Chapter 162

“Victoria stayed with you for five entire years. She gave you her most precious youth. Just because she made one terrible mistake, you want to come back to me? How do you think that makes her feel?” Isabella spoke with convincing emotion, every word dripping with feigned sincerity.

‘Hypocrisy is a language Victoria understands well. Now that her reputation is in ruins, it’s time to strip her of everything she has left,’ Isabella thought coldly.

As anticipated, the expressions of William, Frederick, and Eleanor shifted instantly. They had always viewed Isabella as ruthless and unfeeling. They never imagined she possessed such empathy.

Alexander grew visibly irritated. How could she twist his intentions like this? He couldn’t tolerate her narrative.

“I already discussed this with Victoria. She said herself she wants us to be happy. We had a history long before her, so she understands. I know you kept our engagement ring. You never returned it, even after you came back. You must still cherish what we had, don’t you?”

“The ring? I’d forgotten all about it until you mentioned it. I tossed it into a garbage bin somewhere in Africa. If you need it for another proposal, I can send people to look for it,” Isabella replied dismissively. “I’ll ensure you and Victoria can be together properly.”

Her tone then sharpened into a warning. “Even if Victoria tells you she understands, it doesn’t mean she isn’t hurting inside. She’s always been kind and self-sacrificing, bearing her pain alone. Her willingness to let you go only confirms my decision. I will never be with you again.”

Alexander was rendered speechless. How did she always manage to turn the situation around so effortlessly?

Eleanor felt a pang of sympathy. She never thought Isabella could be so considerate. Even Frederick sided with Isabella for once. He turned to Alexander. “Victoria hasn’t been herself lately. How would she feel about you abandoning her for Isabella?”

“Alexander, you’ve been with Victoria for five years. Since Isabella clearly has no feelings for you, you should make your choice clear and treat Victoria better. If you hurt her, I will not forgive you.”

With the momentum against him, Alexander had no choice. “Of course,” he conceded.

He still had time to execute his plan.

After lunch, Isabella had other matters to attend to. She bid the family farewell and left the manor.

Alexander quickly followed her. He caught up and grabbed her arm. “Isabella, we’re alone now. You can drop the act. Have you considered what I said? Do you truly believe Nathaniel is in love with you?”

“Huh? Is there a dog barking? I hear incessant yapping. It’s so annoying!” Isabella sneered, pulling her arm from his grasp. She walked away without looking back.

Alexander’s face darkened. He glared at her retreating figure, his fists clenched tightly.

‘Isabella, you leave me no choice...!’ he seethed silently.

Isabella walked out through the main gates toward the road. She was about to call for a taxi when she noticed a sleek black car parked nearby. Wasn't that Nathaniel’s car? Why was he still here? Frowning, she began walking toward it.