Chapter 232

The portrait was unmistakably her.

Isabella started to speak. “Christopher, what if we don’t—”

Before she could finish, Oliver chirped, “I’ll handle it right now, Mommy! See you soon!” He dashed off on his little legs.

Isabella sighed. That boy…

It didn’t matter. No one had visited her at the estate since she moved in. Oliver mentioned his grandparents didn’t like him. They probably wouldn’t come.

She refocused. Preparations for the Celestial Gala tonight demanded attention. Though it was ten hours away, her gown required a perfect hairstyle. Matching accessories and shoes were essential. She wanted to honor Mr. Ashford’s effort.

After breakfast, Evelyn approached her with a box. “Ms. Montgomery, Mr. Blackwood assigned me to style you today.”

Isabella had avoided Nathaniel since the morning incident. His thoughtfulness surprised her.

Evelyn was Nathaniel’s top assistant. She specialized in serving elite clients, including styling. Her work was impeccable.

Isabella sat before the mirror. “Thank you.”

Evelyn began styling her hair.

Soon, Isabella’s phone lit up on the desk. The caller ID showed ‘Mom.’

It was Eleanor. She was calling.

Though Eleanor never acted like a mother, and Isabella didn’t see her as one, she kept the contact name to maintain her cover.

Isabella answered flatly. “Yes?”

“Isabella, where are you staying? I went to Rosewood Manor and you weren’t there.” Eleanor’s tone was unusually gentle.

After talking with her husband Richard, Eleanor had searched for Isabella. She couldn’t find her.

Isabella’s eyes flickered. She gave a vague excuse. “Another property. Contact me if you need me.”

“Nothing urgent. I wanted to ask if you’d like to live with us? You’re a Montgomery. Living alone isn’t proper,” Eleanor said.

Isabella didn’t expect an invitation. She remembered how Eleanor and Richard had bodyguards escort her away on her first day back. Contempt flashed in her eyes. “I apologize, but I don’t plan to return. As my mother, you know how everyone despises an adopted daughter. To avoid conflict, I prefer living alone.”

Eleanor sighed. Even if she and Richard accepted Isabella, others might not. After a pause, she continued. “Isabella, can I ask a favor? The Montgomerys have connections with the Celestial Gala organizers. You’ll win awards tonight. Could you say something kind about your sister during interviews? Please don’t criticize her further…”

Isabella’s eyes dulled. So this was the real reason for the call. Victoria committed terrible acts, yet Eleanor still defended her?

Connections? Isabella could win awards without Montgomery connections.

Sensing her displeasure, Eleanor sighed. “I know Victoria made bad choices. She’s unforgivable. As punishment, I transferred her five-percent shares to your father. She’s also badly injured and still in a coma. She’s suffered enough… I hope you can forgive her a little.”

Isabella frowned. They actually took five percent of her shares? Victoria would be furious! With only five percent left, she had little influence in the family. What could she do now?

Isabella’s lips curved slightly. “I’ll say a few words to the media. Under one condition.”

“What condition?” Eleanor asked immediately.