Chapter 815

Rosalind shot Julian a frosty glare. He was practically itching to throw her out.

Without hesitation, she seized Lucian's sleeve, her voice dropping to a hushed whisper. "Mr. Graves, please don’t let them take me away."

Lucian glanced down at her slender fingers gripping the pristine black fabric of his tailored suit. The stark contrast between her delicate skin and the dark material was impossible to ignore.

Reginald turned to Lucian with a raised brow. "Lucian, who is this?"

Since Rosalind stood slightly behind him, the question was naturally directed at Lucian.

Julian, too, had noticed Rosalind entering with Lucian. His jaw tightened. "Mr. Graves, do you know Rosalind? What exactly is your relationship with her?"

Lucian regarded Julian coolly. "Why does it concern you?"

Julian’s voice turned sharp. "You should know—she’s my fiancée."

Lucian’s gaze flickered to Rosalind. "Is that true?"

Rosalind shook her head vehemently. "It’s complicated. But one thing’s certain—I’m not marrying him!"

Hidden behind his mask, Lucian’s expression remained unreadable. Then, unexpectedly, he slid an arm around Rosalind’s shoulders, pulling her close.

She stiffened in surprise, while Julian’s face darkened.

Lucian addressed Reginald smoothly. "This is my girlfriend, Rosalind Fairchild. I brought her along tonight."

Reginald’s eyes widened with delight. "You finally have a girlfriend?"

Rosalind’s breath hitched. She hadn’t expected Lucian to claim her as his girlfriend.

He leaned in, his voice a low murmur against her ear. "It’s the only way to keep you here. Just play along."

Rosalind didn’t hesitate. "Oh, I don’t mind at all. In fact, I’m getting the better deal."

Being Lucian Graves’ "girlfriend" would give her the leverage she needed.

She looped her arm through his and flashed Reginald a dazzling smile. "Mr. Blackwood, it’s an honor to meet you. I’m Lucian’s… well, girlfriend. I’ve heard so much about you."

Reginald chuckled warmly. "The pleasure is mine, Ms. Fairchild."

He waved off the two security guards lingering nearby. "You may leave. Ms. Fairchild is my guest."

The guards bowed and retreated.

Julian looked like he’d been struck. Rosalind—Lucian’s girlfriend? Since when?

For the past three years, Rosalind had shown no interest in dating. Countless men had pursued her, yet she’d rejected them all.

Julian knew this better than anyone. So how had she suddenly become involved with Lucian Graves, the rising tech mogul?

"Mr. Graves, is this some kind of joke?" Julian demanded. "Rosalind is my fiancée!"

Rosalind scoffed. "I’ve told you—I’m not marrying you! I’m with Lucian now."

Julian’s eyes narrowed. "I don’t believe this. You’re faking it, aren’t you?"

Rosalind’s pulse spiked. He was too perceptive.

"Mr. Blackwood, they’re lying!" Julian turned to Reginald, his voice rising. "She’s just pretending!"