Chapter 425

No.1

All because she wasn't born a Montgomery? Because she'd fabricated her identity?

No. Absolutely not.

Her fingers tightened around the recording device in her bag—disguised as a lipstick, utterly ordinary yet technologically advanced.

She had captured their entire conversation. 'You'll regret this, Alexander. You'll regret everything!'

At Rosewood Manor

Isabella spent the summer with Oliver, studying checker manuals and architectural blueprints. She remained vigilant against Vivienne and Alexander's schemes, yet no trouble came.

Time flew, and the day of Reginald Blackwood's birthday celebration arrived.

Isabella woke to an empty bedroom that morning. Frowning, she headed downstairs.

In the living room, she spotted Nathaniel and Christopher by the door speaking with Dominic. Dominic departed with a violet box in hand.

She frowned. "What's going on?"

No.2

"Nothing, nothing!" Oliver shook his head vigorously.

To appear less suspicious, Oliver dashed to Isabella and tugged her hand to distract her. "Mommy, I'm going to Grandpa's party with Daddy today! You have to be good, okay?"

Nathaniel approached. "Breakfast is in the microwave. Don't forget to eat."

"You're taking Christopher?" Isabella blurted.

Nathaniel nodded.

Oliver was part of the Blackwood family, and Nathaniel never shied from rumors. He would stand by Oliver anywhere.

Isabella pressed, "But your parents dislike Christopher. The rest of the family does too. If he goes with you, they'll mock him."

Nathaniel looked at Oliver. "He's a man."

Three words, clear and firm. As his son, Oliver needed to face such challenges young.

Oliver reassured Isabella, "Don't worry about me, Mommy. I'll be fine. I'll grow strong and protect you with Daddy!"

No.3

His small voice held determination, tugging at Isabella's heartstrings. Why should an innocent child like Oliver face the Blackwoods' judgment?

She scooped Oliver into her arms, speaking with maturity. "Christopher is only five. Still a little boy. He shouldn't endure that. I'm here now, and you're here. He never has to grow up!"

Nathaniel frowned. Isabella would be here? Oliver never had to grow up?

That meant...

Nathaniel's eyes narrowed, a soft gleam of affection sparkling within. His gaze softened as he looked at Isabella. "Oh, Isabella, look at you. Being an overprotective parent."

He intentionally emphasized the last two words.

Isabella jolted at his suggestive tone. Right! Since when had she started caring so much about Oliver?

She was always logical and principled, scolding spoiled children. But with Oliver in her arms, she only thought: Even if he destroyed the world, she would protect and help him!

She tightened her hold on Oliver. "I don't mind. I love spoiling him! He's only five. A child shouldn't bear an adult's burdens! You go alone. I'll take care of him today."

Isabella left no room for argument, carrying Oliver toward the kitchen.

No.4

In her arms, Oliver made a face at Nathaniel—his chubby arms hooked around her neck—and chirped, "Yay! Mommy loves me! Christopher loves Mommy!"

Nathaniel realized when Oliver said that word—love.

That mischievous boy was getting in the way!

Meanwhile, at Bayview Apartment...

Alexander stood before a full-length mirror, elegantly fastening his collar button. Harrison entered to report. "Mr. Whitmore, Nathaniel has left the Blackwood Estate. Ms. Vivienne reminds you to seize this opportunity."

"Alright." Alexander picked up his suit jacket, draping it over his arm.

He checked his reflection, adjusting his tie with a sophisticated air. Satisfied, he headed out. Suddenly, Victoria rushed in anxiously.

“Alexander, I need to speak with you!”

“Not now, I’m occupied.” Alexander continued walking without pause, unwilling to waste this perfect chance.

Victoria clutched his arm desperately. “Alexander, I’m pregnant.”

No.5

Pregnant.

He froze instantly, body tensing at her words. He always used protection—except once, about a month ago…

Harrison’s expression darkened.

Victoria met his gaze pleadingly. “Alexander, the baby is thirty-five days old. Let’s get married, please? I’ll raise our child, and we can build a happy life together. I’ll support you with the family, and together we’ll expand the Whitmore empire beyond imagination!”

Alexander studied her. Marriage? A child?

For a moment, his heart softened… until Isabella’s face flashed in his mind.

Today was his only shot!

There was only one pill like this in existence!

He had to sleep with Isabella to make Nathaniel despise her. Only then would she return to him!

Winning Isabella back would solve all of Whitmore Enterprises’ problems and bring unlimited resources.

No.6

Alexander was certain Nathaniel would never want a woman who had been with another man twice. Plus, as McKenzie had promised, the pill would induce hallucinations and make Isabella initiate everything.

Even if she tried to press charges, there would be no evidence. The pill was undetectable!

After a brief pause, Alexander patted Victoria’s shoulder. “Victoria, I’d love to have a child with you, but the timing isn’t right.”

Not the right timing…

“W-What did you say?” Victoria’s voice trembled.

“Terminate it,” Alexander stated coldly. “Focus on your health. We can try again later.” He turned to Harrison. “Take her to the hospital. Ensure she’s well cared for.”

“Yes, sir,” Harrison replied, masking the pain in his voice.

Abortion? Mr. Whitmore was utterly heartless…

Tears streamed down Victoria’s cheeks as she watched him leave. “Alexander, please reconsider… Doesn’t our baby deserve a chance?”

Her cries were filled with agony and despair.

No.7

Alexander halted briefly. “I’ll compensate you once everything is settled, Victoria.”

With that, he walked away, colder than ever.

Victoria stumbled backward and collapsed to the floor. She had lost. Completely.

She thought the baby would win him back, but he chose to pursue Isabella instead.