Chapter 263

Julian Montgomery's gaze lingered on Isabella Sinclair when he spotted Alexander Whitmore and Victoria Kensington approaching.

Noticing Isabella's unchanged expression at their arrival, he lowered his head with a faint smile. "I'll be right back."

Isabella and Nathaniel Graves both nodded in acknowledgment.

Julian walked over and had barely exchanged greetings with Alexander and Victoria when Dominic Fairchild made his entrance.

The moment Dominic saw Victoria, his steps instinctively carried him toward her.

Victoria glanced at him and offered a polite smile. "Mr. Fairchild."

"Ms. Kensington." Dominic had been swamped with work lately and hadn’t seen her in weeks.

Now, standing before her, admiration flickered in his eyes. He stole another discreet glance before turning to greet Julian and Alexander.

YodaVision had become a critical partner for the Fairchild Group. After a brief exchange with Julian, Dominic made his way to Nathaniel and initiated the conversation.

After the usual pleasantries, he addressed Isabella with a cool, "Ms. Sinclair."

Isabella merely smiled, offering no verbal response.

YodaVision had already sent out invitations for its exclusive banquet, but the Fairchild Group hadn’t received one.

Dominic had only learned of this tonight.

If YodaVision couldn’t even extend an invitation to him, it was unlikely Isabella and Nathaniel would attend the Fairchild Group’s banquet tomorrow.

The realization made his frown deepen.

Neither Isabella nor Nathaniel showed any interest in engaging with him. Nathaniel cut straight to the point. "Mr. Fairchild, we have some old friends to greet. Excuse us."

Without waiting for a reply, they turned and walked away.

Dominic knew full well they simply didn’t want to speak to him. Truthfully, he had hoped to establish a better rapport with Nathaniel.

But despite their long-standing business ties, Nathaniel had never given him an opening. His disdain was so blatant he didn’t even bother masking it.

Dominic pressed his lips together, irritation simmering beneath the surface as he watched them leave.

For the past few months, YodaVision had been the center of attention. Spotting Isabella and Nathaniel, many guests eagerly approached them.

Among them were several recent business partners of YodaVision.

Since their investment conference, Isabella had taken the lead on numerous deals, showcasing her formidable skills in the field.

Some executives had even attempted to poach her, though she’d declined every offer.

Still, they remained cordial, treating her with respect.

Now, seeing her again, one couldn’t resist making another recruitment attempt right in front of Nathaniel.

"Ms. Sinclair, our company ranks among the nation’s top firms. The benefits are unmatched, and we’re open to negotiation on any terms."

These people had nerve.

Isabella smiled politely. "I have no plans to leave YodaVision at this time, but I appreciate the offer, Mr. Holloway."

Vincent Holloway sighed heavily at her refusal.

Moments later, someone noticed his frustration and teased, "Vincent, you look like you just lost a billion-dollar deal."

"Close enough."

Since the man wasn’t a competitor, Vincent confided, "I found an exceptional talent, but she won’t budge no matter what I offer."

"Oh? Who?"

"Ms. Sinclair from YodaVision."

"Her? She seems quite young. Is she really that capable?"

"Absolutely."

His company’s top technical experts—handpicked by Vincent himself—had praised her extensively after their discussions.

For them to speak so highly of her spoke volumes.

Victoria remained oblivious to the praise Isabella was receiving. She was deep in conversation with Jonathan Sterling.

After mingling with a few guests, Dominic stepped aside. Noticing Victoria wasn’t with Alexander, he approached her.

Spotting him, Victoria offered a faint smile. "Mr. Fairchild."

Dominic nodded, then glanced at Jonathan. "And this is...?"

Victoria introduced Jonathan’s background before adding, "He’s my mentor now. I’ve been learning from him and have gained invaluable knowledge."

She had previously expressed her desire to study under Frederick Aldridge and had been working tirelessly toward that goal.

Hearing her now, Dominic realized her determination ran deeper than he’d imagined. His admiration for her dedication grew.

Stepping back, he said, "I’ll leave you to it."

Victoria nodded and resumed her discussion with Jonathan.

Dominic found it hard to look away from her focused expression.

Just then, someone approached him for a conversation, pulling him away.

Later, as Dominic excused himself to head to the restroom, he spotted Isabella and Alexander in a secluded corner.

He froze.

The memory of Alexander embracing Isabella months ago resurfaced abruptly.

Before he could process it, he saw Alexander pick up a slice of cake and offer it to her.

Dominic’s expression darkened. Lips pressed tight, he strode toward them.

Isabella didn’t reach for the cake.

As Dominic neared, Alexander noticed him and turned. "Mr. Fairchild."