Chapter 352

The moment Isabella stepped back into her office, her phone lit up.

Sophia was calling.

Remembering Alexander's words in the meeting about dinner plans that would include Sophia, she stared at the screen without answering.

Three consecutive calls went unanswered before a text popped up.

Mom, I have a fencing competition next month. Can you come to my practice session tomorrow morning?

Isabella's grip on the phone tightened.

Since Alexander took Sophia to Salzburg two years ago, she'd missed countless milestones.

She didn't know what classes Sophia was taking. Had no idea about her extracurricular activities.

Before filing for divorce, she'd tried asking Sophia about these things. But her daughter had shut her out.

If not for this text, she wouldn't have known Sophia was learning fencing at all.

And a competition? That was completely new information.

She'd missed so much of her daughter's life already.

The phone screen blurred as she lost herself in thought.

A knock at the door snapped her back. "Come in."

Kieran Blackwood entered with work documents. When it came to business, he was all professionalism.

Tomorrow was Saturday.

After finalizing their discussion, he hesitated. "I saw an incredible ballet performance last month."

"There's another show this weekend. Would you like to join me?"

Sophia's text flashed in her mind. "I have plans tomorrow," she declined. "Rain check?"

Disappointment flickered in his eyes. "Of course."

Another message arrived. Mom, please answer me.

Isabella typed quickly: I'll be there tomorrow. Send me the time and location.

Kieran took the hint and excused himself.

Sophia's call came through immediately. "Mom! You're really coming tomorrow?"

Isabella hummed in confirmation.

"So when are you coming home tonight?" Sophia's voice bubbled with excitement.

"Not tonight." Isabella focused on her computer screen. "Just text me the practice details. I'll meet you there."

Sophia stood in the grand foyer of the Whitmore estate, watching the staff bustle about.

She couldn't remember the last time her mother had walked through these doors.

The realization stung. But tomorrow's plans lifted her spirits. "Okay! Dad will send you the info!"

Isabella paused. "Alright."

"You're home now?"

"Just got back."

"Good." Another pause. "I need to get back to work. Take care, sweetheart."

"You too, Mom!"

The line went dead.