Chapter 849

Victoria tenderly grasped Rosalind's hand.

"Whatever happened between you and Mr. Graves, we'll never forget his kindness. Why don't you call him? Your father and I would like to invite him for dinner to express our gratitude."

Alistair nodded in agreement. "Indeed, we should take Mr. Graves out. It's been years since I last saw him."

Lucian had once been Alistair's student under his former identity, Everett, and Alistair had always held him in high regard. Given everything Lucian had done for the Whitmore family, this dinner was the least they could offer.

Lillian hadn't attended university for the past three days. The Whitmores' warmth had made her feel like part of the family. After everything that had happened, she was determined to stay until they overcame this crisis before returning to the research facility.

"There's no need to invite Lucian to dinner. He helped because it was his duty. As long as our family is safe, that's all that matters," Lillian said cheerfully.

Victoria smiled. "That won't do. Mr. Graves helped us out of goodwill—it wasn't an obligation. We must show our appreciation."

Alistair added, "Lillian, we took you in as our goddaughter because we care for you. We never expected your brother to repay us. Even now that he's returned, you'll always be like a daughter to us."

Lillian nodded firmly. "Of course!"

Alistair turned to Rosalind. "What are you waiting for? Go ahead and call Mr. Graves!"

He urged her on.

Rosalind pulled out her phone. "Alright, I'll call him."

"Go on."

She stepped aside and dialed Lucian's number.

The call connected after a single ring. Lucian's deep, velvety voice came through. "What is it?"

His tone was teasing, warm—like a whisper right beside her ear.

Rosalind noticed how, over the years, his voice had grown richer, more magnetic—the kind that could make any woman's pulse quicken.

"Mr. Graves, the company issues are resolved, and my parents want to thank you. Are you free? They'd like to invite you to dinner."

Lucian chuckled softly. "They're too kind. I only did what was right."

"They insist."

"Will you be there too?" he asked.

Rosalind's heart stuttered. What was he implying?

"Of course. We all want to thank you."

His voice turned playful. "You sound so formal."

Rosalind laughed lightly. "Then what should I say? But if you're busy, it's fine—"

"I'm free. How about tonight?"

"Perfect. I'll let my parents know."

"Good," he replied. "Anything else you want to say?"

Her breath hitched. "Like what?"

"You haven't forgotten our agreement, have you?"

Heat rushed to Rosalind's cheeks. "I haven't! It's just... not the best timing right now."

"That's fine. I can wait."

"Alright. I'll hang up now."

"Mm."

She ended the call, clutching her phone as her heart raced. Three years apart, and yet Lucian could still make her feel like a flustered schoolgirl.