Chapter 867
Rosalind's radiant smile and those sparkling eyes made Lucian feel like he would believe anything she said, even if it were a lie.
He closed the distance between them and captured her lips in a kiss.
Rosalind wound her arms around his neck, returning the kiss with equal fervor.
When they finally pulled apart, her heart-shaped face was flushed. She gazed up at him, breathless. "I should head back to my studio. I have a new collection to finish today."
Lucian knew she had become a sought-after fashion designer. His thumb brushed her cheek. "Stay. Work here in my office."
He didn’t want to let her out of his sight.
It felt like they were reliving their honeymoon phase, and honestly, she didn’t mind his possessiveness.
She hesitated. "But—"
Lucian didn’t give her a chance to refuse. He stepped out of the car, rounded to her side, and opened the door. Without warning, he bent down and scooped her into his arms.
Cradling her bridal-style, he strode straight into the building.
Rosalind gasped, her lashes fluttering. "Lucian! This is your company! People are staring—put me down!"
"Not happening," he said, tightening his hold.
As they entered the lobby, every head turned.
"Mr. Graves!" someone exclaimed, standing abruptly.
Employees gaped, some stifling excited whispers. Their CEO was carrying a woman through the office like it was the most natural thing in the world.
"Oh my god! Who is she? He’s carrying her like she’s royalty!"
"He’s not even trying to be subtle. This is a full-blown public declaration!"
"I can’t—this is too adorable. They’re perfect!"
Rosalind buried her face against his chest, mortified. She clung to him, wishing she could disappear.
"Mr. Graves!"
More voices called out.
"Mrs. Graves!" someone shouted.
Others quickly followed suit, addressing her as Mrs. Graves.
A shy smile curved her lips. There was nothing more intoxicating than being someone’s undeniable favorite. Her heart swelled.
Lucian carried her into his office and set her down gently.
"Eat," he said, gesturing to the lavish spread on the table.
Rosalind blinked. "You had all this prepared?"
He nodded. "Unless you’re not hungry. You did just have lunch with Julian."
She muttered under her breath, "So petty…"
Then, louder, she declared, "I swear I didn’t eat a single bite with him!"
Lucian smirked. "Good."
He picked up a shrimp and held it to her lips. "Open."
She arched a brow. "I can feed myself, you know."
"I want to do it," he countered. "Julian tried to feed you at that restaurant, didn’t he?"
She groaned inwardly. Seriously?
Still, she obliged, taking the bite. "Mmm. Delicious."
Lucian’s smile deepened.
Rosalind then picked up another shrimp and offered it to him. "Your turn. Open wide."
He raised an eyebrow.
She grinned. "I didn’t feed Julian. Only you."
That simple declaration sent a rush of satisfaction through him. His sharp features softened as he accepted the offering.
"Julian doesn’t matter," she murmured. "No one compares to you. You’re everything to me."
Lucian’s gaze warmed. He knew she was placating him—and it worked. He loved when she made him feel like the only man in her world.