He had already noticed something odd about Isabella's interactions with Lucas before.

Now, with Ethan involved, his doubts grew stronger, pushing him to investigate further.

A heavy feeling settled in Isabella's chest as she heard the sharpness in Alexander's voice, a dark premonition rising within her.

She started to explain, but Lucas was faster.

"We're good friends," Lucas said smoothly, his smile relaxed and manner calm as if discussing something trivial. "If there's one thing about Isabella, it's that she gets results. Her business proposals are impressive. Mr. King, I guarantee, hearing her pitch would be worthwhile."

His tone held a subtle hint of protectiveness, and his eyes briefly flickered to Isabella with concern.

Alexander's attention snapped back to Lucas, his expression hardening. "You've gone to such efforts—hosting this event, even threatening my niece—and you expect me to believe you're just friends?"

Having dealt with all types in his career, Alexander wasn't one to take people at their word, and Lucas's explanations did little to convince him.

Alexander long understood that in the ruthless business world, deception was more common than honesty, and Lucas's behavior suggested his motives went beyond friendship.

Lucas's smile faded, freezing as he felt the atmosphere shift.

"I'm sorry. If there's any need for cooperation, I'll contact Ethan directly. I see no need for intermediaries," Alexander stated, his voice dripping with disdain. He continued, his tone sharper, "Miss Scott, networking is fine, but your focus should be on more important matters."

At his words, Isabella's grip on her champagne flute tightened, her knuckles turning white. She took a deep breath, a practiced smile hiding her inner turmoil. Lucas's face showed panic, and he stepped closer, urgency in his voice. "Mr. King, please, you've got it wrong…"

But Alexander was done talking. He turned to leave when Isabella's voice, clear and strong, cut through the noise of the banquet hall. "Everyone praises your business sense, Mr. King, but it seems you don't live up to the hype."

Alexander stopped, surprise flashing across his face. He was used to admiration, and the public criticism sparked anger.

He turned slowly, his eyes narrowing, a dangerous edge in his voice. "What did you just say?"

Gently tugging Isabella's sleeve, Lucas whispered urgently, "Isabella, let it go."

He knew well how Alexander preferred to handle things—with diplomacy, not confrontation.

But Isabella shook off his touch, her lips curling into a sarcastic smile. "What's the problem? Isn't business all about using networks and connections? Don't tell me you've never leveraged connections, Mr. King?"

Despite her casual tone, her words were sharp and pointed.

Alexander paused, his expression darkening into a scowl. His jaw tightened, and his eyes narrowed, clearly on the verge of anger.

Sweat formed on Lucas's palms as he clenched his fists. Instinctively, he moved closer to Isabella, ready to shield her if needed.

Despite the rising tension, Isabella remained calm and resolute.

"Were my actions really that unacceptable, Mr. King?" she challenged. "You judge me as if I've done something wrong. Is it simply because I'm a woman?" She locked eyes with Alexander, her gaze steady and unyielding.