Chapter 122

Alexander had made it clear he wouldn't be attending the celebration.

Isabella saw no reason to press further.

She ended the call without another word.

For years, she'd invited Alexander to join them at the Sinclair estate for Margaret's birthday. Yet he hadn't even noticed she'd stopped extending the invitation this time.

After hanging up, Alexander handed the phone back to Sophia. "Your mother will pick you up for Grandma's party tomorrow evening. Behave yourself on Saturday and don't wander off."

Sophia pouted. "But—"

Alexander's impassive stare silenced her.

Realizing negotiation was futile, the girl mumbled, "Fine..."

"That's my girl." He gave a curt nod.

Sophia jutted her chin stubbornly. "I want to visit Victoria on Sunday. And you're coming with me."

"Agreed." A faint smile touched his lips.

Friday evening found Isabella arriving at Whitmore Manor after work.

Alexander's presence in the foyer surprised her—he rarely returned this early.

He was on a call when she entered. Noticing her arrival, he inclined his head briefly before turning away to continue his conversation.

Richard had prepared dinner, expecting Isabella and Sophia to eat before leaving for the Sinclairs'.

But Isabella insisted on dining at her family's estate.

Richard hesitated, glancing at Alexander for guidance.

Still on his call, Alexander moved the phone slightly from his ear. "Do as Mrs. Whitmore says," he instructed before resuming his conversation.

Isabella turned to Sophia. "Let's go, sweetheart."

"Okay!" Sophia waved at Alexander. "Bye, Daddy!"

He returned the gesture. "See you later."

Without exchanging a word with Alexander, Isabella led Sophia out.

He watched them leave, offering no further farewell.

This year's celebration for Margaret was particularly lavish. After arriving at the Sinclair estate and eating, Isabella helped with final preparations.

By the time everything was ready, midnight approached.

She rose early the next morning.

Before breakfast, Isabella, Charles, and several relatives gathered around Margaret to offer birthday wishes and present their gifts.

Sophia tugged Isabella's sleeve anxiously when she saw the gifts. "Mom..."

Isabella crouched to her level. "What is it?"

The girl's cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "I forgot to get Grandma a present," she whispered.

Then, with childish accusation, she added, "Why didn't you remind me?"

Isabella smoothed her daughter's hair. "I brought gifts from myself, your father, and Nana. You're still young—it's understandable. But next time, remember to prepare something for Grandma."

Her tone was gentle, but her eyes held a chill.

True, she hadn't reminded Sophia.

Yet if the girl truly cared, she would have remembered on her own.

The gift didn't need to be extravagant—a simple drawing or asking Isabella to take her shopping yesterday would have sufficed.

But Sophia hadn't mentioned it until now.

The contrast with how she treated Victoria was stark.

For Victoria's birthdays, Sophia would count down the days with palpable excitement.

Isabella recognized the lack of sincerity.

That's precisely why she hadn't reminded her.