoria with a knowing smile. "Speaking of opportunities, YodaVision is actively expanding their team. Have you considered reapplying?"

Though she'd been traveling abroad recently, Victoria had kept tabs on YodaVision's developments. The cutting-edge technology they offered was undeniably tempting—working there would undoubtedly elevate her career.

Yet hesitation lingered.

Oliver, perceptive as always, guessed her concern. "Ran into an old contact yesterday," he remarked casually. "Apparently, Nathaniel isn't just recruiting technical experts. He's also scouting for experienced management personnel."

The implication was clear.

With YodaVision restructuring, key positions were up for grabs—positions that should have naturally gone to Isabella. But Nathaniel hadn't reserved a single one for her.

That spoke volumes.

Either he was keeping his distance, or their relationship had soured. Either way, Isabella's influence within the company was waning.

Victoria had witnessed Nathaniel's unwavering support for Isabella firsthand—especially during last year's gala, where he'd publicly defended her. For things to shift so drastically now was... unexpected.

But not entirely surprising.

Victoria had always known Isabella couldn't control Nathaniel forever. This moment was inevitable.

A faint smirk curled her lips. "Noted. I'll submit my application soon."

Oliver chuckled, shooting Alexander an amused glance. The man had been unusually quiet. "Alexander spearheaded that InnovaTech project for you. Leaving now might complicate things."

Alexander simply placed a bite of food on Sophia's plate. "Doesn't matter."

Victoria wasn't surprised. He'd always supported her unconditionally, never making her choose. The realization warmed her.

Julian, who'd been occupied since New Year's, listened silently. His expression darkened slightly at the mention of Isabella.

Isabella and Nathaniel were both Frederick's protégés. She'd led YodaVision's research team, pioneering their flagship projects.

Her importance was undeniable—titles meant little to someone like her.

But if she wasn't vying for a position, it meant she had other plans.

At the end of last year, Isabella had expressed her intent to refocus on research. She and Nathaniel had agreed to hand managerial duties to someone else.

Post-New Year, Nathaniel began reaching out to potential candidates. The recruitment process would take time, but he already had a shortlist.

As for her latest research? Isabella had compiled everything and sent it to Frederick three days prior. All that remained was his feedback.

As if on cue, her phone buzzed.

A single message from Frederick:

Come by my office tonight.