Chapter 82

Julian studied Alexander for a moment before accepting the crystal glass with a nod of thanks.

Their glasses clinked softly as they began conversing between sips of aged whiskey.

Oliver observed them quietly from his seat.

After several minutes, Alexander gave Julian a meaningful look.

Julian arched an eyebrow in silent question.

Oliver cut in first. "You're not yourself today."

Alexander chuckled lowly, clearly agreeing with the assessment.

Julian's voice remained even. "Am I?"

Oliver smirked. "Aren't you?"

Julian took a measured sip without responding.

Their conversation was interrupted by an approaching guest exchanging pleasantries.

When they were alone again, Julian checked his watch. Concerned Lily might be hungry, he started toward her just as she returned with Sophia.

"Uncle Julian, can I have that pink macaron?" Lily pointed eagerly at the dessert display.

Given Lily's food sensitivities, Julian shook his head. "Wait here. I'll check the ingredients first."

Lily nodded obediently.

Sophia, accustomed to independence, helped herself to the buffet. She even offered Alexander a plate. "Father, would you like some?"

Alexander ruffled her hair affectionately. "I'm fine, darling."

The girls settled nearby with their treats. Victoria joined them, sharing a chocolate truffle with Sophia.

"Thank you, Victoria!" Sophia beamed.

Lily studied Victoria curiously before whispering to Sophia. "Is she your mother?"

The question created an instant tension in the air.

Sophia blinked before shaking her head. "No."

Lily pressed gently, "So...you don't have a mother either?"

"I do," Sophia clarified. "She's just not here."

Later, when staff distributed souvenir keychains, Lily immediately claimed two crystal ones - the last remaining.

Sophia's eyes lingered on them. "Could I have one? I'd like to give it to Victoria."

Lily hesitated. "I want to give one to my friend too."

Thinking of Isabella, Lily continued excitedly, "Today Uncle Julian and my friend took me kite flying. We fished and rode bicycles too. She's so pretty - she'll love this crystal!"

The adults had been only half-listening until now. At Lily's words, Victoria, Oliver and Alexander all turned sharply toward Julian.

Oliver recovered first, grinning. "Well well, Julian. Keeping secrets?" He leaned forward. "How long has this been going on? Alexander, did you know about this?"

Alexander simply sipped his drink, watching Julian expectantly.

Julian remained impassive. "We happened to meet."

Oliver snorted. "At lunch too, apparently? No wonder you handled Lily so easily today - you had help!"

Julian's silence spoke volumes.

Alexander studied him before stating simply, "You like her."

Julian froze, his lips parting slightly before closing again without denial.

Victoria's smile faltered momentarily.

Oliver's jaw dropped. "Wait - seriously?" His teasing had uncovered actual feelings. "Who is she? Do we know her? Why haven't we met her yet?"