Chapter 852

"Of course, Mr. Graves," Nathaniel responded smoothly.

Lillian turned to Lucian with a knowing smile. "I'll take the front seat. You and Rosalind can sit in the back."

She slipped into the passenger seat before either could protest, clearly giving the couple privacy.

Rosalind saw right through the gesture. Just then, Lucian opened the rear door with effortless grace. "After you."

She slid in, pulse quickening as he followed, shutting the door with a quiet click. The luxury sedan purred to life, gliding through the city streets.

Lillian glanced back. "Heading to the office or home?"

"Office," Lucian answered, his gaze lingering on Rosalind. "You two going straight back?"

Lillian arched a brow at her friend. "Well? Home?"

Rosalind felt the weight of Lucian's stare. "Y-yes. Home."

The driver took a sudden sharp turn. Rosalind gasped as momentum threw her sideways—

A strong arm banded around her waist, pulling her flush against a hard chest. Lucian had caught her effortlessly.

Her breath hitched as she met his smoldering gaze. The world narrowed to the rapid thud of her heartbeat.

The car steadied. She scrambled upright, skin burning where they'd touched.

The moment they separated, the air between them cooled.

Then Lucian spoke. "Nathaniel, didn't you mention needing to stop somewhere?"

A beat of confusion. "I don't recall—"

Nathaniel caught Lucian's pointed look in the mirror and instantly corrected course. "Ah! Right, the pharmacy. There's one just ahead."

The car pulled over. Nathaniel stepped out.

Lillian was already opening her door. "I need a few things too. I'll join you."

Rosalind lunged forward. "Wait, I'm coming—ah!"

An iron grip yanked her back. She tumbled into Lucian's lap with a startled yelp.

"Mr. Graves! Let me—"

His low chuckle vibrated through her. "They're running errands. Why the rush?"

"I need—"

"Liar." He tilted her chin up, eyes dark with amusement. "You've been avoiding me all day."

"I haven't!"

"Every time I get close, you find an excuse to leave." His thumb traced her jawline. City lights danced across her delicate features, and something possessive stirred in his chest.

"Stay with me tonight."

Rosalind froze. "W-what?"

"Come to my office. It's time you honored our agreement."

She braced against his chest. "I can't just—mmph!"

His lips crashed onto hers in a searing kiss—deep, demanding, leaving her dizzy. His signature sandalwood scent enveloped her, turning her bones to liquid.

When they finally broke apart, his voice was rough with promise.

"You're not going anywhere."