Chapter 234

Sophia dashed over with sparkling eyes. "Look at all this amazing food! And milkshakes too!"

Alexander gave a knowing smile. "I anticipated your arrival, so I made preparations."

His gaze lingered on Isabella, who deliberately avoided eye contact. Turning instead to William and Edward, he gave them a brief nod before standing. "Sit."

The commanding presence Alexander exuded was undeniable.

After greeting Eleanor, William and Edward instinctively obeyed, joining Sophia as she and Alexander distributed the snacks.

Once the children began eating, Alexander handed Isabella a drink. "Try this?"

Noticing Eleanor's watchful eyes, Isabella accepted with a polite, "Thank you."

The first sip revealed strawberry flavor—her absolute favorite.

When Eleanor heard about the skiing plans, she turned to Alexander. "You should join Isabella and the children."

She continued firmly, "Skiing can be dangerous. It's too much for Isabella to supervise three kids alone. Go with them. I have Richard and Margaret here—you don't need to hover over me constantly."

Isabella opened her mouth to protest, but Alexander cut in smoothly, "Understood."

Sophia clapped her hands in delight at the news of her father's participation.

After spending more time at the hospital, Isabella's group prepared to leave.

Alexander gathered his documents before following them out.

They took separate cars, with Sophia, William and Edward riding with Isabella.

At the ski resort, Alexander was adjusting Sophia's goggles when his phone rang. After a brief conversation, he said, "I'll join you later."

Sophia tilted her head. "Daddy, who was that?"

Instead of answering directly, Alexander asked, "Would you rather have lunch with me or your mother?"

Sophia blinked in confusion. "Aren't we all eating together?"

"No," Alexander replied. "I have business to attend to."

Isabella and the others overheard but remained silent.

Alexander ruffled Sophia's hair. "No need to decide now. Go enjoy the slopes first."

"Okay!"

While the children chattered nearby, Isabella adjusted her goggles and met Alexander's gaze. "The divorce still isn't finalized?"

"Not yet," he confirmed.

After a pause, he added, "If you need immediate funds, I can arrange an advance transfer—"

"That's not what I meant," Isabella began, but Sophia's voice interrupted. "Mommy, come see this!"

As Isabella turned to respond, her phone buzzed—a call from Charles.

"Someone from Whitmore Enterprises just reached out," he said excitedly. "They want to discuss a potential partnership!"

Whitmore Enterprises was currently under Alexander's control. With his business acumen, Charles knew such offers never came without strings attached.

He needed Isabella's insight—was this a genuine opportunity or a carefully laid trap?

Isabella remained silent for a long moment.

Ending the call, she turned slowly to face Alexander.