Chapter 42

Isabella typed a quick reply. Understood. I'll return shortly.

That evening, she prepared honey-glazed ribs and homemade soup for Sophia. They spent the next two days together at the townhouse.

On Friday, Margaret called, inviting them for a family dinner. Isabella brought Sophia along to the Sinclair estate.

Only Margaret was home when they arrived. The rest of the family were either attending social events or still at school.

Margaret hadn't known about Sophia's return. Her face lit up when she saw the little girl walk in behind Isabella.

Sophia had always been close to her great-grandmother. Within minutes, she had Margaret laughing with her animated stories.

They decided to stay overnight. The next morning, Isabella rose early to make breakfast.

Watching her granddaughter expertly flip pancakes, Margaret sighed. "You never used to cook before marriage."

Isabella smiled knowingly. "It helps me think. I've grown to enjoy it."

Margaret noticed Isabella had gained some healthy weight since her last visit. The hollows in her cheeks had filled out.

After breakfast, Isabella went upstairs to check on Sophia. The girl was already brushing her teeth in the ensuite.

While gathering Sophia's pajamas, Isabella noticed a message flash on her tablet screen.

From Victoria Kensington: "Sophia darling, I'm returning this afternoon. Let's have dinner tonight. I'll take you shopping tomorrow."

Isabella deliberately looked away as she tossed the pajamas into the laundry hamper.

When she returned, Sophia was clutching her tablet. The girl quickly hid it behind her back when she saw Isabella.

"Pancakes are ready," Isabella said casually. "Let's go eat."

Sophia bounded off the bed. "Mom's pancakes! I've missed these!"

At the breakfast table, Margaret asked, "What would you like for dinner, sweetheart? I'll have the chef prepare it."

Sophia hesitated. She knew Margaret disapproved of Victoria. "Grandma...Dad's coming home tonight. I should have dinner with him."

Margaret's smile faltered, but she didn't protest. Over the past two years, Sophia had grown attached to Alexander.

Isabella pretended not to notice the lie. She served Margaret another portion. "I'll stay here with you."

It was unconventional for a wife to remain at her family home when her husband returned. But given Alexander's treatment of Isabella, Margaret couldn't care less about propriety.

"That's my thoughtful girl," Margaret said warmly.

Sophia looked relieved. Now she wouldn't need to make excuses to meet Victoria.

When it was time to leave, Margaret tried to pack snacks for Sophia.

Isabella intercepted them. "Save these for Charles' children."

She didn't accompany Sophia to the door. Instead, she called Alexander's butler to arrange transportation.

Margaret found this odd but didn't question it.