Chapter 440

Isabella held Sophia's small hand while reaching for Alexander with the other. "Let's have lunch together!" She hesitated, almost pulling away, until Sophia whispered, "I can't remember the last time we all ate together as a family."

Seeing Sophia's radiant smile as she swung between them, noticing other children with both parents at the school gates, Isabella's resolve wavered.

She'd chosen to keep the baby despite the unexpected pregnancy. For years, Alexander had been absent from Sophia's life until recently reconnecting. But this new involvement had ironically created more distance between mother and daughter. Sophia had never known what a complete family felt like.

The realization struck Isabella like a physical blow. She'd given Sophia life, raised her alone - yet deprived her of a normal childhood. Whatever future she and Alexander might have, they would always remain Sophia's parents. Even after the divorce, they'd need to co-parent responsibly.

"Mommy?" Sophia tugged her hand, eyes wide with hope.

Isabella glanced at Alexander, finding him already watching her with that uncanny ability to anticipate her thoughts. "Where should we eat?" he asked casually.

"You choose," she replied, turning away to hide her conflicted emotions.

They took separate cars to The Grandeur. In the private dining room, Sophia beamed from her seat between them.

Alexander passed the menu to Isabella first. "Still coming to Whitmore Industries this afternoon?"

"I have prior engagements." Her tone was clipped as she accepted the teacup he poured.

"Sophia's birthday is next month," Isabella changed the subject. "How are you planning to celebrate?" She hadn't attended the last two birthdays. Last year's attempt to visit Salzburg had ended disastrously when Alexander ignored her messages and Sophia seemed content without her.

"You make the arrangements," she said lightly, already knowing custody would go to Alexander post-divorce. She might not even attend.

"Mommy, please come?" Sophia's hopeful voice cracked her resolve.

"We'll see," Isabella deflected, unable to promise.

Alexander fielded multiple business calls throughout lunch. The strained silence between courses was punctuated only by Sophia's cheerful chatter.

As Isabella prepared to leave, Sophia clung to her sleeve. "Just a little longer? Please?" The desperation in those big eyes shattered her defenses.

Alexander, having finished his calls, suggested the arcade across the street. Isabella focused entirely on teaching Sophia the games, pointedly ignoring the man hovering behind them.

"Daddy, play with us!" Sophia eventually called out.

Alexander's gaze flickered to Isabella's rigid posture. "I'm happy watching my two favorite girls," he said softly, that familiar half-smile playing on his lips.

Sophia shrugged and returned to the game, while Isabella steadfastly ignored the warmth spreading through her chest at his words.