Chapter 145

If it hadn't been for Isabella dragging her along, Seraphina would never have discovered this vast rose garden hidden in Elmsworth's Southern Suburbs.

This was Isabella's private sanctuary, separate from the Sinclair Holdings. Acres upon acres of land, all blooming with Damask roses.

Beneath the golden sunset, the garden was breathtaking. The vibrant pink roses against emerald leaves were a feast for the eyes, instantly lifting the spirits. Seraphina was mesmerized, unable to look away.

Young couples strolled hand in hand, snapping selfies, while influencers livestreamed the picturesque scenery. The lively atmosphere eased the tension Seraphina had carried from work.

With their striking looks, they drew admiring glances from every direction.

To any onlooker, they appeared to be the perfect match.

Seraphina bent down, fingertips brushing the delicate petals of a rose. She inhaled deeply, her nose wrinkling playfully as the sweet fragrance enveloped her. Pure delight lit up her face.

Isabella watched her with tender amusement. "Ms. Seraphina, you outshine every rose here."

She laughed, tossing her hair. "I know I'm stunning, but I appreciate the compliment."

He stepped closer, hope flickering in his gaze. "Can I call you Seraphina, like when we were kids? And you can call me Izzy, just like before?"

Discomfort prickled through her. Her feelings for him had shifted since childhood. While his affection seemed unchanged, to her, he was now a stranger.

After a pause, she replied gently, "Maybe once we get reacquainted, I'll call you that again."

His eyes brightened. "I believe we can be as close as we once were. I'll wait for that day."

Eager to shift the subject, Seraphina gestured to the fields. "Isabella, what's the annual yield here? What are the cultivation costs? Have any companies secured exclusive contracts with you?"

A knowing smile curved his lips. "Ms. Seraphina, are you proposing a partnership?"

"Absolutely," she said without hesitation.

From the moment she stepped into the garden, business possibilities had ignited in her mind. Since returning to Sinclair Holdings, she'd been strategizing an expansion into the female market—rose-infused cosmetics and skincare. Time constraints had delayed the project, but this garden reignited her ambition.

"Damask roses symbolize love and beauty," she explained, her eyes alight with passion. "Their oil is precious, beneficial for both body and mind. Importing it is costly, and domestic growers are rare. With this resource, we could form a powerful alliance. You supply the roses; I'll transform them into luxury products. Together, we can turn this garden into more than just a tourist attraction. We can create a brand women adore, with profits beyond measure."

Isabella studied her intently, a slow smile spreading across his handsome face.

Truthfully, he barely registered her business pitch. Over the years, countless investors had shown interest in his roses, but he'd dismissed them all.

This sea of flowers? It existed for one reason only—to lure her here.

When he remained silent, Seraphina assumed he was considering her proposal. "I know it's sudden," she said with a light laugh. "It's a massive project, so take your time to think it over. No rush."

Outside the manor, Nathaniel stood in the fading sunlight, gazing at the blooming roses with a troubled heart.

He knew the Sinclairs and the Lockwoods were close. Mr. Reginald and Chairman William were like brothers. Isabella's feelings for Seraphina were obvious.

Normally, Seraphina was ice-cold toward men—just look at how she treated Dominic. Brutal.

But with Isabella? She wasn't nearly as distant. She even seemed willing to spend more time with him.

Sure, his past heroics played a role, but Nathaniel sensed something more.

Was it possible...?

He sighed heavily.

Just then, three sleek luxury cars approached.

A Maybach led the procession, its license plate sending a chill down Nathaniel's spine.

The Abernathy Group. Alexander's car.

The vehicle stopped. Gordon exited first, then respectfully opened the door for Alexander.

Cool as ever, Alexander adjusted his suit cuffs and stepped out in pristine handmade shoes.

"Fantastic," Nathaniel muttered under his breath.

A slender hand extended from the car.

"Alex, could you help me?"

Alexander hesitated, then offered his hand.

Adriana seized it eagerly, as if afraid he'd withdraw it. Her face glowed with triumph.

Even with Alexander's expression as frosty as ever, she was certain she could win him back.

Watching the pair walk toward the manor hand in hand, Nathaniel barely suppressed a scoff.

"Alex, I only came because I wanted to see the flowers. Am I bothering you?"

Adriana's eyes shimmered with unshed tears, her grip tightening. "Maybe I should go back. I don't want to be a burden."

In truth, Alexander hadn't come to admire roses. He was here for a business inspection.

This estate boasted the largest Damask rose fields in Elmsworth—perhaps the entire state. He'd brought botany experts to assess the soil and flower quality. If all met standards, he'd negotiate a supply deal for Abernathy's upcoming skincare line.

But Adriana had somehow learned of his plans and insisted on joining.

Given her recent instability—suicidal tendencies and severe depression—her therapist had recommended outdoor exposure. Reluctantly, Alexander had agreed.

"It's fine," he said flatly. "The doctor said nature would help."

"Alex, thank you." Her voice trembled. "You still care about me." She leaned into him.

Alexander stiffened, his jaw tightening with visible distaste.

"Mr. Abernathy!" Gordon whispered urgently. "Isn't that Ms. Seraphina's secretary?"

Alexander's head snapped up. His pulse spiked.

Where Nathaniel was, Seraphina couldn't be far.

Was she here? To see the flowers?

He immediately dismissed the thought.

No. That woman didn't do anything without a purpose.

She was here for the business.