Julian’s gaze immediately fixed on the open bookshelf and the watch in Claire’s hand. There was no explosion of anger. His face remained calm, but his eyes radiated a dominant aura.
"The gym downstairs is being renovated, so I returned early," Julian said, his low voice echoing through the room.
Claire swallowed hard. She felt like a thief caught red handed in the middle of a heist. "Julian, I... I can explain."
Julian stepped inside, closing the door behind him without breaking eye contact. He walked toward her with slow, deliberate steps. Every stride made Claire feel smaller. He stopped directly in front of her, leaving only a single step of distance between them.
"Are you looking for an extra dowry, my wife?" Julian asked in a low tone that carried a hint of both mockery and flirta
