Chapter 5

Julian hadn't gone out?!

I was scared out of my wits, almost jumping as I spun around, my cheeks burning with the guilt of being caught red-handed.

Caleb, however, remained composed, turning to face Julian who was coming down the stairs, his tone flat: “Just passing by, thought I’d drop in and see you. Anya and I were just chatting by the door.”

As Caleb spoke, his gaze lingered on me, subtly.

My back instantly stiffened.

Julian didn’t seem to notice anything amiss. As he descended, he casually remarked, “What’s there to chat about with her? She just idles around the house all day.”

Normally, hearing him say that would upset me for ages.

But now, my mind was only filled with panic, terrified Caleb would say something shocking.

Caleb didn’t respond, just watched me, a fleeting, almost imperceptible smirk playing on his lips.

Julian finished tying his shoes and walked over, naturally putting his arm around my waist. He told Caleb, “My brother’s back from overseas. Since you’re here, why don’t we all have dinner tonight? I’ll call Ryder and the others.”

My body stiffened, the spot where Julian touched me suddenly burning. He rarely made affectionate gestures towards me in front of others, but today he…

Caleb’s gaze rested on Julian’s hand on my waist for a split second, then moved away. He simply replied, “Sounds good.”

The dinner reservation was at an incredibly exclusive, members-only restaurant.