Chapter 284

Dominic recounted to Sebastian what he had witnessed earlier.

Sebastian texted back: Isabella and her grandmother made quite an impression on my father and grandfather. Maybe that's why.

From Dominic's perspective, Walter had shown unusual interest in Isabella, treating her with distinct attention. No matter how favorable the impression, they had only met once. It seemed implausible.

Still, Dominic dismissed it after hearing Sebastian's explanation.

The forecast warned of afternoon rain turning to snow. Before Isabella finished lunch, heavy rain had already begun pelting the windows.

After the meal, Walter and other officials gathered with Isabella and corporate representatives for deeper discussions—reviewing last year's production and this year's expansion plans.

Later, Walter publicly thanked the companies for boosting the city's economy, concluding the business forum.

As the event ended, Alexander and Isabella prepared to leave after exchanging handshakes with the officials.

When Isabella shook Walter's hand, he said, "It's freezing today. The roads are already icing over. Drive carefully."

"I will. Thank you, Mr. Ashford," she replied.

She, Alexander, and the other executives walked together toward the parking lot.

Alexander stayed close, murmuring, "Those heels aren't safe on this terrain. Watch your step."

His words carried clearly, drawing glances from nearby businessmen. Isabella had no choice but to respond politely, "I appreciate the concern, Mr. Whitmore. I'll be careful."

The moment reminded her of last year's tech expo, where she had slipped at a dinner. Back then, he'd been so wary of rumors that he hadn't even offered a hand.

Now, his behavior was entirely different. He spoke openly, his tone almost intimate, and initiated conversation despite being mid-discussion with others.

Every executive nearby heard him—including Dominic.

Some remembered the expo incident, where they'd assumed Isabella had staged her fall to seduce Alexander.

YodaVision's sudden rise had thrust Isabella into the spotlight, and rumors about her and Nathaniel had spread.

But now, Alexander's demeanor contradicted past assumptions.

Was he simply being professional, given their companies' collaboration? Yet the casual use of her first name suggested otherwise.

Dominic hadn't attended the expo and knew nothing of the alleged seduction attempt.

All he saw was Alexander approaching Isabella earlier. He'd doubted his own eyes—until now.

The way Alexander spoke left no room for misinterpretation.

Dominic's expression darkened as he watched them.

Isabella had brought an umbrella, anticipating rain, but the wind sliced through the air like blades.

She'd expected slush, not black ice. The steps outside were treacherously slick, forcing her to tread carefully.

The others kept their distance, but Alexander lingered beside her, drawing knowing smirks from associates.

Dominic halted, about to speak—when Isabella's foot slipped.

She pitched forward, but Alexander's arm shot out, catching her waist just in time.

Before she could react, he pulled her flush against him.