Rosalie had known her mother would not agree to come.

“Your health regimen seems pretty effective. Once I retire, I’ll follow it too.”

Mrs. Lafayette waved her off. “You’re still young. Retirement is decades away for you. Focus on your work for now.”

By the time her children reached retirement age, she might not even be around anymore. It was a somber topic she preferred to avoid.

The mother and daughter made their way downstairs together.

Christian had been chatting with Mr. Lafayette for