Chapter 488: A Husband Taking Pride in His Wife Is Only Natural

A husband taking pride in his wife is only natural.

* * *

With the book signing successfully concluded, Helen Whitmore finally had time to fulfill her promise. She asked Clara to arrange a dinner to thank Julian Cross.

The restaurant chosen was the seafood fine dining establishment atop Copley Galleria.

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

Helen'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 Whitmore family already waiting in the private room.

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

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

Sloane 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. Whitmore. It was nothing, really."

"Nonsense," Daniel Whitmore shook his hand firmly. "Thanks to your introduction to editor Spencer Hale, Seven-Day Tales was published without a hitch."

Helen nodded in agreement, smiling.

The couple appeared younger than expected.

Daniel carried himself with scholarly grace, tall and poised. Helen, 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.

Daniel 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." Daniel laughed heartily.

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

Daniel 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.

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

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

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