Chapter 36

Edward’s son-in-law, Julian, was no ordinary man; he was not easily intimidated or controlled. Julian’s status as CEO of Galloway Group and heir to the Galloway family far overshadowed Edward, a coward who had achieved success through his wife's family.

Edward’s smile faltered, his stiff lips unable to hide his tension. His attempts to assert himself were futile against Julian’s unwavering presence. Even Rosalie hadn't anticipated Julian's pointed intervention. She watched his serious expression, feeling a confusing swirl of emotions.

The maid, Hollie, broke the silence. "Mr. and Mrs. Graham, Mr. and Mrs. Galloway, dinner is served." The warning delivered, Julian didn't press the matter. He hadn't realized the simmering anger within him, a raw surge that surfaced when he warned Edward. This anger had flared when he arrived and saw Edward raise his hand to slap Rosalie. Julian had felt the impulse to act; had the slap landed, he might have overturned Graham Villa.

"I'll go wash my hands first," Rosalie murmured, escaping to the bathroom. She needed distance from the whirlwind of emotions Julian had stirred.

In the bathroom, she stared at her reflection. Her delicate features belied her turmoil. Watching Julian fiercely defend her against the Grahams had cracked something inside her. Beneath her calm exterior, confusion and disbelief crashed. She'd come to Graham Villa intending to provoke Claudia and Helena, armed with wit and resolve, prepared to fight alone. She never expected an ally, much less Julian—the man who, even after a year of marriage, had shown her little attention, the man who had once wished for her death in a past life. And just days ago, he'd given her a divorce agreement.

She stared at her reflection, lost in thought until her legs grew numb. Snapping back to reality, she left the bathroom, her mind still grappling with her complex emotions.