Chapter 308

Isabella had no clue what Alexander and Dominic discussed. After her lunch meeting with Nathaniel, she returned to the office to focus on work.

On Wednesday, she received a call from Charles inviting her for dinner that weekend. He casually mentioned, "Josephine will be there too." Isabella hesitated briefly before agreeing.

Friday afternoon found Isabella in the middle of an important meeting when her phone buzzed. Before she could answer, the call disconnected.

With the meeting still ongoing and the number unfamiliar, she dismissed it without a second thought.

The caller had been Josephine.

She'd officially started working at Montgomery Enterprises on Wednesday.

Her intention was to tell Isabella about her new job and permanent move to Salzburg.

But the moment she dialed, Genevieve's words echoed in her mind—how Alexander's inner circle, including Julian, had never warmed to Isabella despite her efforts, while Victoria had been effortlessly accepted.

If Isabella learned about her position at Montgomery Enterprises, she'd immediately suspect Victoria's involvement. That knowledge would only cause pain. The thought made Josephine abruptly end the call.

After work, prompted by Beatrice, she returned to the Kensington estate. Before even entering, she noticed multiple luxury vehicles parked outside—a clear sign of visitors.

Before arriving in Salzburg, Beatrice had mentioned how Victoria's connection to Alexander had become common knowledge among the city's elite.

The extent of Alexander's devotion to Victoria was practically public record in their circles.

Josephine hadn't fully grasped the implications until witnessing it firsthand. The daily parade of high-profile visitors seeking favors from the Kensingtons made their elevated status undeniable.

Seeing these powerful figures—CEOs, politicians, celebrities—personally courting Victoria's family left Josephine speechless.

Only then did she understand how profoundly Alexander's influence had transformed the Kensingtons' social standing.

Yet while Beatrice interacted with these visitors cautiously, Victoria maintained an aloof distance, often avoiding them altogether. Remarkably, none dared take offense, continuing their overtures regardless.

Spotting the luxury cars, Josephine knew more guests had arrived.

She slipped in through a side entrance, moving upstairs unnoticed. Victoria was there, seeking solitude with a book. Glancing up, she asked, "Just finished work?"

Josephine stopped. "Yes."

Since Victoria had already spoken to Julian about the job, she considered the matter settled and paid it little attention.

Turning a page, Victoria suddenly looked up. "Did Julian say anything when you met?"

Watching Victoria read, Josephine marveled at her relentless drive.

Rumors swirled about Victoria recently impressing tech moguls at several high-profile conferences.

Snapping back to attention, Josephine answered, "I haven't met Mr. Montgomery yet."

Victoria paused. "Julian didn't reach out?"

"No."

Victoria had expected Julian, knowing Josephine was connected to her, would at least arrange a meeting and assign someone to mentor her.

Then again, such obvious favoritism might harm Josephine's workplace reputation.

"Never mind," Victoria said dismissively.

Josephine nodded and retreated to her room without another word.

Victoria set her book aside and called Julian. He let it ring several times before answering with a curt, "Hello."

Victoria smiled. "I heard Josephine started at Montgomery Enterprises. Thank you, Julian. Are you free soon? I'd like to take you to dinner."

Julian's tone remained detached. "Josephine earned her position. No thanks necessary."

If he hadn't investigated personally, how would he know her qualifications?

Victoria smiled but didn't press. As she prepared to speak, Julian interrupted, "I'm busy. Another time."

Knowing Julian's recent workload, she simply replied, "Of course," and ended the call without hesitation.

In truth, Julian had no urgent matters. What he truly wanted was to call Isabella.

The moment Victoria hung up, he dialed Isabella's number.