Chapter 812

The concierge offered Rosalind a regretful smile. "I apologize, Ms. Fairchild, but our exclusive club maintains stringent membership policies. We must adhere to protocol, so I kindly ask you not to press the matter."

Just then, a voice dripping with arrogance cut through the air. "Well, well, if it isn't Rosalind."

Rosalind spun around to face Julian Blackwood, who had swapped his usual tailored suits for a designer golf shirt. His gleaming black Lamborghini sat parked nearby, reflecting the afternoon sun.

Julian's lips curled into a mocking grin. "Here to see Mr. Blackwood? What an amusing coincidence. He personally invited me for a round of golf." His eyes raked over her with deliberate slowness. "Though it appears you're having some...access issues. Perhaps if you asked nicely, I might consider granting you entry."

Rosalind's eyes flashed with defiance. "Don't flatter yourself."

"Oh, but I do," Julian purred, stepping closer. "And I intend to keep doing so. This is merely the beginning." The underlying menace in his tone was unmistakable.

At that moment, Reginald's personal assistant materialized. "Mr. Blackwood, right this way. Mr. Blackwood is expecting you."

Julian's smirk widened. "Perfect timing." He deliberately brushed past Rosalind. "Still want to play the proud card? Your stubbornness only makes this more entertaining for me."

"Go to hell," Rosalind spat.

Julian threw his head back with a laugh. "Mark my words - the day will come when you'll be begging at my feet. I'll be counting the hours."

With that final taunt, he disappeared into the club's lavish interior, leaving Rosalind seething at the entrance. Her fists clenched at her sides as she weighed her limited options.

Frustrated, she reached for her phone to call Oliver for assistance.

Inside the club, Julian found Reginald waiting near the first tee. "Mr. Blackwood, always a pleasure."

Their handshake was firm, the grip of two powerful men acknowledging each other's status.

Reginald nodded. "Julian, it's been too long."

"Indeed," Julian agreed smoothly. "My overseas ventures kept me occupied longer than anticipated."

His gaze flickered toward the entrance where Rosalind remained barred from entry. The fire in her resistance only fueled his determination to break her.

"Shall we begin our game?" Julian suggested, already calculating when to steer the conversation toward Whitmore Holdings.

Reginald waved a dismissive hand. "Patience. We're expecting another guest."

Julian's eyebrows lifted in genuine surprise. "You've invited someone else today?"

A knowing smile played on Reginald's lips. "An old friend - someone quite special."

The distinction wasn't lost on Julian. Where he was merely a business associate, this mystery guest held personal significance to Reginald.

"May I ask who this esteemed individual is?" Julian inquired, curiosity piqued.

"Lucian Graves," Reginald revealed. "The visionary behind Quantum Innovations."

Quantum Innovations?

Julian certainly knew of the tech giant. Despite being founded only three years prior, the company's meteoric rise had become business legend. Its IPO in Sterling two years ago had sent shockwaves through the market, with valuations doubling repeatedly to cement its status as an industry titan.

The founder remained an enigma - no public appearances, no interviews. Only a name whispered in corporate circles: Lucian Graves.

Julian repeated the name silently, recalibrating his understanding of Reginald's connections. To count such a powerful recluse as a personal friend spoke volumes.

"We met during my time abroad," Reginald continued. "Found myself in a rather delicate situation, and Lucian...well, let's just say he has a particular talent for resolving complicated matters. Beyond that, his business acumen is unparalleled. We've maintained a close friendship ever since."

Reginald checked his platinum wristwatch. "He should be arriving any moment now."

The implication was clear - whatever business Julian had planned would need to wait for this more important guest. Julian schooled his features into polite interest, even as his mind raced with possibilities about the mysterious Lucian Graves' impending arrival.