Chapter 199
Upon arriving back at the Kingsley estate, they immediately tended to Amelia.
Julian oversaw the procedure, emerging from the room after completing the initial treatment. With a satisfied nod and a playful wink directed at James, he announced, “First round’s finished.”
Stretching his arms as if shedding the weight of responsibility, Julian turned his attention to Isabella. “Ontdale is far more vibrant than I expected,” he mused. “Though, I don’t know a soul here and have no idea where to stay.” He flashed her a charming grin. “Isabella, considering our history, would you mind putting me up for a while?”
Isabella didn’t hesitate. “That doesn’t quite fit into my plans,” she said smoothly. “But I can help you find suitable accommodations.”
Julian feigned offense, leaning in closer, his eyes twinkling. “You’re really turning me down? After all those times you insisted we shouldn’t lose touch? Have you forgotten the days we shared that tiny apartment? Now you think you’re too good to live with me? That stings.”
“It’s not like that,” Isabella countered, trying to explain. “I just worry my erratic schedule might inconvenience—”
Alexander cut her off smoothly. “No need for any trouble.” He glanced at Julian. “You’ve come all this way to treat my niece. It would be remiss of me not to provide proper accommodations. The estate is vast—you can stay in the guesthouse near the western garden. It’s peaceful, undisturbed, and has ample space for your equipment. Plus, it’s adjacent to our private medical wing—perfect for professional discussions.”
Julian opened his mouth to protest, but Alexander continued, his tone impeccably polite. “Rest assured, our family will ensure your stay is comfortable.” His words were so carefully measured that Julian had no choice but to accept.
After a brief hesitation, Julian’s face broke into a warm smile. “Since Mr. Kingsley is being so generous, it would be rude to refuse.” Then, turning back to Isabella, his enthusiasm was infectious. “Isabella, since we haven’t seen each other in ages, how about dinner tonight? My treat.”
Before Isabella could respond, Alexander interjected smoothly. “Ms. Sinclair, I was hoping to discuss teaching you my grandmother’s perfume-blending techniques tonight. I happen to be free.” He offered Julian an apologetic glance, though his expression remained casual. “I hope you don’t mind—my schedule is rather unpredictable.”
Julian wasn’t deterred. “Funny, I’m free tonight too,” he said, shifting the focus back to Isabella.
A subtle tension settled over the room. Though Isabella often missed social cues, even she sensed the undercurrent. Initially, she wanted to decline both offers—she’d planned a quiet evening. But then she remembered Alexander’s restrained breathing earlier in the back room. This was an opportunity to test him.
She turned to Julian. “Perfume blending can wait. Let’s have dinner first—it’s been a long day, and I could use a proper meal.” Then, with deliberate emphasis, she added, “But I insist on paying. You’re the guest here.”
Her words carried weight.
“Mr. Kingsley,” she continued smoothly, “why don’t you join us?”
Alexander hesitated only a fraction of a second before replying, his smile tight. “Fine. Following the host’s customs, a small dinner takes precedence. I could use a meal myself.”
Julian was momentarily speechless, catching the edge in Alexander’s tone. But he couldn’t ignore the fact that Isabella had subtly shifted the dynamic—by choosing to dine with him, she’d made it clear whose company she preferred.
This wasn’t just dinner.
It was a statement.
