Chapter 96

Isabella finished packing her suitcase after breakfast, carefully selecting outfits and essentials for the hot springs getaway. She only packed for herself—not for Alexander.

Their marriage was nothing more than a facade now. Alexander wasn’t truly her husband anymore. He belonged to Victoria Kensington, and she doubted he’d appreciate her touching his things.

Not that Isabella wanted to, either.

Meanwhile, Margaret helped Sophia with her packing. In the past, Isabella would’ve double-checked everything, worried Sophia might forget something important. But now? She didn’t spare it a second thought.

Once her own suitcase was zipped shut, Isabella carried it downstairs without hesitation.

Alexander and Sophia joined her shortly after.

When they arrived at the retreat, Alexander disappeared to make a phone call. Eleanor found Isabella unpacking in her room and handed her a small box.

"I got this for you," Eleanor said with a knowing smile. "Wear it in the springs."

Isabella hesitated, recognizing the glint in Eleanor’s eyes. "I brought my own swimwear—"

"It’s nothing scandalous," Eleanor assured her. "Open it."

Inside was a bikini—similar to what Isabella usually wore, but when she unfolded the bottoms, her cheeks warmed. The fabric was soft, the cut just a little more daring than she was used to. And the color—deep crimson—made her fair skin glow.

Eleanor chuckled. "You’ll thank me later."

Isabella sighed. "Fine."

Just then, Alexander walked in. His gaze flickered to the box before she snapped it shut. He pretended not to notice, turning away casually.

"What brings you here, Grandmother?" he asked.

"To make sure you two actually enjoy the springs!" Eleanor nudged him toward the bathroom. "Go change."

Alexander didn’t argue. Moments later, he emerged in a robe, his expression unreadable.

Isabella slipped into the bathroom next. When she came out, Alexander was already gone.

She was about to head to the springs alone when Eleanor appeared. "Alexander’s in the private one to the left," she said, grinning. "Hurry up."

The private spring was small—intimate. Barely enough space for two people without their limbs brushing.

Eleanor’s plan was obvious.

Isabella hesitated but finally stepped inside.

Alexander was already in the water, his robe discarded. His eyes locked onto her as she approached.

The bikini Eleanor had chosen was more revealing than Isabella had realized. The red fabric clung to her curves, the soft material leaving little to the imagination.

She swallowed hard, suddenly hyperaware of his gaze.