Chapter 246

"Alright then."

"I should go now. Work's waiting," Isabella added.

"Bye, Mom!"

The call ended abruptly.

After a quick breakfast, she headed straight to the office.

Yesterday's chaos seemed to carry over into today's relentless schedule.

But by some miracle, she managed to slip out early to have lunch with Margaret at the Sinclair residence.

Something felt off the moment she arrived. Margaret's usual cheerful demeanor was missing.

Her eyes scanned the living room. No sign of Sophia.

Probably out dining with Alexander again.

Isabella kept her expression neutral, but Margaret noticed how attached Sophia had become to Alexander.

With a concerned frown, Margaret said, "Bella, when things calm down at work, you really should spend more time with Sophia. Otherwise—"

Isabella nodded absently. "I know. I will. Let's eat first."

Margaret sighed, letting the subject drop.

After dinner, they exchanged some small talk before Isabella retreated upstairs.

At precisely 9:07 pm, the security intercom buzzed, announcing a visitor.

Isabella glanced at the monitor. Alexander's car.

Her phone rang before she could react.

Sophia's caller ID flashed on the screen.

Margaret emerged from her room just as the security guard granted Alexander access.

Isabella answered briefly before hanging up.

Moments later, Alexander's sleek black car pulled up to the Sinclair estate.

"Mom! I'm home!" Sophia burst out of the car excitedly.

Isabella forced a smile. Margaret's face lit up at the sight of her granddaughter.

The car door remained open. Alexander stepped out carrying Sophia's forgotten backpack and a pastry box.

Isabella remained silent.

"Oh! Thanks Dad!" Sophia beamed as she noticed her belongings.

Alexander simply nodded, his gaze shifting between Isabella and Margaret. "Good evening, Mrs. Sinclair."

Margaret gave a curt nod. Isabella reluctantly took the pastry box from Alexander's outstretched hand.

"Mom, you have to try this cake—" Sophia began enthusiastically.

"Sophia," Isabella interrupted, "say goodbye to your father."

Sophia blinked. "Dad's leaving already?"

Alexander smiled faintly. "Yes."

"Okay. Bye Dad!"

"Goodnight."

With a final nod to Margaret, he turned and disappeared into his car.

Isabella ushered Sophia inside without a backward glance, the pastry box in one hand, Sophia's small hand in the other.

The car's engine faded into the night.

"Mom! Grandma! Dad got your favorite strawberry cake!" Sophia announced proudly as they entered.

The faintest trace of Victoria's perfume lingered on Sophia's clothes.

Isabella set the cake aside. "We just ate. We'll have it later."

Margaret nodded in agreement.

Sophia's shoulders slumped slightly.