Chapter 133

The engagement party was attended by only the elite of Harborview City.

The Blackwood family, Ethan's paternal relatives, Isabella's parents, and even Ethan's father and aunt hadn't returned from abroad. The Thornton and Whitmore families were also present.

These were all established dynasties, invited only because William Blackwood insisted. Otherwise, Ethan wouldn't have bothered.

If it were up to him, there would be no engagement banquet at all.

To him, marrying Isabella was merely a transaction—she had saved him and carried his child.

Love? Nonexistent.

Just looking at her irritated him.

But for Isabella, this was everything.

Harborview's high society finally recognized her as Ethan Blackwood's fiancée.

Even Charlotte Kensington, who usually wouldn't spare her a glance, now trembled at the sight of Isabella on Ethan's arm.

The same Charlotte who once sneered at her now wore a sycophantic smile.

"Mrs. Blackwood, we should have lunch together soon," Charlotte simpered.

Isabella lifted her chin. "Perhaps."

Charlotte's smile stiffened, jealousy burning in her chest. She had always believed she was the perfect match for Ethan.

Now, that dream was dust.

Her gaze shifted to Liam Sterling.

"Mr. Sterling," she purred, sidling up to him with her wineglass.

Liam smirked. "Miss Kensington, since when do you grace me with your attention?"

"My grandfather keeps me on a tight leash. But tonight, we celebrate!" She giggled, batting her lashes.

"Or is it because my cousin is taken, so you're settling for me?" Liam teased.

Charlotte feigned outrage. "You're impossible!"

"Care for a drink?"

"Try me."

They retreated to a corner, downing their glasses.

Then Liam pulled out his phone.

"Who are you calling?" Charlotte pouted, already possessive.

Liam traced her cheek. "Your competition."

Charlotte froze.

——

Sophia Montgomery had skipped lunch, her stomach in knots. When her phone rang, she snatched it up.

"Meet me at your office entrance," Liam commanded.

"Where are we going?" Her voice was soft, obedient.

He considered. "Just wait there."

The line went dead.

Back at the party, Liam exchanged a look with Charlotte.

"You're choosing me, then?" she asked coyly.

Liam chuckled. "You're marriage material. Our families would approve. Unlike my cousin, I'm still available."

Charlotte nodded. "True."

"But that doesn't mean I can't have fun," he added, his grin turning wolfish.

Before she could ask, he staggered toward the main table where Ethan sat, icy as ever.

"Cousin!" Liam slurred.

Ethan's gaze could freeze hell. "What?"

"Did you finalize the divorce with Sophia?"

Ethan's jaw tightened.

Between his mother's sudden death, the funeral, and the engagement rush, he hadn't had time.

This banquet was only happening because Isabella kept fainting and his grandmother insisted.

The divorce would happen Monday.

But Liam's question felt like a challenge.

"No conflict," Ethan said coldly. "That marriage was temporary. We'll divorce Monday. Why?"

Liam smirked. "Just confirming you're done with her."

Ethan's eyes darkened.

As Liam sauntered off with Charlotte, unease coiled in Ethan's gut.

This wasn't idle curiosity.

Liam had plans.

And Sophia—caught between Vincent Holloway and Liam—was playing a dangerous game.

The engagement party ended abruptly. Ethan sent Isabella home with Nathan, then left alone.

Isabella should've been upset, but she wasn't.

For the first time, Ethan had let her into his world.

That was victory enough.