Chapter 99

The staff member was heading toward the elevator when he collided with Alexander and his group in the hallway. Oliver asked, "This meal—"

"Madam Sinclair ordered it," the staff replied instantly.

Clearly, he meant Isabella.

Alexander's group didn't pressure the staff. They let him continue his work. After the staff left, Oliver chuckled. "Looks like we won't need to invite Isabella to lunch."

Alexander responded casually, "We should ask her to join us."

Victoria froze at his words. Her lips pursed as she stared at him. Julian and Oliver exchanged surprised glances.

Oliver laughed. "You're right. Mrs. Whitmore Senior explicitly told you to look after Isabella. She'll have our heads if we exclude her from lunch."

The hot spring retreat was Whitmore property. Eleanor likely had her own people monitoring everything. Every move Alexander's group made would be reported back to her.

Victoria relaxed slightly at Oliver's explanation. She'd feared Alexander was developing real feelings for Isabella due to Eleanor's meddling. Clearly, she'd been overthinking.

Julian also looked away after Oliver's remark.

Just then, Sophia returned. Alexander ruffled her hair. "Go upstairs and ask your mother to join us for lunch."

Sophia blinked in surprise. "Mom's coming to lunch?"

"Yes."

Sophia's jaw dropped. She frowned at Victoria. She didn't want her mother joining them. Isabella would undoubtedly target Victoria, ruining everyone's mood.

Victoria smiled warmly. "Go on, sweetheart."

After hesitating, Sophia headed upstairs.

When the doorbell rang, Isabella was already eating. She checked the monitor, saw Sophia, and set aside her meal. Opening the door, she asked, "What is it, Soph?"

Sophia bit her lip before meeting Isabella's gaze. "Hi, Mom. Dad sent me. He wants you to join us for lunch downstairs."

Isabella declined. "I'm already eating here. Enjoy your lunch without me."

Sophia exhaled in relief. "Okay. I'll tell Dad that, alright?"

Isabella noticed Sophia's reluctance. "Sure. Bye."

"Bye!" Sophia chirped, turning to leave. After two steps, guilt struck her.

"Are you sure you'll be okay alone, Mom? Should I stay with you?"

Downstairs was lively and fun. Leaving Isabella alone felt wrong. Yet Sophia's offer lacked enthusiasm—she clearly preferred joining Alexander's group.

Isabella wouldn't force reluctant company. She crouched to Sophia's level. "I enjoy solitude. Go have fun with them."

Sophia brightened instantly. "Alright. I'm going now."

"Go ahead," Isabella said.

Sophia dashed off.

Isabella watched her daughter disappear before closing the door. Alone again, she returned to her meal.