Chapter 551

Victoria studied Nathaniel with a questioning gaze. "Nathaniel, why are you standing here by yourself? Where's Isabella?"

She was inquiring about Isabella's whereabouts.

At that precise moment, Isabella came skipping toward them, her face radiant. "Mrs. Victoria! Hello! I'm right here!"

Having anticipated Victoria's arrival in Willowbrook today, Isabella had made sure to arrive well in advance.

Isabella was breathtakingly beautiful, like a crimson rose in full bloom. Standing beside Nathaniel, they appeared to be the perfect aristocratic couple.

Victoria's eyes softened as she regarded Isabella. "You must be Isabella, Henry's daughter? Just as exquisite as everyone described."

Blushing, Isabella took Victoria's hand. "Mrs. Victoria, you flatter me too much."

Victoria gave Isabella's hand an affectionate pat. "Our families are united by betrothal. Tell me truthfully - do you love Nathaniel?"

Isabella immediately turned her gaze toward Nathaniel. Taking in his aristocratic features and commanding presence, her heart fluttered wildly. Biting her lower lip, she confessed, "Of course I love Nathaniel, Mrs. Victoria."

"Excellent," Victoria smiled approvingly. "Once we return to Metropolia, our families will expedite the wedding arrangements so you two can marry without delay."

Isabella nodded eagerly. "I would be honored."

However, Nathaniel's expression remained impassive as he stated coldly, "Mother, I won't be marrying Isabella."

Isabella froze in shock.

"This betrothal isn't some trivial matter. No one but Isabella can become your wife. She's the daughter-in-law I've chosen," Victoria declared firmly.

Turning back to Isabella, she added reassuringly, "Don't worry, my dear. You have my full support. If Nathaniel gives you any trouble, you come straight to me."

Isabella's spirits soared. Just when she thought all hope with Nathaniel was lost, Victoria had become her staunchest ally. Nathaniel was known to be a dutiful son, and with Victoria's backing, Isabella was confident she would soon become Mrs. Hawk.

Harrison would remain exactly where she belonged - in the dust.

"I will, Mrs. Victoria," Isabella agreed sweetly.

At that moment, Henry approached them. "Victoria."

Victoria turned to him. "Congratulations on finding your daughter - who also happens to be my future daughter-in-law."

Henry smiled graciously. "I've reserved a private dining room at The Grand Celeste. We should all have dinner together."

Victoria nodded. "That sounds perfect."

The two families proceeded to the lavish private dining room of the six-star hotel. Victoria and Henry walked together while Nathaniel and Isabella were seated side by side.

Victoria inquired of Henry, "When do you plan to return to Metropolia?"

"In the next few days," Henry replied.

Turning to Nathaniel, Victoria said, "Nathaniel, Henry and Isabella will be returning to Metropolia soon. You should accompany me back as well."

Nathaniel's lips pressed into a thin line. "I can't leave just yet."

Victoria insisted, "You can delegate matters here to your subordinates. Your presence is required in Metropolia-"

Nathaniel abruptly stood. "There's urgent business at Falcon Enterprises that requires my attention. I'll go to the office now."

Without another word, Nathaniel strode out. As he departed, Victoria's expression darkened. Isabella looked crestfallen. "Mrs. Victoria... it seems Nathaniel doesn't care for me at all..."

"Nonsense," Victoria reassured her.

"You may not know this," Isabella said hesitantly, "but Nathaniel has become infatuated with a woman named Harrison. She's involved with another man and is even carrying his child, yet Nathaniel remains obsessed with her."

"What?!"

Victoria paled dramatically, nearly rising from her seat. She'd heard whispers about a woman named Harrison, but had no idea the woman was pregnant with another man's child.

"That woman leads such a scandalous life! How could Nathaniel possibly be interested in someone like her?"