Chapter 374

Isabella Montgomery reached for the ignition when she sensed movement behind her. She turned to find Benjamin Kensington seated there. Her brow furrowed instantly.

"What are you doing here?"

"The estate is unbearable today. I'm staying with you for a couple days." Benjamin stated it plainly, without pretense.

Isabella found it odd. Even if the Montgomery manor was chaotic, he had other options. Friends. Hotels. Why choose her?

Victoria must have made her move. Isabella's curiosity prickled. What was her adopted sister planning now?

She secured her helmet and handed Benjamin a spare one.

He blinked, surprised. He had expected resistance, not immediate compliance.

This was going better than anticipated. Benjamin fastened the helmet.

Isabella revved the engine. The motorcycle surged forward, accelerating at a breathtaking pace.

Benjamin grabbed the rear handle, caught off guard. His mind flashed to the old Isabella. The pretentious, clumsy girl who trailed after Alexander Whitmore. The constant embarrassment.

Now, she was this. Formidable. Impressive. He had to admit, she looked incredibly cool.

Meanwhile, at the Blackwood Estate...

A lavish celebration was in full swing. Industry elites mingled throughout the opulent halls. Their conversations were a low, refined hum.

Vivienne Delacroix stood apart even here. A crystal wine glass dangled from her fingers. She sat near an elaborate floral arrangement.

Her strapless gown was a masterpiece. The hem was a river of inlaid diamonds. They caught the light with her slightest movement, sparkling from every angle.

She was beauty. She was class. She was utterly singular.

A cluster of women orbited her. Admiring gazes from men followed her. But Vivienne's attention was fixed on one figure alone.

Nathaniel Blackwood stood by the champagne tower. His tailored suit accentuated his powerful frame. He was surrounded by businessmen, yet he held a quiet command.

He didn't need to speak. His presence alone radiated an aura of exquisite authority.

A slow smile touched Vivienne's lips. The plan was in motion. By now, Alexander should have had his way with Isabella. She could barely contain her anticipation.

She imagined Nathaniel's face when he saw the photos. The delicious shock. The betrayal.

Just then, her assistant, Cassandra Delacroix, rushed over. "Madam, an urgent matter."

Vivienne offered a brief apology to her companions. They dispersed immediately, not daring to linger.

Cassandra leaned in, her voice a hushed whisper. "Alexander's plan failed. Victoria is pregnant. They're announcing their engagement."

What? Vivienne's grip on the glass tightened. The stem threatened to snap.