Chapter 838

With those words, Rosalind turned on her heel and walked away.

Genevieve watched Rosalind's retreating figure with a knowing smile curling her lips.

"Ms. Graves, would you like me to escort you upstairs? Mr. Graves is still in his board meeting," the receptionist offered politely.

Genevieve waved a manicured hand dismissively. "No need. I know my way. Actually..." She leaned in conspiratorially. "Lucian has been swamped lately. Don't bother him with trivial matters—like that woman who just came by. No need to mention her visit at all."

The receptionist nodded eagerly. "Understood, Ms. Graves."

Genevieve reached into her designer bag and produced a sleek gold tube. "I picked up this limited edition shade today. It would complement your complexion perfectly—consider it a token of appreciation."

The receptionist's eyes sparkled as she accepted the gift. "You're too kind! If there's anything I can do for you..."

Genevieve's smile deepened, her crimson lips curving like a satisfied cat.

Rosalind returned to the Whitmore estate where Victoria immediately intercepted her. "Where have you been?"

"I went to see Lucian," Rosalind admitted.

"And?"

"I never got past the lobby. He's made it clear he doesn't want to see me."

Victoria's brow furrowed. "Then it's settled. You need to move on. The Ashfords just called—Julian heard about our situation and offered assistance."

It was an obvious overture. Julian's help would come with strings attached—namely, Rosalind's hand in marriage.

Rosalind shook her head vehemently. "I won't accept Julian's charity. Isn't Alistair still tracking down that factory worker? I'm going with him."

Before Victoria could protest, Rosalind was already striding toward the door.

Victoria sighed heavily. "That stubborn girl..."

Just then, the front door swung open, and Lillian breezed in.

"Mother, I'm home—"

Victoria enveloped her in a warm embrace. "Welcome back, darling! You must be starving. Rosalind made sure the kitchen prepared all your favorites. Look at you—working at that research facility has made you too thin!"

As Lillian's godparents, Alistair and Victoria doted on her as if she were their own daughter.

Lillian glanced around expectantly. "Where's Rosalind?"

"She went out."

"Where?"

Normally, Rosalind would be waiting with open arms whenever Lillian visited.

Victoria hesitated. "There's something... perhaps I shouldn't mention it."

Lillian straightened. "I'm not a child anymore. If it concerns me, you must tell me."

Victoria relented. "Your brother has returned."

Lillian froze, then her face lit up like fireworks. "Everett's back?!"

Victoria nodded. "He goes by Lucian Graves now—founder of Quantum Innovations. You have another protector now."

Tears shimmered in Lillian's eyes. "My brother's alive! Is Rosalind with him now?"

Victoria's expression turned complicated. "Actually... Rosalind and Everett are finished."

Lillian recoiled. "That's impossible! They were inseparable! I'm going to see him myself—right now!"

Without another word, Lillian spun toward the door.

"Wait!" Victoria called after her. "At least let the driver take you!"