Chapter 131

Silence stretched between Isabella and Alexander.

Isabella's younger cousins rarely had the opportunity to see Alexander in person. Now that he stood before them, their curious gazes lingered.

Years of commanding power had instilled an undeniable authority in Alexander's presence. When he noticed their stares, he acknowledged them with a brief nod.

The intensity of his gaze made them look away immediately, too intimidated to maintain eye contact.

Alexander showed no reaction to their discomfort. His attention shifted elsewhere, his expression remaining impassive.

This was the man Isabella had loved with reckless abandon. Even now, after all this time, she couldn't escape the hold he had on her.

Given how Alexander had treated his own niece for years, it was impossible for Charles not to resent him.

But what could he do?

The Sinclair family was powerless against Alexander.

As the host, Charles had no choice but to extend basic courtesies. He stood, raising his glass. "We didn't expect Mr. Whitmore to join us tonight. Please forgive any shortcomings in our hospitality."

Alexander mirrored the gesture, clinking his glass against Charles's. "You're too kind, Mr. Sinclair."

He deliberately addressed him formally, not as Uncle Charles.

The pointed choice of words didn't go unnoticed. Alexander had no intention of acknowledging the Sinclairs as family.

Isabella had known this truth for years. Now, she neither wanted nor needed his acceptance.

She knew he'd only come because of Eleanor.

Her voice turned icy. "We appreciate Grandmother's kindness. If you have other engagements, don't let us keep you."

His presence was making everyone uncomfortable.

Alexander replied smoothly, "I'm in no hurry."

Isabella frowned, uncertain of his intentions.

Instead of addressing her, Alexander turned to Frederick. "Our company has been developing new stealth technology capable of evading all known radar systems. Mr. Aldridge, would this interest you?"

"All radar systems?" Frederick's expression sharpened with professional curiosity. "Please continue."

Alexander launched into technical details without hesitation, discussing proprietary information openly.

Isabella hadn't expected Alexander to engage her mentor like this. Yet as she listened, she recognized his deep understanding of AI applications.

If Frederick found the topic compelling, how could Isabella and Nathaniel remain indifferent?

What began as polite attention soon became complete absorption. They leaned forward, forgetting their meals entirely.

Charles considered reminding them to eat, but seeing their rapt attention, he held his tongue.

Before tonight, no one present had known Alexander well. His presence should have created tension.

Yet somehow, he'd effortlessly taken control of the conversation.

Of course, tonight's focus remained Margaret.

Alexander knew better than to overshadow the occasion.

After several minutes of discussion, he concluded, "If you'd like to explore this further, Mr. Aldridge, perhaps we could schedule a proper meeting?"

The offer hung in the air between them.