Chapter317 Tumultuous Undercurrents
"Alexander, I've come to extend my birthday wishes to Victoria," Isabella announced, her gaze fixed on the pair. She was on the brink of approaching them when Sebastian interjected, stepping forward to grasp her hand. His voice was a low, serious murmur, a warning in the wind. "Remember, the reporters are watching."
Isabella's eyes flickered with understanding. "I'm aware of the reporters, but what harm is there in wishing a friend a joyous birthday in their presence?" She cast a sidelong glance at Alexander and Victoria, her words hanging in the air.
The media, ever alert, swiftly adjusted their positions, the scent of a potential love triangle wafting through the air. Isabella's sharp gaze darted to Sebastian, a silent plea for him to refrain from intervening. But Sebastian, undeterred, forcefully withdrew his hand and continued his path.
Isabella, clad in a simple black dress, her long hair neatly tucked behind her ears, radiated an effortless beauty. Victoria, despite being held in Alexander's embrace, couldn't shake off a creeping sense of unease. She couldn't help but suspect that Alexander might soon cast her aside.
With a humble smile and a feigned air of generosity, Isabella greeted Victoria. "Congratulations, Victoria."
"Thank you," Victoria replied softly.
She was not intimidated because this wouldn't be the first time Alexander had abandoned her. She bore no shame in being discarded, for the entire city was privy to the fact that Isabella was once Alexander's beloved, while his wife remained a faceless entity, a mere nobody.
"Edward, I'll need you to keep an eye on Isabella," Alexander said, his gaze shifting to their close friends. He was well aware that Sebastian was ill-equipped to handle Isabella, and thus, he sought Edward's assistance.
Edward, acknowledging Alexander's request, immediately stepped forward. Alexander, with Victoria in his arms, suggested, "Let's head inside."
"Okay," Victoria agreed obediently, her eyes never leaving his. But her heart was riddled with doubts, unsure if Alexander would remain by her side throughout the night.
"I'm not here to stir up trouble, Edward. I'm here to celebrate," Isabella protested as Edward took hold of her. Edward, however, remained silent, his grip on her wrist firm as he guided her towards familiar faces. Alexander's cold demeanor had already conveyed to their friends that Isabella held a very low position in his heart.
Isabella watched as Alexander, arm wrapped around Victoria, disappeared inside, her heart roiling with tumultuous emotions. Tonight was just the beginning. Victoria, overhearing Isabella's declaration, cast a fleeting glance in her direction.
---
Inside the hall, as they greeted familiar faces, Alexander came to a halt.
"Mr. Harrington, isn't this your secretary? But I thought this was Mrs. Harrington's birthday banquet?" The CEO's confusion was mirrored in Victoria's eyes.
"My secretary also happens to be my wife," Alexander clarified, a polite smile playing on his lips as he glanced at the woman in his arms. Victoria returned his gaze, her mind awash with uncertainty. She was still haunted by the fear that he might suddenly abandon her for Isabella, just like those nights when Isabella would call and he would rush to her side. But here he was, introducing her as Mrs. Harrington of the Harrington family.
"So she really is Mrs. Harrington. No wonder you two seem so close, almost as if you're having an affair," the CEO said.
Alexander chuckled at the comment, his gaze drifting to Victoria. Victoria, however, felt a wave of embarrassment wash over her. What did he mean by 'having an affair'?
"We'll discuss this later," Alexander said, shaking hands with the CEO before leading Victoria further into the hall. Victoria, still plagued by doubts, stole a glance at him once they were alone in the elevator. "Did you say this was Mrs. Harrington's birthday banquet earlier?"
"Isn't it?" Alexander responded, lowering his gaze to meet hers, seeking confirmation.
Victoria felt a twinge of unease. She had only heard Olivia mention that the Harrington family had sent out a hundred invitations. "Perhaps it's not appropriate for so many people to know about our relationship at this point," she suggested, her tone serious yet gentle. She hoped to caution him without inciting resentment.
Perhaps her tenure as a secretary had conditioned her to overthink everything. Alexander's grip on her waist tightened, a hint of displeasure coloring his features. Suddenly, he spun her around.
Log in with Google Account
Chapters
Favorite
Settings
