Chapter 334

Isabella dialed Julian's number, recalling he'd tried reaching her two days prior.

"Lily just wanted a video call," he explained casually. "Nothing urgent."

With work looming, they kept the conversation brief.

Hanging up, Isabella grabbed her keys and headed to the office.

Fate had Nathaniel pulling into the parking lot simultaneously.

"Back so soon?" he greeted with a teasing smile as they exited their vehicles.

Isabella grinned. "Couldn't stay away."

Alexander's sleek sedan rolled in then, Victoria seated beside him.

Instead of parking, he halted directly before them.

"Good morning, Mr. Graves," they chorused as they emerged.

Nathaniel's smile vanished.

Perfect. Just perfect.

Without acknowledging them, he gripped Isabella's elbow and steered her away.

Alexander and Victoria seemed unbothered.

Once the couple disappeared, Alexander handed his keys to Victoria, opening her door with a murmur. "Drive safe."

Victoria's lips curved as she watched him—then flicked a glance toward Isabella's retreating form. "Always."

Inside the lobby, Nathaniel glanced back while waiting for the elevator.

No sign of Alexander.

Still playing devoted boyfriend in the parking lot?

The elevator doors slid shut. "Arriving together at this hour," he muttered. "Are they cohabiting now?"

Isabella had no confirmation.

But the morning pickup spoke volumes—Alexander bypassing his chauffeur to personally collect Victoria. Never an inconvenience where she was concerned.

Their bond appeared unshakable.

Lily's birthday loomed in two days.

That evening, Isabella selected a plush pink rabbit at the mall.

The elevator doors opened to reveal Victoria and Beatrice ascending.

Victoria's gaze landed on the stuffed animal, clearly assuming it was for Sophia.

Amusement tugged at her lips.

Since aligning with Victoria, Sophia had abandoned such childish toys.

Yet here Isabella was, still attempting to woo her with fluff? Pathetic.

Victoria looked away, bored.

Beatrice barely acknowledged Isabella—just a cursory glance before doting on her granddaughter.

Her affectionate pat on Victoria's arm broadcasted one truth—only this granddaughter held her favor now.

Isabella remained unfazed.

She continued to the parking garage and drove off.

Dawn had barely broken when Frederick called.

After listening, Isabella responded, "Understood."

She immediately contacted Julian.

"An emergency came up for tomorrow morning. I'll prepare Lily's cake in advance—could you deliver it with her gift? And please apologize for my absence?"