Chapter 95

Isabella shared the same suspicion. She was convinced this was Alexander's way of compensating Victoria after preventing her uncle from occupying the penthouse opposite Charles.

Alexander adored Victoria. He'd never intentionally make her feel inadequate just to accommodate Isabella.

Nathaniel remarked, "If Victoria's been hiding her true potential all along, then—"

His voice trailed off. Both he and Isabella were Frederick's protégés—that much was undeniable.

Though Frederick maintained a cold demeanor toward them, their bond ran deeper than appearances suggested.

Beneath his frosty exterior, Frederick possessed a compassionate heart. His high standards didn't negate his genuine care for them.

Yet Frederick was also a man of unwavering principles. Should Victoria demonstrate exceptional talent, he wouldn't reject her as an apprentice simply because of her feud with Isabella.

This was Nathaniel's primary concern.

Isabella, however, regained her composure swiftly. "Let's focus on our immediate tasks," she suggested.

Her priority now was executing her responsibilities flawlessly.

Isabella didn't return to the Whitmore estate until late that evening. Eleanor had retired for the night, and Alexander was conspicuously absent—likely not returning at all.

Emerging from her shower, Isabella froze when she spotted Alexander in the bedroom. His unexpected appearance surprised her. She gave a brief nod in acknowledgment.

She didn't inquire about his dinner with Frederick, nor did he volunteer any explanation. After a momentary glance, he disappeared into the bathroom.

The next morning, Isabella slept in. Descending the stairs, she heard Eleanor's acerbic voice. "It was past eleven when I retired last night, Alexander, and you were still missing. I'd nearly given up hope of seeing you home again!"

Alexander sat calmly sipping tea across from Eleanor, offering no response.

She rapped the table sharply. "Have you lost your tongue?"

Setting down his cup, Alexander noticed Isabella's approach. His gaze flickered toward her briefly before returning to Eleanor. "Weren't you the one demanding my presence for your morning outing?"

"I thought you'd ignored me again!" Eleanor scoffed.

"Wouldn't dream of it," Alexander replied, though his indifferent expression suggested otherwise.

Eleanor clutched her chest dramatically before waving Isabella over. "Join us, dear."

Taking a seat, Isabella asked, "Are you two planning an excursion, Grandmother?"

"Correction—we three are going," Eleanor corrected with a chuckle. "Where would you like to visit, Isabella? Your wish is my command."

Isabella considered herself rather uncreative when it came to leisure activities. "I'm content with anything. The choice is yours, Grandmother."

Eleanor's eyes sparkled with mischief. "What about the thermal springs? Our last attempt was... interrupted." She shot Alexander a pointed look. "This time, certain individuals will make proper amends."

Alexander continued drinking his tea, utterly unfazed by the implied accusation. The previous incident might as well have never occurred for all the reaction it provoked.

Isabella averted her gaze. While she'd visited the springs before and currently felt little enthusiasm, she wouldn't deny Eleanor's request. "That sounds lovely."