Chapter 192
“Since everyone despises me now, I need time alone for self-reflection. While I’m away, Alexander darling, you must do everything to win Isabella over.”
Victoria paused briefly, then continued in an even sweeter tone. “Even though my sister lost her purity, had a child, and recently became Nathaniel’s mistress… she’s still remarkable. If you can be with her—even if not for her fortune—it’s far better than being with someone like me.”
“What nonsense are you saying? How could I ever fall for a promiscuous, morally bankrupt woman like her?”
Alexander thought of Isabella’s actions and felt a wave of disgust. “When are you leaving? I’ll take you to the airport.”
“No need, my love. Just promise me you’ll take care of yourself. Don’t overwork. Even if you don’t like Isabella, you must pursue her. Her assets will secure your position in the Whitmore family. Call me anytime—I’ll always support you.”
Victoria hung up, her voice dripping with false sweetness. A smug, satisfied smile spread across her face.
‘No man can resist a woman who knows how to play sweet and vulnerable. Did Alexander really think he could forget me? Impossible!’
She began packing immediately. Her new plan was to retreat to the countryside temporarily. She would return in glory one month later.
Meanwhile, Alexander was troubled by Victoria’s words. Despite his coldness, she still supported him selflessly. Yes, Victoria had made mistakes, but her intentions were always to help him. Unlike Isabella…
His eyes fell on a report from Harrison: Last night, Isabella checked into The Ritz-Carlton. Nathaniel arrived just before midnight.
They spent the night together.
Disgraceful! She was still technically his fiancée, yet she spent the night with another man! What did her beauty matter? She was nothing like Victoria! Still… given his current situation, he needed Isabella’s shares and her diamond connections. She held twenty-five percent of the Montgomery Group stock.
Suppressing his revulsion, he ordered Harrison, “Prepare a gift basket. I’m going to The Ritz-Carlton.”
“Right away, sir.”
At The Ritz-Carlton.
Nathaniel had already left when Isabella returned from her morning shoot. Exhausted, she headed straight to bed. Less than an hour later, an insistent doorbell jerked her awake.
She dragged herself to the door and checked the peephole. Alexander stood outside, looking arrogantly impatient.
Him again? He actually showed up?
Isabella had no intention of opening the door. But she knew Alexander—he would keep ringing until she gave in.
She yanked the door open. “What do you want?”
Hearing her annoyed tone, Alexander felt another surge of disgust. How could she ever compare to Victoria?
He forced a pleasant expression. “I heard you’re here for a shoot. I brought lunch—your favorite.”
He tried to step inside, but Isabella blocked the doorway. “No stray animals allowed. If you’re just delivering food, you can leave now.” Her voice was ice.