Chapter 355

In Sophia's world, there was no space for her, Alexander, and Victoria to exist together.

She had specifically asked Isabella to attend her competition without extending the invitation to Victoria. The message was clear—she understood how things stood between them.

On an important day, Sophia chose her mother. But Isabella didn't feel the satisfaction she once would have.

The competition was set for the following weekend.

Weekends were usually free for Isabella. And when a child competed, it was a significant event for any family. Parents naturally prioritized their children.

In the past, Isabella would have done exactly that—Sophia would have been her first priority. Everything else would have waited. But now...

She wasn't blind to the hopeful look in Sophia's eyes. Yet, her response was vague. I'll see when the time comes. If nothing urgent comes up, I'll be there.

Over the past six months, Sophia had called Isabella countless times, making so many requests that she had learned to recognize the pattern.

When Isabella used phrases like when the time comes or if, it almost always meant she wouldn't show up.

Sophia's nose stung, her eyes turning red. She let go of Isabella's hand, sniffled softly, and whispered, Okay.

Isabella noticed. Of course she did. It wasn't like she felt nothing. But even so, she didn't change her mind.

She reached out, intending to ruffle Sophia's hair before leaving. But the moment her hand moved closer, Sophia turned her face away with a pout.

Isabella paused. She withdrew her hand without another word and simply walked away.

Alexander watched the entire exchange. He didn't stop Isabella. He didn't try to persuade her. Sophia kept her face stubbornly turned away, refusing to look, but she was still listening.

When the sound of Isabella's heels faded into the distance, and she realized her mother had truly left—without even attempting to comfort her—she finally broke.

She turned and buried her face against Alexander's leg, sobbing uncontrollably.

Her fencing coach was stunned.

Sophia was far more mature than most children her age. Bright, opinionated, and spirited. Over the past six months, many kids at the academy had cried countless times.

But this was the first time he had ever seen her cry.

That morning, Isabella had agreed to every one of Sophia's requests, speaking to her with such gentleness and attention.

Yet, knowing how hurt and disappointed the child was, she had walked away without a second glance.

The impression she gave was as if she no longer wanted her daughter. That kind of coldness was shocking.

Any other man would have lost his temper, confronting his ex-wife for treating their child this way.

But Alexander showed nothing—no anger, no argument. He simply watched Isabella leave in silence.

Then he bent down, picked Sophia up, and gently wiped her tears with his fingertips. That upset?

Sophia clung to his neck, crying harder. I'm sad, and Mom doesn't care... She just... left...

Alexander murmured, Mm. I saw.

Sophia wailed louder. Does Mom not love me anymore?

He chuckled. Of course she does.

Sophia peered at him through her tears. R-Really?

Alexander pulled out a handkerchief and wiped her nose. I promise.

It soothed her slightly, but when she remembered Isabella hadn't even tried to comfort her, the tears started again. Then why didn't Mom try to make me feel better?

Alexander pinched her soft cheek, smiling without answering.

Sophia pointed at him indignantly. I—I'm this upset, and you're still laughing!

Alexander took the backpack her coach handed him.

He carried her out, holding her bag. How about I take you out for something nice to make up for it?

I don't want that. I just want Mom.

That's out of my control. You saw it yourself—when it comes to your mother, I have no say.

Sophia had no reply.