Chapter 335

Oliver Sinclair approached with a steaming cup of espresso and placed it carefully on the table.

"Mr. Blackwood, I've reached out to Ms. Dubois, the head of Alexa’s atelier. She’s agreed to meet with you."

Nathan Blackwood’s weary eyes flickered with renewed determination.

"Truly?"

"Yes, but she only consented to a discussion. Her tone was... less than welcoming."

Oliver exhaled sharply, his brow furrowed. "I fear this negotiation may not go smoothly."

Nathan shook his head. "As long as someone from Alexa’s team is willing to speak with me, there’s still hope."

After three tense days in Valmont, Nathan finally secured a meeting with Giselle Dubois at a quaint café near Alexa’s studio. He wasn’t even granted entry inside.

"Mr. Blackwood, forgive my bluntness." Giselle crossed her arms, her gaze sharp and unyielding. "Alexa designs exclusively for royalty, first ladies, and those who’ve made extraordinary contributions to society. While Isabella Laurent is undoubtedly a star, she doesn’t meet our criteria."

Oliver barely suppressed an eye roll. Since when is jewelry more exclusive than a military honor?

Nathan remained composed. "I understand how this may sound, but I assure you, my intentions are sincere. Years ago, I established the Hope Haven Foundation in my mother’s name. We’ve supported countless causes—orphanages, scholarships, elderly care. I’m not asking Alexa to design for a celebrity. I’m asking her to consider the greater impact."

He leaned forward. "Moreover, all proceeds from Isabella’s wedding at our hotel will be donated to charity."

Giselle’s lips curled into a cold smirk. "Are you implying Alexa lacks vision, Mr. Blackwood?"

"Not at all." Nathan’s jaw tightened.

"Many wealthy men come here cloaked in philanthropy, only to exploit Alexa’s reputation. How do we know you’re not one of them?" Her words struck like a blade. "How do we know your foundation isn’t just a front?"

Nathan’s fist clenched on his knee, knuckles whitening.

Oliver, unable to stay silent, interjected in flawless French, "Ms. Dubois, we came here in good faith. Must you be so hostile?"

Nathan raised a hand, silencing him. "Every transaction in the Hope Haven Foundation is publicly documented. I can provide full financial records for your review."

Giselle scoffed, rising from her seat without touching her coffee. "I’ll relay your proposal to Alexa. But don’t hold your breath. You’re hardly the first to beg for her attention."

She strode away, leaving Oliver fuming. "Does she always act like she’s swallowed a lemon, or is Valmont just cursed with early menopause?"

Nathan loosened his tie, exhaling slowly. "Prepare our backup plan. Alexa’s team won’t bend easily, and I doubt Evelyn can offer better terms."

"What now?" Oliver pressed.

"We focus on Isabella, but we don’t give up on Alexa." Nathan’s eyes darkened with resolve. "Monitor Evelyn’s movements. If she makes a move with Alexa, I want to know immediately."