Chapter 427

For added security, Isabella arranged for two additional caregivers to tend to Evelyn while discreetly monitoring activities in Room 1003.

That same night, she received word that the patient in Room 1003 - Diana Kensington - had been discharged earlier than expected.

Though no incidents occurred during Diana's hospital stay, Isabella maintained the extra caregivers as a precautionary measure.

She instructed them to remain and continue caring for Evelyn.

Nathaniel Graves was currently immersed in critical negotiations for their autonomous vehicle initiative, keeping him exceptionally busy.

Consequently, Isabella attended the prestigious Corporate Excellence Gala in his stead - an official government event recognizing outstanding business contributions.

Nearly seven hundred corporate leaders filled the grand ballroom.

Isabella arrived fashionably late.

The moment she entered, Julian Montgomery excused himself from his conversation and immediately approached.

"Ms. Sinclair, what a pleasure to see you."

She offered a polite nod. "It's been too long, Julian."

Victoria Kensington stood nearby, representing InnovaTech as expected.

Julian had been watching the entrance since the gala began. Spotting Isabella, he'd rushed over without hesitation.

Victoria pressed her lips into a thin line and averted her gaze.

The Grandeur's seating placed them near the front, adjacent to Harper Corporation's delegation.

After brief pleasantries, attendees returned to their assigned seats.

The Fleming Group's reserved seats neighbored The Grandeur's.

Isabella had noticed Victoria in the crowd but saw no sign of Alexander, assuming he wouldn't attend.

Unexpectedly, as she settled into her seat and greeted her other neighbor, Alexander appeared and took the chair beside her.

She deliberately avoided acknowledging him, but he nodded politely. "Just arriving?"

Isabella remained silent.

The executive on her other side leaned forward to greet Alexander.

After exchanging pleasantries, the man nearly commented on how striking the pair looked together.

Remembering their respective relationships, he caught himself.

Instead, he glanced at Julian seated beyond Alexander and remarked, "What an impressive gathering of young visionaries in this row. Truly inspiring company."

Alexander engaged briefly before the man returned to his seat.

With their divorce finalization mere days away, Julian studied the estranged couple.

They sat inches apart yet worlds away. Beyond Alexander's initial greeting, complete silence prevailed between them.

Alexander turned to Julian. "It's been weeks. What's kept you occupied?"

"Our biotech venture hit unexpected complications. Required considerable travel."

"Still unresolved?"

"Progressing slowly."

"Need assistance?"

Julian shook his head. "We're managing."

Alexander nodded, then shifted his gaze to Isabella. Sensing his attention, she instinctively turned.

He remarked, "I reviewed those research papers you mentioned. Fascinating work. Though I've developed some follow-up questions—"

Isabella turned away sharply, cutting him off.

Alexander simply smiled and let the matter drop.

Despite InnovaTech's recent notoriety, its valuation couldn't compare to industry giants like The Grandeur and Fleming Group.

Thus Victoria found herself seated in the third row.

From her vantage point, she watched the trio up front, her lips pressing tighter with each passing moment.