Chapter 182: His First Crush Is Coming Over
Roland discreetly stepped away to text Alexander about Eleanor's arrival at the party. However, he found the couple already there and awkwardly greeted them.
"Oh, you've arrived," he said.
Alexander nodded. Isabella, however, offered a warm, smiling greeting. "Hello." She then studied Roland intently.
(Internal monologue begins, italicized and indented)
Whoa! He brought his girlfriend, who's pregnant out of wedlock! They haven't announced it yet? Well, it makes sense—an unexpected pregnancy discovered after his business trip. They'll probably announce it later and plan the wedding.
The shift in Alexander's expression was palpable. He knew Alexander had always wanted to marry his longtime girlfriend, but she'd always delayed. This was a double blessing.
Roland, unfazed, said with slight unease, "Um… Alexander, come with me for a moment. Isabella, please wait here." Alexander looked puzzled.
Isabella raised an eyebrow. What does that mean? He can't be asking Alexander to accompany him to the restroom because he's scared to go alone?
Alexander was speechless. What nonsense is she talking about?
Isabella's eyes lit up. Oh, I know! They dislike me and want me to leave. He's warning Alexander! Alexander's expression subtly changed. He considered this possibility, given their last unpleasant encounter.
"Just spit it out," Alexander said coldly. He had nothing to hide from Isabella.
Roland’s face paled. How am I supposed to do that? The last person who tried had a drink thrown in her face!
Faking a smile, Roland nervously suggested, "It's… nothing. Could you accompany me to the restroom?"
(Isabella's internal monologue begins, italicized and indented)
Pfft! Haha… I was just running my mouth. He stole my idea. Anyway, his expression is so weird.
Isabella's eyes flickered. She pushed Alexander toward Roland. "You guys go ahead. I'll wait here."
Relief washed over Roland. She's truly changed. So accommodating.
Alexander silently followed Roland to the restroom.
(Alexander's internal monologue begins, italicized and indented)
Hopefully, he isn't really asking me to accompany him to the restroom…
A short distance away, Roland leaned in and whispered, "Your… oh my goodness!"
Alexander was startled. Simultaneously, two voices spoke:
"Your ex-girlfriend, Eleanor, will also be coming tonight."
(Alexander's internal monologue begins, italicized and indented)
His first crush is back! And she's coming soon!
Alexander stared at Roland, then glanced at Isabella. Her eyes were wide, pupils dilated. She was processing the news.
"I'm worried about her," Roland murmured. "It's not a good idea for them to meet."
(Alexander's internal monologue begins, italicized and indented)
She already knows. More detail than any of you. How could I forget? The email specified her return time. I was too busy with gossip…
(Isabella's internal monologue begins, italicized and indented)
I almost missed this opportunity! The contract I signed is a bargain. When we divorce, I'll have two hundred million, Alexander's investments, and an agency! Complete financial freedom!
Alexander's face darkened.
(Isabella's internal monologue continues, italicized and indented)
Oh my, no heads-up for this windfall! I'm not even dolled up! No, that's not right. I should be wan and anxious. Then, when Alexander divorces me, everyone will sympathize. I've been good. He might be generous! Hehe… I must act when I see his first crush.
Alexander had initially planned to attend the party based on Isabella's preference, knowing her aversion to Eleanor. But now, their attendance was mandatory. He was determined to show her he wouldn't divorce her for someone irrelevant.
(Alexander's internal monologue begins, italicized and indented)
You want a divorce? Not a chance!
Ignoring Roland, Alexander strode toward Isabella, wrapping an arm around her and leading her toward the ballroom.
Roland was stunned. What's going on? He has no lingering feelings for Eleanor. Why does he seem angry? He can't be mad at Isabella… Could it be Eleanor?
Isabella was lost in her daydreams. She was momentarily startled but quickly returned to her fantasies. Then, she felt Alexander's arm around her, pulling her forward.
(Alexander's internal monologue begins, italicized and indented)
Let's go.
(Isabella's internal monologue begins, italicized and indented)
He's using tactics!
Alexander disregarded her thoughts.
(Isabella's internal monologue continues, italicized and indented)
He's so eager to meet his first crush, using me as a prop!
Alexander's temples throbbed.
(Isabella's internal monologue continues, italicized and indented)
But, dear ex-husband, you're jumping the gun!
Alexander was furious.
(Isabella's internal monologue continues, italicized and indented)
She's finally back, bittersweet love! Misunderstandings! I should play the wicked wife, but I can't risk it for alimony's sake!
Alexander felt drained. His arm tightened around Isabella. From Roland's perspective, they looked incredibly intimate. Roland's eyes widened. Isabella was oblivious to the growing intimacy.
(Isabella's internal monologue continues, italicized and indented)
I wonder how intense it will be. Will he lose his composure… Ouch! Why did he pinch me?
The server opened the ballroom doors. All eyes turned to Alexander and Isabella, standing close together, Alexander's arm around her waist, his hand pinching her cheek. Their intimacy was undeniable, shocking everyone. This behavior was unprecedented.