Chapter 422

The morning sun cast golden streaks across Salzburg as Isabella Sinclair navigated through the bustling streets. After dropping Sophia at her prestigious academy, she headed straight to The Grandeur headquarters.

Her previous meetings with two autonomous vehicle company CEOs - arranged by Nathaniel Graves - had proven disappointing. Neither partnership aligned with her vision for innovation.

That evening found them at the annual tech gala at Maplewood Docks, arriving fashionably early to network. Crystal chandeliers illuminated the ballroom as champagne flutes clinked around them.

Their careful scanning of the room halted abruptly when Alexander Whitmore entered with Victoria Kensington on his arm. Both pairs quickly averted their gazes, the tension palpable even across the crowded venue.

The arrival of Dominic Fairchild and Simon Fairchild added another layer to the evening's dynamics. Dominic, ever the diplomat, approached Isabella's group first.

"Mr. Graves, Ms. Sinclair," he greeted with practiced charm. "What a pleasure seeing you both again."

Their polite but frosty nods spoke volumes. The memory of past conflicts still lingered between them.

Sensing the chill, Dominic smoothly transitioned to Alexander's group. "Mr. Whitmore, Ms. Kensington. You both look splendid tonight."

Alexander acknowledged him with a curt nod while Victoria offered a practiced smile. "Mr. Fairchild. How lovely to see you."

Dominic's gaze lingered a moment too long before he excused himself, leaving the two power couples to their respective circles.

The gala buzzed with energy as industry leaders vied for attention. Isabella and Nathaniel found themselves constantly interrupted by eager executives, their original mission temporarily sidelined.

Across the room, Victoria noticed the shift in how people treated her. No longer just Alexander's beautiful companion, she now commanded respect as InnovaTech's CEO. The billion-dollar company transfer had changed everything.

Simon nudged Dominic. "You have to admit, when it comes to grand romantic gestures, Whitmore sets the bar impossibly high."

Dominic watched Victoria work the room, her emerald gown catching the light. "She's earned every bit of it," he murmured.

Simon raised an eyebrow but held his tongue. Both his best friend and their rival seemed utterly bewitched by the same woman.

"Financial freedom does have its perks," Simon mused. "Being able to gift entire corporations on a whim? I wouldn't mind that power."

Dominic shot him a look. "You'd bankrupt yourself within months."

Their banter was interrupted by murmurs spreading through the crowd. Isabella and Nathaniel had finally connected with their target - the reclusive tech genius from Velotra.

Victoria observed the interaction with keen interest, though the constant stream of well-wishers prevented her from discerning their true purpose tonight. The game, it seemed, was far from over.