Chapter 376

The moment the Salzburg elite recognized Margaret Sinclair, they noticed the Kensingtons deliberately avoiding any mention of her presence.

It became painfully obvious the Kensington family wanted to bury the past between the Sinclairs and Kensingtons.

Though several guests recognized Margaret, not a single one dared approach her.

Their attention quickly shifted to Julian and Victoria Kensington instead.

One bold guest even complimented Eleanor Kensington right in front of Isabella and Margaret, "Madam Kensington, your grandchildren are exceptional - both in appearance and bearing. You're truly blessed."

Indeed, Julian and Victoria were the pride of both Eleanor and the entire Kensington clan.

Eleanor didn't spare Isabella another glance.

At the compliment, she gazed adoringly at Julian and Victoria with a pleased smile. "You flatter them."

Whatever she said next, Isabella didn't hear. She and her family had already moved through the crowd and departed.

As for Alexander, after that initial glimpse, Isabella hadn't looked his way again.

Dominic and Oliver hadn't expected to encounter Isabella here either, let alone witness the awkward moment she'd been mistaken for Victoria.

They silently watched her leave.

Just then, Julian's assistant arrived with an ornate gift box for Eleanor.

Learning Julian couldn't attend the birthday banquet personally disappointed both the Kensingtons and their relatives.

The Kensington women especially - more disappointed than the men, and visibly anxious.

After Genevieve's recent scandal, both Penelope and Diana had pinned their hopes on a marriage alliance with Julian to salvage their reputation.

But now, Julian hadn't even bothered to show up.

Oliver seemed genuinely surprised by Julian's absence. He hadn't heard of any prior engagements.

Even Victoria hadn't anticipated Julian skipping such an important event.

Her brow furrowed unconsciously.

Alexander showed no reaction whatsoever.

Meanwhile, Isabella's family reached the banquet hall. Shortly after settling in, her phone rang.

Sophia's name flashed on the screen.

Isabella hesitated to answer, but Margaret - seeing the caller ID and remembering how Alexander and Victoria had appeared without Sophia - nudged her to pick up.

Feeling sorry for the girl left behind, Margaret insisted.

Isabella had reached the same conclusion.

Not wanting to ignore Sophia's call in front of Margaret, she excused herself to a quiet corner.

Sophia sounded thrilled Isabella answered. "Mom! Sunday is Mother's Day! I got you a present! Can we meet then?"

Mother's Day. The significance wasn't lost on Isabella.

After a brief pause, she replied softly, "Alright." Then asked, "Are you home alone right now?"

Sophia answered cheerfully, "Yes! Dad isn't back yet."

Isabella remained silent.

Technically, Sophia was Beatrice Kensington's great-granddaughter.

Victoria claimed to adore Sophia, yet hadn't brought her to this family celebration.

Was this what genuine love looked like?

The truth seemed so obvious - couldn't Alexander see it?

But then, blinded by his feelings for Victoria, he'd probably believe any flimsy excuse she offered.