Chapter 48
Julian scoffed. “You know, there’s a perfect name for this little game of yours—playing hard to get.” His deep-set features, always cold and unreadable, carried a sharp edge of mockery. The words pricked at Rosalie, awakening a familiar ache that crept through her chest like a thousand tiny needles. But no matter how blatant his ridicule, she remained impassive, her expression smooth, not a flicker of embarrassment or anger visible.
Julian’s eyes darkened, growing even colder, a storm brewing beneath their surface. Rosalie, unfazed, casually brushed a loose strand of hair from her forehead. Then, without warning, she aimed a swift, ruthless kick at the softest part of his knee.
Caught off guard, Julian instinctively grabbed her arm to steady himself. His grip was firm, but his brows furrowed as he met her gaze—a gaze laced with amusement and just the right amount of icy provocation. Rosalie let out a cold chuckle. “See that? When faced with danger, people instinctively reach for whatever—or whoever—is closest. Mr. Galloway, aren’t you the same?”
Her eyes flickered toward his hand, still gripping her arm. Her smirk deepened, the mockery in her gaze unmistakable. “Tell me, would this count as you throwing yourself into my arms?”
Julian had been married to Rosalie for a year, and the Rosalie he knew was always gentle and considerate. This was the first time he had seen her so difficult. She hadn’t hesitated before kicking him, as if shattering his leg wouldn't have fazed her. Julian studied the faint, playful curve of her lips. A glint of something dangerous flickered in his gaze, a quiet, simmering warning lurking beneath the surface.
Just when Rosalie thought Julian’s provocation would make him release her, his grip tightened. With a forceful tug, she was pulled forward—straight into his embrace. Her face darkened instantly. This was the first time tonight that Julian had seen her expression change. His broad palm pressed against the back of her head, holding her firmly, refusing to let her pull away. Rosalie’s eyes flared with fury as she glared up at him.