Chapter 417

In the afternoon, Shelmaine bought some fruits and gifts to visit Julien. Samuel insisted on coming along but finally relented after a firm talk from Shelmaine. However, his eyes were filled with reluctance as he kept staring at her like a forlorn puppy. Shelmaine reassured him repeatedly, "There's nothing between Julien and me, and there never will be." Julien had finally been discharged from the hospital, and she didn't want to complicate his life any further. Samuel, sensing her determination, held back his jealousy despite his lingering displeasure. He agreed to let her go alone, choosing to bear it for her sake. He drove her to Julien's house and parked nearby. Before getting out, Shelmaine reminded him sternly, "I'll be quick. Don't follow me. We agreed—no backing out." Though unwilling, Samuel nodded, resigning himself to wait in the car. Shelmaine had arranged the visit in advance, so Julien opened the door promptly. He welcomed her inside warmly, but the atmosphere felt different this time—stiff, uneasy. "Where are your parents?" Shelmaine asked, setting down the fruits and gifts. "They went out. It's just me," Julien replied, pouring her some tea. "How's your health?" "Not bad. Resting at home for now. What about you?" "I'm okay too. Do you remember my studio? My assistant Beatrix has been doing an amazing job. The business is thriving." "I've heard. Beatrix is truly capable." "Yeah… she's been impressive." Their conversation hit a lull, falling into an awkward silence. Shelmaine fiddled with her fingers, unsure what else to say. Eventually, she stood to leave. "I shouldn't stay too long. I'll come by another—" "Shelly," Julien interrupted, his voice heavy. "Huh?" Shelmaine froze, meeting his gaze. Her heart clenched under the intensity of his stare. A wave of unease washed over her. "What is it?" "Shelly, do I still have a chance?" Stunned, Shelmaine opened her mouth, but no words came out. She stood rooted, caught off guard. Julien continued, his expression earnest. "I know this might not be the right time to say it, but I can't hold it in any longer. I'm sorry, I don't mean to pressure you. I just want you to know that if you're ever tired or need someone, I'll always be here for you." She was speechless and left his house with a heavy heart. She exhaled deeply, trying to dispel the tension constricting her chest. Julien's words echoed in her mind, their weight undeniable. How could she? How dare she? All she could do was urge Julien to move forward, to forget her, and to stop wasting his time. If there was one person she felt she owed the most in her life, it was Julien. He was the one she had wronged the most. As she approached Samuel's car, he was already hurrying toward her, his anxious demeanor betraying how long he had been waiting. His eyes scanned her as he smiled nervously. "Done talking? Ready to head home?" "Home?" she echoed absentmindedly, her thoughts still lingering on Julien.