Chapter 134

So, Michael wasn't really here for the banquet. Sure, he got an invite, but he had zero plans to actually attend. The real reason he showed up was because Jerry had brought Estella back from overseas, and she was crashing at a hotel right next door.

Michael showed up a couple of hours before the banquet was supposed to kick off. He figured he could dodge Isabella by arriving early, but surprise, surprise, they bumped into each other near the parking lot.

Michael had to think on his feet. He decided to take Isabella to the banquet first, while Jerry kept Estella busy for a bit.

Meanwhile, in the hotel's presidential suite, Estella was nervously perched on the sofa, with Jerry sitting across from her.

Jerry picked up Michael's call and nodded after hearing that Michael would be running late.

Estella asked cautiously, "Mr. Nelson, was that Mr. Williams on the phone?"

Jerry nodded. "Yeah, Mr. Williams has some stuff to handle and might be late. He asked you to hang tight here for a while."

Estella didn't object-or rather, she didn't dare to. She knew her shot at stardom was riding on Michael, the business whiz.

The room got quiet, and things felt a bit awkward. Jerry cleared his throat to get Estella's attention.

"Since Mr. Williams can't make it right now, why don't you go over what I told you again? Refresh your memory. Mr. Williams isn't a fan of repeating himself," Jerry suggested, looking at Estella.

Estella nodded and recited everything Jerry had told her earlier.

"My marriage to Mr. Williams is fake. It's all just to keep his family happy! I must not publicize our marriage or use his status to do anything that could harm his reputation. Until the contract expires, I can't date or get involved with anyone else!" Estella finished and looked at Jerry, her eyes cautious.

Jerry nodded approvingly. "Good, you got it all down. As long as you stick to this, Mr. Williams will help you reach your dreams."

Estella clenched her fists, nodding excitedly. Then she asked curiously, "Can I ask why Mr. Williams is doing this?"

Jerry's expression turned cold. "Don't ask questions that aren't your business."

Estella immediately nodded, looking scared. "Sorry, I asked too much."

When Michael came out of the restroom, he was surprised to find Isabella hadn't taken the elevator up.

"Didn't I ask you to wait for me upstairs? Why are you still here? Do you think the invite I gave you is fake?" Michael joked.

Isabella rolled her eyes and pulled Michael into the elevator. "I don't get any of that science stuff. What if people think I'm some kind of scientist and start asking me professional questions I can't answer? That would be so embarrassing. It's better to stick with you. At least you look more like a scientist than I do."

Michael could feel Isabella's grip on his arm tighten, sensing her nerves.

He smiled but didn't call her out on it.

When the elevator dinged open on the conference floor, Isabella followed Michael out.

Just like Michael had said, the banquet was pretty laid-back. No one was dressed up too fancy; everyone was keeping it casual.

Scientists were mingling, chatting away, and some were gathered around listening to someone talk about their latest invention or discovery.

Isabella quickly spotted Kevin and Gabrielle among the crowd. She'd been studying their profiles for the past couple of days and knew exactly what they looked like.

Suddenly, Kevin noticed Michael. He grabbed Gabrielle and walked over with a big smile. "Mr. Williams, wow, it's been years! I can't believe you actually showed up."

Michael smiled and hugged Kevin. "Yeah, it's been a while. Mrs. Hamilton, you look as stunning as ever. Let me introduce you to my wife, Isabella."

Isabella greeted Kevin and Gabrielle politely. Before her family hit hard times, she had attended numerous formal dinners, so she understood the propriety of a more gradual approach to her request.

"I can't believe you're married! When did this happen? Why didn't you tell me? That's really not cool-I didn't get a wedding invite!" Kevin said, sounding a bit miffed.

Michael waved it off with a laugh. "It's just paperwork for now. We haven't had the actual wedding yet because I've been swamped. But don't worry, when we do have the ceremony, you'll definitely be on the guest list."

Kevin finally smiled, looking satisfied. He turned to Isabella and asked, "So, where do you work, Isabella? I'm curious about the lucky lady who snagged Mr. Williams."

Isabella felt a spark of excitement. Kevin's question was the perfect opening to mention her company and steer the conversation her way.

"I work at Luminous Beauty, and I'm the director of the design department," Isabella said, stopping there. Kevin was sharp; she didn't need to over-explain. He'd get the hint.

As she expected, Kevin hesitated when she mentioned Luminous Beauty, giving her a knowing look. "I'm quite familiar with that company."

Isabella smiled and didn't push further, instead giving Michael's arm a gentle squeeze.

Michael got the message. He smiled and extended his hand to Kevin. "Let's head over there and chat. I've got some academic questions I'd love to discuss with you. No need to bore the ladies with that stuff."

Kevin nodded with a smile and turned to the ladies. "Gabrielle, Isabella, hope you have a nice chat."

Gabrielle returned a warm smile.