Chapter 105

Sebastian's presence beside her calmed Harrison's nerves slightly.

After the press conference concluded, Nathaniel retreated to his sleek Bentley. His voice was low and smooth as he addressed Dominic in the front seat. "Make sure the media team understands—no details about Isabella get leaked."

Dominic nodded. "Already handled, Mr. Falcon. Several reporters deleted all footage of Mrs. Falcon immediately. They won't be reporting on her."

A faint smirk curved Nathaniel's lips. "She knows how to work a crowd."

Dominic's tone held admiration. "Mrs. Falcon has remarkable courage."

Nathaniel's brow arched. Yes, she did.

He pulled out his phone and dialed.

"Uncle Alistair."

Nathaniel's uncle was the dean of Willowridge University, one of the nation's most prestigious institutions, and a man utterly devoted to medicine. His reputation commanded respect everywhere.

Alistair's voice crackled through the line. "Nathaniel! To what do I owe this rare call?"

"I need a favor."

"Color me intrigued. What could possibly make you reach out personally?"

"I'm sending a woman to your university."

"A woman? Who?"

"Her name is Harrison. Enroll her in the medical program."

"Harrison? Isn't that your wife?" Alistair chuckled. "Well, since you're asking personally, tell her to come to Willowridge tomorrow. I'll meet her myself and assess her."

Nathaniel ended the call. Dominic, clearly surprised, turned slightly. "Sir, you're enrolling Mrs. Falcon at Willowridge?"

Nathaniel gazed out at the passing cityscape. "Harrison has a quick mind, but she lacks refinement. She dropped out at sixteen. Now I understand why—with a foster father like Vincent Blackwood, education was hardly a priority. So I'm sending her to Willowridge. She's shown interest in medicine. This is her chance."

Dominic's eyes brightened. "Sir, you're thinking ahead."

"I don't expect her to dazzle on stage like Isabella, commanding attention. I just want her to better herself—get an education, find stability. Anything is better than..."

Better than drifting aimlessly, wasting time with worthless men.

Dominic smiled. "You're absolutely right, sir. I'm sure Mrs. Falcon will make you proud."

Nathaniel exhaled, watching the city blur past. He hoped so. He just needed her to stay out of trouble.

In an opulent private dining room at The Grand Celeste, Theodore sat with Lawrence Pembroke, Winston Chamberlain, and Edwin Zander, savoring an extravagant meal.

After the humiliation at Margaret's 80th birthday, Theodore had pulled strings to arrange this dinner with the three powerful men.

He raised his glass. "Mr. Pembroke, Mr. Chamberlain, Mr. Zander—I look forward to your guidance in business."

The men clinked glasses with him. "Mr. Whitmore, you're too modest," Lawrence said smoothly. "With your daughter involved with Mr. Falcon, you'll soon be his father-in-law." Their willingness to entertain Theodore stemmed entirely from Nathaniel. Over the years, Nathaniel had elevated the Whitmore family to undeniable success.

Theodore laughed, pleased. He knew the press conference was happening. Soon, Victoria would call, and he'd officially be Nathaniel's future father-in-law.

He grinned. "Soon enough. Drinks are on me when it's official."