Chapter 242

Isabella Montgomery remained seated, a flawless smile gracing her lips as she faced the cameras. Her image dominated the massive screen while the host's voice echoed through the grand hall.

"Isabella Montgomery, age twenty-three, first captivated the global fashion scene at Chanel's Jewelry Exhibition. Her subsequent Guci campaign shattered sales records, surpassing last year's top model Victoria Kensington."

"Her appearance at the International Auto Show garnered tens of millions of followers! Her bridal photoshoot achieved unprecedented viral success! Isabella Montgomery is undoubtedly 2020's most celebrated supermodel! This recognition is truly deserved!"

"Let's give another round of applause for Isabella Montgomery!"

Thunderous applause erupted throughout the venue. The screen displayed a stunning array of Isabella's photographs, each showcasing her versatility and mastery of different styles. The applause intensified as fellow models acknowledged her superiority with genuine admiration. Her perfect features, diverse styling, and professional excellence placed her in a league far beyond their reach.

Beneath the admiring gazes of the audience, Isabella rose gracefully. Her long gown flowed behind her like liquid gold, catching the light with every movement. Standing at her full height, she radiated both beauty and regal confidence.

She embodied the ceremony's true royalty.

As she ascended the stage, a revered icon of the modeling industry presented her trophy. Beatrice Worthington, though in her seventies, maintained the elegance of a woman decades younger. Her presence exuded timeless grace and sophistication.

Isabella met the woman's gaze with equal poise. She accepted the trophy with a respectful bow. "Thank you," she stated with genuine appreciation.

Beatrice studied Isabella with keen admiration. "You truly are exceptional, my dear. So breathtaking it almost inspires envy! Does Ms. Montgomery have any words for everyone today?"

Isabella's fingers traced the weighty trophy before she turned toward the cameras. A confident smile touched her crimson lips. "Next year, this won't be enough."

Six words delivered with absolute conviction and power.

The venue erupted in renewed cheers and applause. Only Isabella could make such a bold declaration at this prestigious event. The Most Popular Supermodel Award carried immense honor. Was she already aiming for next year's Top Model title?

An audacious claim indeed!

In their hospital rooms, both Victoria Kensington and Seraphina Delacroix watched the ceremony with seething rage. This two-month modeling newcomer dared challenge them publicly! Worse, Isabella's radiance on stage was utterly maddening. Her flawless perfection provoked bitter jealousy.

How could such a woman be allowed to thrive? It was unacceptable!

Suddenly, all lights in the venue extinguished. Darkness enveloped the grand hall. Isabella's smile vanished as her instincts sharpened. Her eyes scanned the surroundings with heightened alertness.

A single spotlight illuminated her position. Another beam focused on the stage's rear entrance. There stood a man holding an enormous bouquet of roses, dressed in an impeccably tailored suit.

Alexander Whitmore!

Alexander here? Now?

What was happening?

Before Isabella could process the situation, Alexander advanced toward her. Each step echoed through the silent hall as spotlights tracked his movement. Under the brilliant lights, he resembled a storybook prince making a grand entrance.

The audience erupted in excited murmurs.

"Incredible!"

"Alexander Whitmore! Did he coordinate this with the organizers? A public apology to Isabella?"

"Heavens! This is so romantic!"

Throughout the murmuring crowd, women watched with dreamy admiration. While others swooned, Isabella's expression tightened. She stood perfectly still as he approached. "What are you doing here?"

Was this really about a public apology? No, something else had to be unfolding.