Chapter 474

Before Helen could react, Julien captured her lips in a forceful kiss, his hand gripping her chin firmly. The kiss was intense, almost ruthless. When he finally pulled back, his thumb traced her flushed lips as he asked, "Let me ask you one last time, Helen—are you sure about this?" Helen felt like she had lost her mind. Everything was spiraling out of control. She nodded emphatically. "Even if you don't want me, I won't cling to you." She knew that by giving him the choice, she was handing over all the power—the fate of their relationship was entirely in his hands. However, she didn't regret it as she truly liked him. Julien sighed softly, as though resigned. She was more straightforward than he was, and while he was no longer young, she brought a vitality and determination that he lacked. Her courage to throw herself in completely, with no reservations, stirred something deep within him. If she was willing, he wouldn't stop. Julien kissed her again, starting at her lips and tr