Chapter 831

Perhaps Rosalind and Everett's story had truly ended three years ago.

Yet destiny had its own twisted sense of humor—no matter how far Rosalind tried to distance herself, their paths kept crossing. She had come here for a simple meal, and there he stood, Lucian Graves, right before her.

When the executives remarked how perfectly she and Julian complemented each other, Rosalind offered nothing more than a polite, practiced smile.

But Lucian interpreted that smile differently. Silence could be mistaken for agreement, and with both Rosalind and Julian unattached, speculation was inevitable.

Julian chuckled lightly. "Mr. Whitmore, let's not tease Rosalind like this. I don’t mind, but she might get flustered."

The other businessmen exchanged knowing smirks.

"Didn’t realize you were so protective, Professor Ashford."

"You and Ms. Fairchild seem quite close."

"Enough joking," one executive interjected. "Are you two here for lunch?"

Julian nodded. "Yes. Mrs. Whitmore and my mother are here as well."

He glanced toward the entrance. Lucian followed his gaze and spotted a group of elegantly dressed women—Rosalind’s mother Victoria, Julian’s mother Margaret Ashford, and several high-society socialites—laughing together.

Lucian’s expression remained unreadable as he averted his eyes.

Then, one of the executives spoke up. "Mr. Graves, I noticed you looking at Ms. Fairchild earlier. How do you know each other?"

Instead of answering, Lucian turned his piercing gaze to Rosalind. "Ms. Fairchild, do we know each other?"

He redirected the question to her, forcing her to respond.

Rosalind’s lashes flickered briefly before she answered smoothly, "Yes, we’ve met. He once helped me, and I remain grateful."

Her words were gracious, yet carefully measured to maintain distance.

A shadow of something unreadable flickered in Lucian’s cold, sharp eyes.

"Ah, what a coincidence!" someone remarked. "Mr. Graves actually assisted Ms. Fairchild?"

"Let’s go," Lucian cut in abruptly.

"Right, we’re here today to discuss business with Mr. Graves. His time is valuable, so we shouldn’t keep him waiting."

The executives followed as Lucian strode away without another glance.

Julian watched his retreating figure. "So that’s the prodigy of Quantum Innovations—Lucian Graves. He looks young, probably around our age."

Rosalind nodded. "Yes, he is."

"Rumor has it he built his empire from nothing. Self-made men like him are rare these days. Truly remarkable," Julian mused, admiration clear in his voice.

Rosalind’s gaze lingered where Lucian had disappeared. Three years ago, he had been a struggling nobody. Now, he was a titan of industry. The journey between those two lives must have been brutal.

Just then, Victoria called from the private dining room. "Rosalind, come along. We’re waiting."

Rosalind turned to Julian. "I should go."

He smiled. "Of course. See you later."

Inside the dining room, Victoria studied her daughter over the meal. "What do you think of Julian?"

Rosalind considered her words. "He’s kind, intelligent, and refined. A man of excellent character."

Victoria’s lips curved knowingly. "Perhaps you should give him a chance."