Chapter 313

Oliver's words hung in the air. "Or perhaps they're simply unaware of Isabella's past?"

Many had assumed there was something romantic between Isabella and Nathaniel.

Ever since discovering Isabella was also Frederick's student, Julian had observed their interactions closely. He found no trace of romantic involvement between them.

He couldn't tell if Melissa genuinely wanted them together or if there were ulterior motives behind her words.

But one thing was certain - given Isabella's accomplishments, she was worthy of anyone, regardless of her past.

"They likely know," Julian replied.

Oliver's eyes widened. "Then why would they—"

He stopped mid-sentence, realization dawning. "Wait... so Isabella has actually fallen for Nathaniel? She no longer loves Alexander?"

Before Julian could respond, Oliver connected the dots.

"No wonder she remained so composed during the divorce proceedings. She didn't even fight for Sophia's custody. I thought she was scheming to win Alexander back, but she already had Nathaniel lined up."

"Having Sophia would have complicated marrying into the Graves family."

Julian remained silent.

Oliver was genuinely shocked the Graves family would accept Isabella under these circumstances.

When Alexander approached moments later, Oliver couldn't resist sharing. "Julian and I overheard Nathaniel's mother speaking with guests earlier. From her tone, she seems supportive of Isabella marrying Nathaniel."

"I suspect the wedding will happen shortly after your divorce is finalized."

Alexander arched an eyebrow, amused. "Is that so?"

"That's exactly how Melissa sounded," Oliver insisted. "Ask Julian if you don't believe me."

Alexander turned to Julian.

After a brief hesitation, Julian nodded.

Melissa's words had indeed suggested as much.

Alexander chuckled but said nothing further.

Just then, Charles arrived, fashionably late among the guests.

Spotting him, Alexander gave Julian's shoulder a pat before moving to greet the older man. "Mr. Montgomery."

Charles ignored him completely. Handing his gift to Eleanor, he exchanged pleasantries before turning to Sophia with a warm smile. "Sophia, come give me a hug."

The girl obeyed immediately.

Charles's eyes crinkled affectionately. "Such a sweet girl."

Sophia peered up at him. "Mr. Montgomery, didn't Mom come with you?"

She'd already asked Alexander about Isabella earlier. He'd told her Isabella was too busy to attend.

But seeing Charles here reminded her how close he was with her mother. His presence without Isabella made her question again.

The guests buzzed with curiosity about the identity of Sophia's mysterious mother.

At her question, many eyes turned - including Dominic's - eager for clues about this enigmatic woman.

Charles smiled kindly. "No, your mother had work commitments."

Sophia sighed. "Oh, okay."

Her manner of addressing Charles confirmed her mother wasn't part of the Montgomery family.

Yet this exchange left guests no wiser about Alexander's ex-wife's identity.

To those unaware of the full story - including Dominic - Charles's response suggested Alexander and Sophia's mother were already divorced.

They assumed the separation had been kept from the child.