Chapter 2

I pulled my hand away with a cold laugh.

“I’m very happy with my life, Stella. It’s time for you to face reality.”

With that, I turned and left that emotionally barren house. I don’t know what Stella’s mood was behind me, but I knew it wouldn’t be good.

But I also knew that Stella, with her stubborn and capricious nature, wouldn’t give up easily.

I dragged my exhausted body back to the Sterling mansion.

These past few days, I had been swamped with a project, almost always working late into the night.

I walked in, rubbing my temples.

An hour earlier, I had received a SnapChat from my parents saying my sister had returned.

At the time, my body had frozen.

I had always known Stella would come back, but when the day finally arrived, I was still momentarily stunned.

I hung my bag on the coat rack and looked down to see a pair of men’s shoes on the floor.

I paused for a second, then instantly put on a polite smile.

“You’re back?” a gentle voice asked.

I turned to see Julian in a simple black silk pajama set. Even in casual wear, his broad shoulders and narrow waist, tall physique, and handsome face were evident. His gentle eyes peered from behind gold-rimmed glasses.

He frowned slightly, looking at me with concern.

“Why are you so tired? Haven’t you been resting well these past few days?”

I smiled. “Work’s been crazy. Did you and Leo have fun these past few days? How is he?”

Julian stepped forward and gently pulled me into his arms.

His chin rested on my shoulder, his warm breath fanned my neck, and his long, slender fingers gently stroked my back. He whispered:

“Leo had a great time, he’s already asleep from exhaustion. The only regret was that you weren’t there. Next time, the three of us will go together.”

“I missed you,” he murmured, his voice laced with an intimate undertone.

I felt the warmth of his chest, but my heart remained chillingly cold.

I felt something soft press against the back of my neck. My body stiffened, my mind replaying Stella’s words from earlier today.

I didn’t respond to him like I used to.

I subtly pushed against him, creating a small distance between us.

“I…”

My words trailed off, because I distinctly felt Julian’s body stiffen for a moment.

I keenly sensed his displeasure.