Chapter 292

That voice cut through the air like a blade.

It struck Alexander Kingsley straight through the heart.

Isabella Sinclair snapped out of her daze, her pulse racing as if caught red-handed. She twisted violently, breaking free from Alexander's iron grip before shoving him away with all her might.

Alexander stumbled back, his arms empty.

Only cold air remained where she'd been.

"Mr. Lockwood, what are you doing here?" Isabella's voice shook despite her efforts to steady it. Her wide eyes betrayed her panic.

Beneath his tailored grey suit, Sebastian Lockwood's body trembled with barely contained fury. He adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses, his glare at Alexander burning with undisguised hatred.

Alexander caught the fleeting expression. His starry eyes narrowed dangerously, a predator sensing a challenge.

When it came to intimidation, Alexander Kingsley never backed down.

Especially not in front of the woman he loved.

Isabella saw the murderous glint in Alexander's eyes and knew he wanted to tear Sebastian apart.

She thought bitterly, "He's the one who crossed the line first. What did Sebastian do wrong except interrupt his little game? Shameless man!"

"Isabella! Are you alright?"

Sebastian moved swiftly to her side, his voice softening with concern. "Do you need help?"

"No, I'm fine." She forced a smile, though her forehead glistened with sweat.

Alexander's jealousy burned like wildfire.

That smile - she hadn't given him one like that in so long.

Now she offered it freely to Sebastian.

"You don't look fine." Sebastian positioned himself protectively beside her, radiating ownership without touching her. He glanced dismissively at Alexander. "Should I have him removed?"

The casual threat hung in the air like a declaration of war.

Alexander's fists clenched, knuckles white.

If Isabella weren't present, Sebastian would already be on the floor.

"He can leave on his own." Isabella's voice was ice, refusing to look at Alexander.

"Then, Isabella, will you come with me?"

Her eyes widened in surprise.

Alexander's control snapped. "Sebastian," he growled, "do you even hear yourself?"

"Perfectly. Unlike some who don't know how to behave."

Sebastian stepped fully between them, smirking. "Can't you see she loathes you? You're not her husband anymore. Keep this up and I'll have you arrested, Mr. Kingsley."

"Enough." Isabella lowered her lashes, speaking to Alexander with finality. "Leave. Now."

"Isabella!"

"I said go!" Her temper flared. "I don't want to see you, Alexander. Not now. Not ever."

The words hit like a physical blow, draining color from Alexander's face.

His jaw locked, rage choking him.

Sebastian's lips curled in a secret, satisfied smile.

Few things in life truly satisfied him.

But hurting Alexander Kingsley? That always did.

"Why are you here, Mr. Lockwood?" Isabella finally asked.

"I've moved in. Right behind your villa." His gaze softened. "We're neighbors now."

"What?" Shock flashed across her features.

Alexander felt a cold dread settle in his stomach.

"I said we're neighbors, Isabella." Sebastian tilted his head, extending a well-manicured hand. "Hello, new neighbor. Looking forward to getting to know you better."

Bemused, Isabella shook his hand politely.

Just like that, she erased Alexander - her ex-husband, the man who should have been closest to her - from the equation.

"Isabella, would you like to see my new place?" Sebastian seized the opportunity. "I've got fresh salmon, lobster - all your favorites. I'll cook for you." Every syllable dripped with affection.

The perfect gentleman every woman dreamed of.

"Another time. We'll have plenty of chances as neighbors." Her mind reeled; this wasn't the moment for house tours.

"My mother's joining us tonight."

Sebastian's earnest gaze held hers. "I told her I'd invite you. She was delighted - it's been years since she last saw you."

"Mrs. Lockwood returned from Geneva?"

"Yes, I brought her back." His smile widened.

"How wonderful."

Alexander was dying inside.

Helpless. Useless. A spectator in his own tragedy.

Alexander Kingsley, titan of industry, reduced to this - a fool, a joke.

"Isabella, you know her condition. Her lucid moments are rare." Sebastian's eyes clouded with melancholy, expertly playing on sympathies. "I'd consider it a personal favor if you could see her while she's coherent. Would you mind?"

Between family ties and Sebastian's plea, refusal seemed impossible. Her evening was free anyway.

"Of course, Mr. Lockwood."

Alexander vibrated with suppressed fury.

"No trouble at all. Thank you for indulging me." Sebastian's eyes sparkled as he gestured gallantly for Isabella to precede him.

They walked out together, leaving Alexander behind.

But he wasn't defeated yet. Alexander Kingsley didn't surrender - not to Sebastian Lockwood, not when the woman he loved was walking away with another man.

His heart hammered as he lunged forward.

"Isabella!"

Sebastian anticipated the move. Whirling around, his fist connected with Alexander's jaw in a vicious punch!