Chapter 198

Sophia naturally gravitated toward her father.

Abigail observed the other parents watching their spouses participate in games with their children.

When things went well, they laughed and clapped enthusiastically. When things didn’t, they grew anxious, cheering louder.

It was obvious—these families were united.

But with Isabella, something felt off.

Even as she smiled while playing with Sophia, there was a distance between her, Alexander, and their daughter. As if she didn’t truly belong.

Then Abigail remembered the last parent-teacher meeting. Sophia had been noticeably closer to that woman.

No wonder Isabella didn’t fit in now.

What child wouldn’t pull away from a mother who had allowed their family to fracture?

Abigail’s heart ached for her, but she didn’t know how to offer comfort.

Isabella caught the sympathy in her gaze.

She knew Abigail had pieced it together. So she just smiled.

The worst was already behind her.

She was only here today because Victoria wasn’t available. That was why Alexander and Sophia had asked her to come instead.

Yes, she was the outsider.

Just then, Alexander and Sophia returned.

Sophia rushed over, eager to see the video Isabella had recorded.

Isabella sent it to both of them. "Check your tablet."

Sophia beamed. "Okay!"

After three rounds of games, the event finally ended.

Sophia had won two trophies. Clutching them, she begged Alexander to take photos.

He obliged, snapping several shots.

Then Sophia turned to Isabella. "Mom, take pictures of me and Dad!"

Isabella nodded. "Of course."

At her daughter’s request, she took a few photos of them together.

After sending them to Sophia, Alexander surprised her. "Let me take some of you two."

"Yes! Mom, come here!"

"Alright."

Alexander took her phone and captured a few shots of her and Sophia.

When he handed it back, her phone rang.

Nathaniel.

"I need to take this," she said.

Sophia chirped, "Okay, Mom!"

Alexander simply nodded.

The call lasted ten minutes—work matters.

When she turned back, she noticed Alexander and Sophia were on a video call with someone. She didn’t interrupt.

Instead, she focused on the files Nathaniel had sent.

A moment later, Sophia waved her over. "Mom! Group photo time! Then lunch!"

Isabella joined them, posing with the other families. Elizabeth, their teacher, took individual family photos too.

With that, the event officially concluded.

As Isabella prepared to leave, Alexander retrieved his coat. Then he turned to her. "Where do you want to eat?"

Before she could answer, Sophia shot her hand up. "Barbecue! The place we went to last time!"

Alexander pinched her cheek. "Too far. You have class this afternoon—we won’t make it."

Sophia pouted, then brightened. "Seafood?"

Alexander didn’t answer immediately. Instead, he looked at Isabella. "Your choice?"