Chapter 190

"Valerie, I'm gonna be real with you—don't stir up trouble. She's out of your league." Julian meant it as a warning, but to Valerie, it sounded like mockery. Her fists tightened at her sides. Why should Elizabeth always be in the spotlight while all her years of hard work barely count for anything? "Oh? Julian, don't tell me you've got a thing for Elizabeth too? That's kind of sad—she's only got eyes for Alexander anyway." She thought that would rile him up, maybe make him resent Elizabeth a little. But Julian just burst out laughing. "Seriously, Valerie? You sound like someone throwing shade just 'cause they can't get the same fruit. Why can't I just appreciate her as a friend? She's interesting, that's all. You, on the other hand, should really focus more on fixing whatever's going on with you." He shook his head and strode off, clearly disappointed. He had given Valerie too much credit—thought she might be different from the typical spoiled heiress. Turns out, same old pride, same o