The Wife He Dumped, The Queen She Returned As novel Chapter 308

"I see. I'm so sorry, I should have asked more questions beforehand. If I had known Ms. Reed wanted to go, I absolutely would not have accepted it. I thought I was simply helping the institute out with scheduling. I never imagined I was accidentally stealing her opportunity."

Her words were sincere, elegant, and perfectly measured.

Everyone believed her.

After all, Isabella was currently the hottest female interpreter at the institute, her online popularity rising steadily, boasting an aura remarkably similar to Caroline Monet's back in the day.

The institute was fully intending to mold her into the next Caroline.

She couldn't even keep up with her official engagements; there was no way she would intentionally poach a non-official gig like this.

Chloe looked up. "It's fine."

Isabella didn't stop there. Looking past Chloe, she addressed Quentin.

"Quentin, at the end of the day, this was thoughtless on my part. Why don't I go with you to talk to Monica? I shouldn't have taken this event. It belongs to Ms. Reed."

The way the others looked at Isabella instantly filled with admiration.

It was common in the institute for senior or famous interpreters to bully newcomers out of their assignments.

Especially an event with presidential-level access—countless people would fight tooth and nail for it.

For Isabella, a socialite at the height of her popularity, to stick to her principles and not take advantage of a subordinate was truly rare.

Quentin's face betrayed no emotion. "Just attend it as planned."

Isabella insisted, "Quentin, this event is a massive deal for Ms. Reed. Even if it was an accident, I don't want to steal someone else's chance."

Quentin replied, "If that's the case, next time you take an event, get all the facts first. It'll save you trouble later."

"..."

Isabella's composure cracked slightly, clearly unprepared for his response.

After a brief moment, she lowered her eyes, offering no argument. She just gave a gentle nod. "You're right. It was an oversight on my part. I'll be more careful next time."

The others, however, stared at Quentin in sheer disbelief.

Wasn't it common knowledge that he harbored a secret crush on Isabella?

Weren't they childhood sweethearts destined to get married in the next few years?

Why did his words sound like he was reprimanding her?

It even sounded like he was sticking up for Chloe...

Could the rumors have been wrong all along?

In front of everyone's watchful eyes, Quentin enunciated every word clearly.

"Watch your boundaries. From now on, just call me by my first name."

"...Why?" A nearly invisible ripple of emotion passed through Isabella's eyes. "You're my..."

Quentin cut her off. "Work is work. And regarding work matters, contact me during business hours."

"I don't want anyone getting the wrong idea."

With that, he took Chloe by the arm and walked out.

Isabella stood rooted to the spot, watching their retreating figures. Her gaze ultimately settled on the striking, long-haired woman.

He didn't want anyone getting the wrong idea?

Who was anyone?

She pursed her lips slightly, her eyes darkening.

The same question echoed in everyone else's minds.

Had Quentin Shaw really been snatched up by this woman named Chloe?