Chapter 392

Alexander remained oblivious to the tension between Isabella and Victoria. He picked up where Walter had left off. "We were just discussing some industry breakthroughs."

"Ms. Kensington's insights would be valuable here," Walter added. "More perspectives could spark new ideas."

Victoria's response was measured. "I see."

Her gaze flickered toward Cole.

Isabella had intended to leave after the business discussions. But Walter and Theodore's enthusiasm had kept her engaged longer than planned.

Victoria's arrival provided the perfect exit opportunity.

Isabella rose gracefully. "It's getting late. Mr. Whitmore, Professor Pembroke, Professor Sinclair - we'll continue this another time."

Beyond Isabella's recent publication, several AI firms had made significant advancements. During their conversation, she'd quickly grasped each innovation's core.

The exchange had been intellectually stimulating. Both Theodore and Walter clearly wanted to prolong the discussion.

Theodore protested, "Must you leave? I wanted your thoughts on engine integration."

Though collaborating with Whitmore Group, such in-depth technical exchanges were rare. Walter added, "Yes, stay a while longer."

Isabella smiled politely. "Another time. I have prior commitments."

Seeing her resolve, they reluctantly acquiesced.

After bidding them farewell, Isabella turned to Alexander. Their handshake was professional. "Until next time, Mr. Whitmore."

Not just Theodore and Walter had enjoyed the conversation. Even Daniel and Benjamin noticed Alexander's rare engagement during the discussion.

They expected him to ask Isabella to stay.

Instead, Alexander simply returned the handshake. "Next time." He instructed Benjamin, "Please escort Ms. Sinclair out."

Benjamin suddenly understood Alexander's restraint. Without Victoria present, Alexander might have extended the conversation given his professional admiration for Isabella.

But with Victoria here, her feelings took precedence.

Any effort to keep Isabella would undoubtedly make Victoria overthink their history.

"Ms. Sinclair," Benjamin said courteously, "this way."

Isabella nodded. Without acknowledging Alexander or Victoria further, she departed with Benjamin and Victoria Chambers.

Victoria watched Isabella's retreating figure.

Recalling Theodore and Walter's eagerness, she asked lightly, "What were you discussing?"

Walter spoke first, admiration evident. "Ms. Sinclair possesses remarkable breadth in AI innovation. A rare polymath - truly impressive."

"Her insights expanded my thinking considerably," Theodore added. "That's why we wanted to continue. A real missed opportunity."

Victoria hadn't anticipated this.

Her smile faltered slightly before she regained composure. "I see."

Theodore chuckled. "Isabella's an AI prodigy. Brilliant mind, striking beauty. Nathaniel's a fortunate man."

An AI genius? Isabella?

And Nathaniel was lucky?

Theodore's praise elevated Isabella to near sainthood.

Though Victoria didn't know how Isabella had so thoroughly impressed them, their admiration reminded her of Walter Ashford and Arthur Langford.

They too had been captivated.

A single paper had won such favor from industry titans.

Victoria couldn't deny Isabella's skill.

But without genuine substance, the truth would eventually surface.

No matter Isabella's current acclaim, it was merely illusion - nothing substantive.

At this thought, Victoria lowered her head with a faint, knowing smile.

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