Chapter 844

They had combed through over sixty percent of Metropolia's districts, yet the missing worker remained frustratingly elusive.

A sudden realization flashed through Rosalind's mind. "I know where he is!"

Her assistant leaned forward eagerly. "You've figured it out?"

Rosalind's pulse quickened with excitement. "We need to move immediately - I'm certain he's hiding at one specific location."

"Understood. We'll leave right away."

She had been catching her breath on a nearby bench, but now sprang to her feet, anxiety coiling in her stomach.

As she turned to leave, her ankle twisted violently on the uneven pavement, sending her stumbling forward.

"Ah!" she cried out, instinctively bracing for impact.

Instead of meeting cold concrete, strong arms encircled her waist, pulling her against a solid chest that smelled faintly of sandalwood and mint.

Looking up through her lashes, Rosalind found herself staring into Lucian's striking features, partially obscured by his signature black mask.

Lucian had arrived.

He'd just exited his car when he saw her losing balance and moved with lightning reflexes to catch her.

His unexpected appearance left her momentarily speechless before she quickly righted herself. "What are you doing here?"

Those piercing eyes held hers captive. "Did you visit Quantum Innovations looking for me earlier?"

She forced a tight smile. "Yes."

"Why?"

"There was something I needed to discuss, but it's irrelevant now. I'm in a hurry, so if you'll excuse me."

She attempted to step away.

Lucian's grip tightened around her slender wrist. "Where are you rushing off to?"

Rosalind tried to pull free. "That's none of your concern! Release me - I have urgent matters to attend to."

Instead of letting go, he drew her closer, his lips curving in that infuriating half-smile. "You sought me out at my office. Now I'm here, yet you refuse to explain yourself. Are we playing games?" Her clear blue eyes met his dark ones. "Visiting your company was a mistake. Rest assured, it won't happen again."

Lucian tilted his head. "Did Genevieve say something to you?"

Hearing that name made Rosalind recall the woman's cutting words earlier.

A bitter smile touched her lips. "She merely stated facts."

Lucian pressed, "What exactly did she tell you?"

Rosalind exhaled sharply. "Nothing significant. Just that I should stop seeking you out, and that she's your current girlfriend. I really shouldn't be disturbing your relationship. The last thing I want is to cause misunderstandings-"

Lucian abruptly pulled her flush against him, cutting off her words with an amused smirk. "Would you like to know the truth about Genevieve and me?"

Rosalind blinked in surprise. "What do you mean?"

"If you wanted to understand my relationship with her, you should have asked me directly. Why listen to outsiders?"

But would his version differ significantly from what Genevieve had claimed?

Rosalind struggled against his hold. "Please let me go. I don't want anyone getting the wrong impression-"

Before she could finish, Lucian stated firmly, "Listen carefully. There is absolutely nothing between Genevieve and me. She is not my girlfriend."