Chapter 310

The dramatic display sent shockwaves through the airport crowd.

Nathaniel Blackwood and Isabella Lockhart exchanged bewildered glances, completely thrown by the unexpected spectacle.

Julian Blackthorn's expression darkened as he stared at the elderly man kneeling before him. Displeasure radiated from his tense posture.

"Alfred, didn't I explicitly say I'd return to Edinburgh on my own terms?" His voice carried sharp irritation. "This public spectacle is unnecessary!"

The silver-haired butler remained bowed but spoke with quiet determination. "Master Julian, the entire Baldwin family awaits your return with bated breath."

"They fear you might disappear again. I've been instructed to ensure your safe passage." He gestured toward a private jet on the tarmac. "The aircraft stands ready. Please don't make this difficult."

"Ensure my passage?" Julian scoffed, rolling his eyes dramatically. "You mean babysit me. After all these years, Grandfather still insists on controlling everything. Is it any wonder I left?"

His expression softened as he glanced at Isabella. "But this time, you needn't worry. I'm bringing Grandfather's future granddaughter-in-law home with me. I wouldn't dream of running now."

Alfred's eyes brightened instantly as they landed on Isabella. "Ah! This must be the young mistress Julian speaks of." He bowed deeply. "Your grace and beauty perfectly suit our family's heir. You embody everything Old Master Frederick - no, the entire Baldwin clan - desires in his successor's bride!"

Isabella's cheeks burned. She shot Julian an incredulous look, her eyes flashing with silent accusation. When had he informed his entire dynasty about her? The ambush left her no graceful exit.

"The Baldwins?" Nathaniel's gaze sharpened like honed steel as he reassessed the hacker. This carefree tech genius concealed far more than he'd revealed.

"Indeed, Mr. Blackwood." Julian's lips curved into a knowing smile. "Frederick Baldwin, overlord of Edinburgh, happens to be my grandfather."

He straightened, shedding his casual demeanor like a discarded coat. "To be precise, I'm Julian Baldwin - sole heir to the Baldwin fortune. The hacker persona? Merely a diversion to alleviate boredom."

Recognition flashed in Nathaniel's eyes. The Blackwoods of Harborview and Baldwins of Edinburgh stood as rival titans, each dominating their respective coasts while maintaining an uneasy truce.

He'd long sought to meet his counterpart, but the elusive Baldwin heir famously avoided family obligations. That their first encounter should occur through Isabella struck him as bitterly ironic.

"Surprised?" Julian shoved his hands in his pockets, the picture of relaxed confidence. Where Nathaniel exuded icy authority, Julian radiated boyish charm - a stark contrast to their shared elite status.

"I assumed you'd investigated me thoroughly, given our families'... complicated history." His grin turned wolfish. "I've certainly kept tabs on you, Mr. Blackwood. Been living in your shadow since childhood."

Nathaniel's jaw tightened. "Meaning you targeted her deliberately."

"Not entirely." Julian's gaze flicked to Isabella. "Years ago, General Arthur intended to entrust Isabella to my care. I foolishly declined that honor."

His smile turned triumphant. "Now that she's free again, I'm merely claiming what should have been mine all along. Surely her ex-husband won't deny us his blessing?"