Chapter 488

A husband taking pride in his wife is only natural.

......

With the book signing successfully concluded, Victoria Langley finally had time to fulfill her promise. She asked Evelyn to arrange a dinner to thank Julian Roscente.

The restaurant chosen was the seafood fine dining establishment atop SKP Mall.

With limited daily seating and prices equivalent to half a month's salary for the average person, Evelyn had to reserve three days in advance.

Victoria's reasoning was simple: sincerity should be expressed in the most tangible way.

And indeed—

Julian's eyebrows lifted slightly upon hearing the restaurant's name before settling into understanding.

A proper thank-you deserved an equally proper setting.

Friday evening.

Julian arrived ten minutes early, only to find the Langley family already waiting in the private room.

Sophia Laurent had also been invited, but she was buried in a project, having pulled two all-nighters in a row.

Evelyn pressed, "You're really not coming? Julian will be there."

Sophia scoffed, "Since when does his presence dictate my plans?"

"You're dating, aren't you? Perfect chance for him to drive you home."

"Cut the act! You know exactly what our 'relationship' is—fake!"

Inside the private room—

Julian demurred, "You're too kind, Mr. and Mrs. Langley. It was nothing, really."

"Nonsense," William Langley shook his hand firmly. "Thanks to your introduction to editor Simon Croix, Seven-Day Tales was published without a hitch."

Victoria nodded in agreement, smiling.

The couple appeared younger than expected.

William carried himself with scholarly grace, tall and poised. Victoria, in a moon-white qipao with her hair elegantly coiled, stood beside her husband like a painting come to life.

As they took their seats, course after exquisite course arrived.

William brought out a prized vintage liquor, filling Julian's glass first—

"Kindness should be repaid tenfold. Bottoms up."

"Please, don't stand on ceremony," Julian quickly raised his own glass. "Just call me Julian."

"Then I won't hold back, son." William laughed heartily.

Three rounds of drinks later, Julian found himself in an unusually relaxed dinner.

William quoted classics effortlessly but never pressured anyone to drink, only suggesting moderation enhanced the mood.

Julian listened, captivated. Having struggled with certain subjects since childhood, he'd always held deep respect for the erudite.

As the evening wound down, Julian reached for his car keys.

Evelyn waved her phone. "Already called a ride. It'll be here any minute."

Watching the Langley family's car disappear into the night, Julian exhaled softly—

"With in-laws like these, what more could anyone ask for?"