Chapter 262

Isabella noticed but remained indifferent.

Julian's sudden warmth toward her was purely business-related - a direct result of their YodaVision collaboration.

Oliver shared the same assessment.

This marked Julian's third encounter with Isabella.

"That woman," he asked casually, "is she Julian's lover?"

Oliver nearly spat out his drink. "Lover? Absolutely not. Don't invent rumors."

Being new to Salzburg, Calvin lacked context.

Both Oliver and Victoria assumed his assumption stemmed from Isabella's striking beauty and her undeniable chemistry with Julian.

"I see."

Yet Julian hadn't taken his eyes off Isabella since spotting her. That intensity suggested deeper feelings.

Even if they weren't involved now, Julian clearly had feelings for her.

Julian had noticed Victoria and Oliver's lingering stares.

As his meeting time approached, he bid Isabella a brief farewell.

Then he paused. "You're not attending The Grandeur's gala this weekend, are you?"

"No," Isabella confirmed.

Her definitive answer stirred something in Julian's chest. With a curt nod, he turned to leave.

Approaching Oliver, he nearly collided with Alexander's arrival.

Alexander's gaze flickered toward Isabella momentarily before dismissing her entirely. "Shall we begin the meeting?"

Julian noted Alexander's complete disinterest in his soon-to-be ex-wife.

His eyes darkened imperceptibly.

Before ascending, Alexander addressed Calvin. "Have you seen my office yet?"

"Not yet."

"I've prepared refreshments. Feel free to visit if you grow bored."

In just days, Alexander and Calvin had developed an easy rapport.

Post-meeting, The Grandeur's executives gathered for lunch.

Though neither high-ranking, Victoria and Calvin joined Alexander's car due to their personal connections.

Departing, Julian glanced back at The Grandeur's towering structure, thoughts lingering on Isabella. "When will Alexander's divorce finalize?" he asked Oliver.

Assuming professional concern, Oliver answered, "Delayed by share transfers in one of Alexander's companies. Soon, though."

"Understood."

At noon, Isabella dined with colleagues in The Grandeur's cafeteria.

After a brief rest, she resumed work.

By three, her tasks complete, she returned to YodaVision.

Come evening, Isabella arrived at Harper Corporation's gala with Nathaniel.

Hearing of their arrival, Julian went to greet them - then froze at the sight of Isabella.

Tonight she wore a breathtaking ombré gown, shifting from sapphire to amethyst, the off-shoulder design showcasing her luminous skin.

The flowing silhouette accentuated her natural grace.

Julian had never seen her so radiant.

Composing himself, he stepped forward. "Mr. Graves. Ms. Sinclair."

Nathaniel and Isabella returned the greeting in unison. "Mr. Montgomery."

Their pleasantries were interrupted by Alexander and Victoria's arrival.

Victoria's couture white gown and dazzling jewels made a striking impression.

Yet spotting Isabella, she faltered momentarily.

Isabella outshone every previous appearance.

But Victoria's confidence never wavered. Beauty meant nothing without substance - and she had both.

With that assurance, she turned to Alexander.

Noting his dispassionate glance toward Isabella, Victoria allowed herself a small, satisfied smile.