Chapter 234
Victoria seethed with a cold, calculating rage. Her outward composure was a stark contrast to the storm brewing within.
“You’re right, Mother,” she conceded, her voice a practiced mask of contrition. “I will offer Isabella a public apology. I’ll do it properly.”
Eleanor studied her daughter’s pitiful expression, a flicker of unease in her gut. The sincerity seemed rehearsed, hollow. Something fundamental had shifted in Victoria, a subtle but undeniable change Eleanor couldn't quite pinpoint. She dismissed it as a bad mood, turning to prepare a plate of sliced fruit for her.
Victoria’s gaze followed the glinting blade of the knife. Dark waves of loathing crashed behind her carefully neutral eyes. So Isabella wanted to play games? Victoria was more than ready. She would relish watching Isabella’s spectacular downfall at the Celestial Gala.
Paparazzi had swarmed the venue hours before the event was set to begin. The Celestial Gala was the modeling world’s most prestigious night. Every major supermodel would be there, including reclusive legends rarely seen in public.
The main attraction, however, was Isabella Montgomery. This was her first public appearance since the wedding scandal exploded.
Isabella, the nation's wealthiest heiress. Alexander, the charismatic and powerful CEO. Victoria, the world’s top supermodel. A scandal involving these three titans was irresistible.
Every reporter craved an exclusive, a shocking soundbite. By five in the evening, the area outside the venue was a chaotic sea of media and onlookers.
Isabella, finally dressed in her gown, slid into the waiting car.
Evelyn was behind the wheel. Nathaniel and Oliver sat flanking Isabella. The little boy clutched her hand, his expression wistful. “Mommy,” Oliver murmured, his voice small. “When can I go with you? I want everyone to know I’m your Momo. I want to be right beside you.”
A pang shot through Isabella’s heart. That could never happen, could it?
She forced a gentle tone. “When my career is more settled, sweetheart. I’ll take you everywhere. But first, my brave Momo needs to get stronger. You need a healthy, powerful heart for all those exciting events.”
“I will! I’ll be so strong!” Oliver promised, his face brightening.
His innocent determination twisted a knot of anxiety in her chest. Could she really leave in two months? Would he be fully recovered by then?
Her thoughts were interrupted as the car jerked to a halt about a kilometer from the venue. “There’s some kind of incident ahead,” Evelyn announced, peering through the windshield. “The road’s completely blocked. We’ll have to cut through the side alley.”
“Understood,” Isabella replied, her eyes scanning the congested street ahead.
The Gala attracted the city’s elite and their entourages. Clashes were not uncommon. Avoiding the commotion was the wiser choice. A narrow alleyway opened up just ahead, too tight for the car.
“We’ll have to walk from here,” Evelyn stated, shifting the car into park.
Nathaniel, who had been reviewing documents, finally looked up. He neatly filed the papers away and exited the vehicle, moving to open Isabella’s door. His voice was a low, husky murmur. “I’ll escort you through.”
“No, it’s fine,” Isabella said quickly, stepping out. She glanced toward the alley’s entrance. “Others might use this route too. If we’re seen together… it wouldn’t be good.” Her tone was laced with a reluctant worry.
Nathaniel’s brow furrowed. A shadow of disappointment crossed his features. “Am I an embarrassment to you now?” The question was sharp, edged with clear displeasure.
Isabella was taken aback. Of course he wasn’t, but…