Chapter 818

A dark, intense gaze suddenly pinned Rosalind where she stood. She lifted her chin to meet Julian's piercing eyes.

He had witnessed every playful exchange between her and Lucian moments ago, and his fury was palpable. The stark contrast in how she treated him versus Lucian only fueled his rage further.

Rosalind had initially felt awkward, but under Julian's scorching glare, her defiance flared. She met his stare head-on. "It's Lucian's turn now. He won't lose to you!"

Julian's lips curled into a dangerous smile. "I'll be watching very carefully."

Lucian accepted the golf club from Julian with quiet confidence.

Rosalind immediately cheered from her spot. "You've got this, Lucian!"

Their eyes met briefly before Lucian focused on the distant hole. With one fluid motion, he swung - the ball arced perfectly through the air and dropped straight into the target.

Rosalind's breath caught. She hadn't anticipated such skill. His form was impeccable, more refined even than Julian's - who had been golfing since childhood. The effortless grace of his movements was mesmerizing.

Her excitement bubbled over. "That's one point for us! Lucian, you're incredible!"

A subtle smile touched Lucian's lips in response.

Reginald applauded. "Your technique has improved remarkably. Now you're tied."

Initially, Julian hadn't considered Lucian a threat. But the undeniable chemistry between him and Rosalind changed everything. Lucian was boldly crossing into Julian's territory without hesitation.

As a man, Julian recognized the danger immediately.

He resolved to investigate Lucian thoroughly upon returning. This mysterious man's origins needed uncovering.

"Mr. Graves," Julian said coolly, "since we're tied, the next point decides everything. Let's leave it to Mr. Blackwood and Rosalind."

"Agreed."

Reginald stepped forward with the club. His swing sent the ball veering off course.

"Close attempt," Lucian remarked with amusement.

Reginald turned to Rosalind. "I may have missed, but honestly, Ms. Fairchild's golf skills are worse than mine. I'm genuinely curious to see her attempt."

Now under pressure, Rosalind felt nervousness creeping in.

Lucian moved to her side. "Feeling anxious?"

She nodded honestly. "If I'd known this would happen, I would've practiced properly. I really don't want to lose now."

Lucian studied her delicate features. "Golf is simpler than it appears. I can teach you."

"Really? Thank you!"

As Rosalind lifted the club, Lucian positioned himself behind her, his arms encircling her.

The sudden proximity froze her completely. Aside from Everett, no man had ever held her this way. Cradled against his chest, her petite frame seemed to fit perfectly. Every muscle in her body tensed.

Then, his warm breath brushed her ear as his deep voice murmured, "Focus on learning, not thinking."

The gentle reminder snapped her to attention. "Right."

Lucian guided her small hands with his own, beginning the lesson.