Chapter 129

Victoria scoffed. How utterly shameless of her!

Just the thought made her blood boil. Could there be some special connection between them? Why else would such an important figure attend her grandmother's birthday?

No, Victoria replied icily. They barely know each other.

From her perspective, Isabella only met Frederick through Nathaniel.

So Frederick's presence today was likely just a courtesy to Nathaniel.

Oh, I see, Genevieve murmured.

Julian and Oliver sat at the adjacent table directly behind Victoria.

Julian had been quietly enjoying his meal until he overheard the conversation about Frederick attending Margaret's party. He paused mid-bite. The Sinclair family's celebration?

Oliver quickly explained, Today's the birthday of Isabella's maternal grandmother. Both the Sinclair and Kensington families scheduled their events on the same day, with overlapping guest lists. Most attendees chose this one because of Alexander and Victoria.

Oliver hadn't known this earlier.

He'd only just pieced it together from the banquet hall chatter.

Understanding dawned on Julian. So the Sinclair gathering is practically empty then?

Oliver shrugged. From what I heard, three-quarters of the tables are vacant.

Then he chuckled darkly. Quite pathetic really, watching guests slip away without being able to stop them.

Amusement laced Oliver's tone.

Julian's expression shifted abruptly. He stood without warning.

Oliver blinked in surprise. What's wrong?

Need to make a call, Julian muttered.

Without waiting for a response, Julian strode out purposefully.

Victoria and Genevieve turned, watching Julian's abrupt departure.

Victoria frowned. Where's Julian rushing off to?

Said something urgent came up, Oliver supplied.

Oh.

Victoria didn't press further.

The seat beside her remained conspicuously empty.

She'd reserved it specifically for Alexander.

Beatrice checked her watch. Alexander still isn't here, Victoria. Should you call him?

Victoria had been considering the same thing.

She retrieved her phone and dialed Alexander.

The call didn't connect.

Dozens of guests had flocked to the Kensington housewarming. The family moved between tables, offering drinks and networking.

Naturally, Victoria participated.

After all, most attendees came because of her.

With Victoria present, guests showed proper deference.

As the Kensingtons approached with drinks, attendees rose politely.

After exchanging pleasantries, someone inquired, Has Mr. Whitmore arrived yet, Ms. Kensington?

He's on his way, Victoria assured them. Should be here shortly.

As she spoke, a nearby guest remarked, My friend just texted that Mr. Whitmore is at the Sinclair celebration.

Mr. Whitmore is there too? Really?

There are photos circulating. Look!

Goodness, it is him!

All eyes turned to Victoria.

Most guests barely knew the Kensingtons. They'd attended partly for Alexander, partly because the Sinclair family's declining business seemed beyond recovery.

But now, not only had Frederick appeared at Margaret's party, even Alexander was there celebrating.

Which made everyone wonder - why had they bothered coming here at all?