Chapter 473

Kieran’s sudden appearance didn’t seem confrontational.

He wasn’t there to interfere or stir up trouble intentionally.

His gaze settled on Isabella, his tone casual and familiar.

“Having dinner with Mr. Montgomery?”

Isabella responded with a simple, “Yes.”

“You’ll be returning to the office later, I assume?”

“I have matters to attend to,” she confirmed.

Kieran gave a slight nod.

“Alright.”

“I’ll find you at the office then.”

Without another word, he turned and walked away.

Julian understood the subtle provocation in Kieran’s demeanor.

It was a clear message: Julian had to work hard for Isabella’s attention, while Kieran moved freely in her world.

Kieran didn’t need tricks to be near her.

He was already part of her daily life.

Yet, Julian felt no anger or anxiety.

He remained calm and observant.

At this point, Isabella showed no romantic interest in either of them.

They were essentially in the same position—neither ahead of the other.

If anything, Julian wished she would show some emotion.

Any hint of feeling, whether for him or Kieran, would be better than this neutrality.

At least it would mean she cared.

He had already informed Isabella that Lily was now under her grandmother’s care.

It had been some time since they last heard about her.

Once they were seated in the restaurant’s private room, Isabella finally asked, “How is Lily doing?”

Julian’s heart warmed at her concern.

“She’s doing well,” he replied gently.

“She called a few days ago and said she misses you.”

“She wants to come back and visit.”

Isabella smiled softly.

“I’d like that.”

After a brief pause, Julian added, “I also heard Sophia’s training has been going exceptionally well.”

“She’s likely to achieve something significant in the upcoming competition.”

At the mention of Sophia, Isabella’s expression shifted slightly.

She lowered her gaze, offering a quiet hum in response.

Before she could say more, the door to the private room swung open abruptly.

“Julian!”

The voice was unmistakable.

Julian’s expression darkened instantly.

Isabella, however, remained perfectly composed.

Genevieve stood frozen at the doorway, her eyes widening in shock when she noticed Isabella.

“What are you doing here?” she blurted out.

Isabella ignored her, maintaining her calm demeanor.

Julian’s voice was cold and sharp.

“What are you doing here, Genevieve?”

Though he had always been distant, this level of iciness was new.

Genevieve was taken aback, rendered speechless by his tone.

“I—I just…” she stammered, her confidence crumbling.

“Genevieve, mind your manners,” interjected Diana and Beatrice as they approached.

They, too, were surprised to see Isabella, but they knew NovaTech and Julian maintained a strong professional relationship.

A business dinner wasn’t entirely unexpected.

Diana offered a polite smile.

“Our apologies, Julian.”

“Genevieve shouldn’t have interrupted your meal.”

As elders, Julian afforded them basic respect.

“It’s alright,” he said curtly.

But toward Genevieve, he showed no leniency.

“Ms. Kensington,” he stated firmly, “we are not acquainted well enough for such interruptions.”

“I expect this won’t happen again.”

“Is that clear?”

His words were a direct and public rejection.

Genevieve had genuine feelings for Julian.

Hearing his firm dismissal, especially in front of Isabella, brought tears to her eyes.

“I—I didn’t mean to…” she choked out, her voice trembling.

But Julian’s resolve didn’t waver.

He decided to make himself perfectly clear.

“If I’m not mistaken, Ms. Kensington, you seem to have certain… expectations regarding me.”

“Let me be unequivocal: there is no possibility of a relationship between us.”

“I expect you to respect that boundary moving forward.”