Chapter 282

The office lights dimmed as Isabella and Nathaniel left work, making a quick stop at Frederick's villa.

Frederick was deep in conversation on the phone, his brow furrowed. Spotting them, he ended the call and gestured for them to sit. "Your research has caught some attention. There are people who want to meet you. I'll arrange an introduction soon."

Isabella nodded. "Understood."

Her project had just been officially recognized as a national initiative. Frederick then briefed her on the expectations moving forward.

Later, Isabella and Nathaniel sought Frederick's advice on another matter. By the time they left, the clock had struck midnight.

The next morning, they returned to YodaVision Co. Isabella sifted through the pre-screened resumes for the technical department.

Halfway through, she froze. Nathaniel, sitting beside her, noticed her sudden tension. "What's wrong?"

She held up a sheet. "It's Victoria Kensington's resume."

Nathaniel smirked. "She actually applied? The woman never quits."

Isabella said nothing, setting the resume aside without another glance.

Nathaniel had an out-of-town trip that afternoon. "You'll handle the forum in two days?"

"Of course," Isabella replied.

The forum, hosted by the local government, was an exclusive event with only thirty companies invited.

Isabella arrived as YodaVision's representative. Stepping out of her car, she nearly collided with a familiar face. She averted her gaze and climbed the steps without a word.

Dominic Fairchild watched her retreat. As he moved to follow, a voice called out, "Mr. Fairchild."

He turned to see Alexander Whitmore approaching. "Mr. Whitmore."

They shook hands. "Long time no see."

"Indeed," Dominic replied.

They ascended the stairs together, chatting until they reached the conference room. Each seat bore a company nameplate.

Inside, Isabella was already seated. Dominic halted when he saw her. Alexander's place was beside hers, yet he showed no reaction.

The rectangular table placed Dominic directly across from them.

Alexander nodded at Dominic before taking his seat. Isabella remained engrossed in her phone, ignoring him entirely.

He leaned slightly toward her. "You've lost weight. Busy schedule?"

She didn’t acknowledge him, flipping through her documents instead.

Just then, someone approached Alexander, pulling him into conversation.

Soon, the room filled. Government officials, led by Walter Ashford, entered. Walter paused at the sight of Isabella and Alexander.

Like Theodore Sinclair, he hadn’t known Isabella’s husband until Theodore mentioned it after their dinner. Now, observing them, they seemed anything but married—more like strangers. Walter looked away.

The forum began. Neither Isabella nor Alexander spoke unless it was their turn to address the room.