Chapter 236
The moment Alexander Kingsley stepped into the room, the air shifted. This was his first public appearance since the highly publicized kidnapping incident, yet he carried himself with an effortless confidence that defied the recent turmoil.
His tailored suit accentuated his powerful frame—broad shoulders, a tapered waist, every inch radiating authority. He moved like a man who commanded the very space around him, drawing every eye in the room like a magnet.
“Mr. Blackwood,” Alexander said smoothly, presenting an elegantly wrapped gift with a subtle gesture. “A token from the Kingsley Group. Business matters delayed me slightly.” His lips curved into a faint smile. “But it seems I’ve arrived at the perfect moment.” His gaze flicked toward Isabella Sinclair. “And I’m honored to stand here in Ms. Sinclair’s defense.”
William Blackwood inclined his head. “Mr. Kingsley, your support is appreciated.”
Internally, William noted that Alexander was not a man to be underestimated in Ontdale. Their dealings had been sparse, mostly through the older generation of the Kingsley family. But Alexander’s presence tonight wasn’t just courtesy—it was a statement. One that grew louder as he stepped closer to Isabella.
William almost pitied Ethan Blackwood for his sheer stupidity—for throwing away the kind of genuine devotion Isabella had once offered him.
Ethan, watching Alexander approach, felt irritation coil in his chest, his bitterness impossible to suppress.
“Mr. Kingsley’s words sound impressive,” Ethan sneered, “but they don’t mean much. After all, everyone knows how openly you pursued Isabella—even in front of the cameras during that kidnapping disaster.” His voice faltered as the memory resurfaced.
He remembered the moment Isabella had nearly been lost forever at Darren Whitlock’s hands. He remembered her kindness, how it had illuminated every year they’d spent together. And yet, in that critical instant, he had hesitated. His legs had refused to move.
While he stood frozen, Alexander had acted without hesitation, shielding Isabella with his own body.
A cold realization settled over Ethan—if he had just moved, if he had just stepped forward, maybe Isabella would have given him another chance.
No. He refused to regret it. He clenched his jaw, forcing the thought away.
Alexander’s expression turned icy. “Perhaps, in your world, decency doesn’t exist, Mr. Blackwood. But if you recall, I’ve told you before—Ms. Sinclair is my niece’s pottery mentor. She introduced a renowned psychiatrist to help treat her autism. So yes, I admire her. She’s exceptional.” His tone left no room for argument. “But why is it that you twist everything into something sordid? Just because your current marriage is built on lies doesn’t mean the rest of us operate the same way.”
Ethan stiffened, the insult striking deep.
Then, abruptly, he remembered—Isabella had mentioned her connection to the Kingsley family once. He had dismissed it as an excuse.
Sophia Kensington, equally stung, cut in sharply. “Mr. Kingsley, you speak well, but where’s your proof that Isabella was at your family’s estate that day?” She had never faced an opponent like Alexander, and it infuriated her to see him backing Isabella. Even if she couldn’t bring Isabella down tonight, she’d make sure Eleanor Blackwood—that meddling old woman—paid for it.
Alexander’s lips curled into a mocking smile. “Oh, Ms. Sinclair was definitely at the Kingsley estate. We have security footage to prove it.” His gaze slid coldly toward Ethan. “As for the man in that footage… well, my assistant has a talent for retrieving such things. It would be child’s play to recover that video. And if it clears Ms. Sinclair’s name? Consider it a favor.” He tilted his head slightly. “The real question is—does Mr. Blackwood have the courage to face the truth laid bare?”
