Chapter 444

The air between Isabella and Alexander was thick with unspoken affection. Their silent exchange spoke volumes, a language of love that needed no grand declarations.

Nathaniel's brow furrowed as he exchanged a glance with Dominic, whose expression mirrored his unease.

"Fine, fine," Isabella sighed, turning away to hide her smirk. "Spend your fortune however you like."

Beside them, Harrison seethed, his anger simmering beneath the surface.

Sebastian noticed the way Harrison's face darkened, his lips curling into something sinister—like a predator biding its time.

But Sebastian felt no triumph. Instead, dread coiled in his gut. He knew Harrison was plotting something vile, and his only concern was keeping Isabella safe.

Instinctively, he stepped closer to her, positioning himself like an unshakable shield.

The elite guests placed their bets. Nathaniel didn't choose the Vanderbilt Group's horse or the Sinclair family's prized stallion. Instead, he followed his wife's suggestion and picked a striking white horse—not the strongest contender, but the most beautiful.

His reasoning? Aesthetics mattered.

With a careless flick of his wrist, he wagered two million on horse number fourteen as if it were pocket change. All that mattered was making his wife smile.

"Mr. Lockwood, care to place a bet?" Richard asked, standing beside William and his son with a practiced smile.

"Certainly," William replied, scanning the track through his binoculars. "But horse racing isn't just entertainment—it's an investment. I'm looking for pedigree, quality, and a capable owner. The winner will tell me everything I need to know about their business acumen."

Richard's expression tightened.

Was William scouting for new partners?

The Vanderbilt Group had already secured a deal with the Lockwood Consortium for a massive commercial project next year. But now, it seemed William had other plans.

"As you know," William continued smoothly, "our nation's emblem features a horse. Equestrian sports are beloved here, just as they are in my country. Last month, we decided to collaborate with your financial consortium to establish luxury equestrian-themed hotels in both nations."

Ford chimed in, unable to hide his smugness. "The market research is promising. This concept is untapped in Elmsworth. Introducing it here would be revolutionary."

Their conversation carried, igniting ambition in the room.

Nathaniel and Barry's eyes gleamed with opportunity. Aligning with the Lockwood Consortium could shift the power dynamics in Elmsworth—no longer would the Vanderbilt Group reign unchallenged.

Richard's pulse quickened.

He resented William's apparent reluctance to prioritize their existing partnership, but he understood the strategy. Diversification was key.

"Mr. Lockwood," Richard said confidently, "the Vanderbilt Group owns the most prestigious racecourses in Elmsworth. When it comes to equestrian facilities, no one rivals our experience."

Barry scoffed under his breath.

"Let's not exaggerate," Nathaniel interjected. "The Sinclair Group is hosting today's event at the largest racecourse in Elmsworth. That speaks for itself."

Richard remained unruffled. "You built yours later. The Vanderbilt Group was unmatched in its prime."

Nathaniel smirked. "The Kingsley Group's racecourse in Skyrim has been operational for thirty years. Their thoroughbreds are imported, their stables unparalleled. Horse quality? Not even a question."

His words were laced with disdain, a direct jab at Richard.

Barry, sensing an opening, stepped forward. "The Fairhaven Group has its own stables. Our entry today, Lucky Number Eight, is a champion."

Securing a deal with the Lockwood Consortium would elevate Barry's standing—and crush Nathaniel's influence once and for all.

Tension crackled between the three tycoons.

"Your father has remarkable patience," Sebastian murmured to Isabella.

"Tempted by the Lockwood Consortium's offer?" she teased.

"Very."

She nudged him playfully. "If you are, do you think Dominic can resist? Please, the man has four wives. He's hardly above ambition."

Sebastian chuckled at her bluntness.

"He's too used to power," Isabella mused. "People either grovel or his advisors handle negotiations. Pride keeps his hands clean."

"So what now?" Sebastian's voice dropped, his fingers tracing the curve of her waist.

His touch grew bolder, drifting lower—until her heel came down hard on his foot.

"Behave, Mr. Sebastian," she warned, flicking her hair over her shoulder. "Or next time, it'll be a horseshoe."

His gaze darkened. "Then maybe when we get home—"

"Home discussions stay at home," she cut him off, though her pulse betrayed her.

Sebastian sighed. Even affection from his wife required negotiation.

"Gentlemen," William announced, "your expertise is impressive. How about a friendly competition?"

Murmurs rippled through the crowd.

"Each of you has brought a horse for today's derby. The winner earns the Lockwood Consortium's partnership for our new resort project."

The room erupted.

Isabella's mind raced. She wanted that deal.

Sebastian leaned in. "You said Dominic's horse is average. The Vanderbilt and Fairhaven horses are worth millions. Should I arrange a replacement?"

She shook her head. "Too late. And it would insult Dominic. Besides, it's not just the horse—it's the jockey. Ours is a former champion. They'll outperform."

Just then, Mr. Bennett rushed in, his face pale.

"Mr. Dominic! Something terrible has happened!"