Chapter 195

Christopher jolted back in surprise, his small frame tensing as he saw Isabella standing there. He hastily shoved the report into the desk drawer, his voice trembling slightly. "Mommy, you... did you see that?"

Isabella made a noncommittal sound, choosing not to press him further. She settled beside him, her tone gentle but firm. "Oliver, I know you've seen the things online about me and that man. You mustn't believe any of it. It's all part of a strategy."

His eyes widened, hope flickering within them. "Really? So you'll stay with Daddy forever? You'll never leave us?"

The word 'forever' sent a subtle tremor through Isabella. Forever? Such a concept felt foreign, unrealistic. Her plan was strictly three months. Yet...

She forced a nod, keeping her doubts locked away. "Of course. Don't worry about these things. Focus on your studies and being happy. You need to grow up strong and healthy, understand?"

"Yes! Oliver will always listen to Mommy!" He nodded vigorously, relief washing over his small features. He studied her expression carefully before venturing, "Mommy, why didn't you ask about the report? It wasn't Daddy's. Grandfather Montgomery sent it. He said... at his sixtieth birthday party next month... he's announcing Daddy's engagement to Vivienne..."

He spoke honestly, fearing her anger.

But Isabella had anticipated this. It didn't affect her. "It's fine. I'm not upset."

Since her departure was inevitable, Anthony's engagements were irrelevant. They held no weight for her.

Oliver burrowed into her arms, his voice laced with worry. "But I only want you, Mommy. I don't like anyone else. I don't want another mommy. I want to be with you forever!" He nuzzled deeper into her embrace, whining softly.

Her heart softened. A sigh escaped her. She only planned for three months, yet he dreamed of a lifetime. Children were so pure, so trusting. A pang of concern hit her. What would happen when those three months ended?

Meanwhile, Victoria had departed Montgomery Manor, arriving in a remote, sleepy town far from the city's bustle.

She surveyed the unappealing cottage with open disgust. But she steeled herself. This was necessary for her plan. She had to endure it.

"Clean this hovel!" she snapped at Penelope. "I want it spotless before dark!"

"Yes, Miss Kensington..." Penelope bowed her head, immediately beginning to tidy with efficient movements.

Victoria found a relatively clean spot and pulled out her phone to kill time. She intended to browse the news, but her feed was flooded with updates about Alexander and Isabella.

Alexander's post was shockingly heartfelt. He seemed genuinely serious! She had just been exiled to this backwater, and he was already publicly pursuing Isabella?

What if he actually fell for her during this process? No, impossible! Alexander was far too arrogant. Why would he ever want a woman with a tainted past? Besides, Isabella was just Nathaniel's mistress!

She tried to soothe her rising insecurities. Her plan needed to accelerate. Immediately.

That evening, she created a new Instagram account. She posted carefully curated videos of the rustic scenery—rolling hills, a babbling brook, farmland, and simple villagers. She narrated in her soft, cultured voice, "Finding peace within while rediscovering myself. This is a journey of self-reflection and a new beginning."

A meticulously calculated move to rehabilitate her image.