Isabella Scott met Sophia Reed's gaze with perfect calm. A knowing smile touched her lips. "Miss Reed, this isn't your fault."

The response visibly startled Sophia. She clearly hadn't expected such words.

"Everyone has flaws. It appears you simply lack a certain… basic awareness," Isabella continued. Her tone was light, yet each word carried a sharp, precise edge.

Fury instantly twisted Sophia's beautiful features. The insult landed with the force of a physical blow.

Isabella's attention drifted casually to the stunning sapphire necklace adorning Charlotte Sterling's neck. Her smile widened subtly.

"This exquisite sapphire symbolizes eternal love. A perfect representation of Mr. and Mrs. Sterling's unwavering commitment to one another." Charlotte gently touched the gem, her face radiant with happiness. "Isabella has impeccable taste. This piece is truly magnificent."

All color drained from Sophia's face. Heat rushed to her cheeks, a sensation identical to a stinging slap. Her hands clenched into tight fists, nails digging painfully into her palms.

Overcome with humiliation, she abruptly turned and fled the gathering.

Isabella watched Sophia's hasty retreat. Her expression remained a mask of serene composure.

Lucas Grant lowered his eyes, lost in thought. He had believed he was helping Isabella. Now, it was clear… she didn't require his assistance.

William Sterling seized the moment to make a public declaration. "I wish to extend my deepest gratitude to Miss Scott. Her studio has demonstrated exceptional skill and professionalism." His powerful voice filled the grand banquet hall. "It is with great pleasure I announce the next Sterling Industries jewelry exhibition will be managed exclusively by Miss Scott and her team."

A brief, stunned silence fell over the crowd. Then, the hall erupted into even more animated discussion than before.

The management of Sterling Industries' upcoming exhibition was a highly coveted, prestigious opportunity. Many had fought fiercely for it.

Yet, William had handed it to Isabella without a second thought. Even Isabella was surprised by the magnitude of this gesture. She hadn't anticipated it.

The banquet hall buzzed with the constant, gentle clinking of crystal.

A distinguished middle-aged man approached. His hair was impeccably styled, his deep blue suit sharp and expensive. He carried a wine glass and wore a beaming smile.

"Miss Scott, I've heard so much praise for your work! Seeing you now, I'm certain it was all entirely justified!"

Isabella offered a polite nod. She raised her own glass, meeting his in a delicate toast. "Thank you, Mr. Campbell. The pleasure is mine. I hope we have the opportunity to work together." Her smile was modest, yet genuine.

Robert Campbell's gaze held deep admiration. It lingered on her gracefully slender neck.

"Miss Scott, you are truly remarkable," he said. He paused thoughtfully, then ventured a cautious question. "Might I be so bold as to ask… are you currently married?"

Isabella was momentarily taken aback. She soon responded with a soft smile and a slight shake of her head. Her past with Ethan Blackwood felt like a lifetime ago.

"Not yet," she answered simply.