Chapter 955

Lucian Graves glanced over his shoulder at Rosalind Fairchild. "Can you handle a car?"

Rosalind gave a confident nod. "Absolutely."

She'd been preparing to marry into high society for years - driving was among the first skills she'd mastered. There was no question about her ability.

Lucian tossed the keys her way with a careless flick of his wrist. "You're driving then."

A pleased smile curved Rosalind's lips. "With pleasure."

Harrison stepped out just in time to see Lucian and Rosalind settling into the sleek black Bentley. Rosalind took the driver's seat while Lucian, who'd been drinking all evening, lounged in the passenger side.

The engine roared to life. With a smooth press of the accelerator, Rosalind pulled away from the curb, the luxury vehicle gliding down the street like a panther stalking through the night.

They disappeared together into the darkness.

Harrison remained rooted to the spot, watching until the taillights vanished around the distant corner. Her eyes burned, though whether from exhaustion or emotion, she couldn't say.

"Still staring?" Julian Blackwood's voice cut through her thoughts as he emerged from the building. "They're gone, darling."

Harrison snapped back to reality with a sharp inhale. "That's hardly your concern."

Isabella appeared at her elbow. "Let's head home."

Harrison nodded stiffly. "Yes, let's."

As they walked away together, Julian watched Harrison's retreating figure with a calculating smile that promised trouble.

Thirty minutes later, Harrison entered the gated estate Lucian had arranged for her pregnancy stay. A uniformed maid greeted her at the door with a respectful curtsy. "Welcome home, Ms. Fairchild."

Lucian had spared no expense - the residence came fully staffed with a personal chef, two maids, a live-in nurse, and a nutritionist. Every possible comfort had been provided.

"I've prepared bone broth for you," the maid offered. "Shall I bring some to your room?"

Harrison shook her head. "Not now. I need a bath first."

The maid hurried to prepare the marble ensuite bathroom while Harrison peeled off her evening wear. Sinking into the steaming water, she felt some of the evening's tension ease from her muscles - though her mind remained preoccupied with images of Lucian and Isabella. What were they doing right now? Where had they gone together?

Mindful of her condition, Harrison didn't linger. As she rose from the bath and reached for a towel, she realized with a start that she'd forgotten to bring sleepwear.

The events of the evening had clearly rattled her more than she cared to admit.

Not wanting to summon the maid, Harrison wrapped herself in a plush towel and stepped cautiously into the bedroom - only to freeze at the sound of the maid's voice from downstairs. "Good evening, Mr. Graves."

Her breath caught. Lucian was here?

The bedroom door swung open before she could react.

Harrison whirled to find Lucian filling the doorway, his tall frame silhouetted against the hall light. He'd actually returned.

Their eyes locked, and Harrison's mind went utterly blank.

Lucian seemed equally stunned. His gaze traveled over her with deliberate slowness, taking in every exposed curve.

Realization struck like lightning. Harrison gasped, clutching the towel tighter. She'd been completely uncovered when he walked in - he'd seen everything.

"My apologies," Lucian murmured, his voice rougher than usual. The door clicked shut behind him.

Harrison scrambled into silk pajamas with shaking hands. Her cheeks burned as if scalded. Of all the moments for Lucian to return - and to see her like that...

Outside, she heard the maid's puzzled voice. "Mr. Graves? Aren't you coming downstairs?"

Then - three sharp raps on the bedroom door. Lucian was knocking.