Chapter 430

Julian rushed after Isabella, but he was too late. When he arrived at the elevator bank, the doors had already closed behind her.

Across town, Alexander was engaged in conversation when his phone buzzed.

He glanced at the screen and answered.

After a brief exchange, he ended the call just as Victoria approached. "Who was that? You sounded pleased," she observed.

"An old university friend. Benjamin Hayes. He's visiting Fairview on business and wanted to catch up over dinner. My schedule happened to be clear."

Alexander turned to her. "Care to join us?"

When they'd met, Alexander had already graduated. She'd encountered a few of his college acquaintances at social functions, but they'd all seemed like casual connections.

This one appeared different - closer somehow.

She nodded. "I'd love to."

Alexander exchanged a few more pleasantries with their hosts before escorting Victoria to the upscale restaurant where they were meeting.

Benjamin, an expat with striking features, had already secured a table. He rose as they approached. "Alexander! It's been too long." His gaze shifted to Victoria. "And this must be your girlfriend? She's stunning. You make a perfect pair."

Alexander made the introductions.

Benjamin leaned forward, intrigued. "So how did you two meet?"

Victoria smiled. "In Salzburg. I'd just finished my studies at the time..."

When she finished her story, Benjamin let out an impressed whistle. "Brilliant woman! Alex, your taste remains impeccable." He chuckled. "I remember that girl you were crazy about in college - the one who skipped grades to graduate early. Rumor had it you two even married before she finished her degree..."

Victoria's smile faltered slightly.

Alexander's expression darkened. "You're mistaken, Ben. That wasn't my girlfriend."

"Really?" Benjamin looked genuinely surprised. "I only met her that one time when I was back in the country. Must have gotten the wrong impression." He quickly changed the subject. "So, what's good here? You're the local - I'll trust your judgment."

Alexander didn't press the matter further.

The conversation flowed easily as Benjamin proved an engaging dinner companion. He turned to Victoria with interest. "And what do you do?"

"I'm currently working in autonomous vehicle development."

"An engineer? Impressive."

Victoria smiled modestly. "Not as impressive as it sounds. Actually, Alexander founded the company. Later on..." She explained how she became involved.

Typically, this revelation elicited responses like "He must really believe in you." But Benjamin's reaction was different.

His expression shifted almost imperceptibly. Though he said nothing, his demeanor subtly changed - as if reassessing her worth. A flicker of disappointment crossed his features when he glanced at Alexander, as though questioning his friend's judgment.

Victoria's smile tightened.

Catching himself, Benjamin cleared his throat. "How's the company performing?"

Alexander answered smoothly. "We recently achieved a technological breakthrough that significantly increased our valuation."

"Of course," Benjamin nodded, smiling. "With you at the helm, that's no surprise. Growing a tech company's value must be child's play for someone of your caliber."