Chapter 500

Julien ate even more plainly—no drinks, no raw food, and he had even given up smoking because Helen disliked the smell. "You live such a bland life. It's not exciting," Helen teased. "Saving room for later tonight," Julien replied, his tone suggestive. Helen instantly caught on, understanding what he meant. She felt as though she had just dug her own grave. After dinner, Julien drove Helen to see the riverside night view in Aurich. The place was bustling, the cool breeze dissipating the lingering heat of summer. The scene brought back memories for Julien—fragments of things long past. Helen pulled out her phone to take pictures with Julien. He cooperated fully, snapping several selfies together, including one where she leaned over and kissed his cheek. Afterward, Helen asked, "Do you want me to send these to you?" Julien shook his head lightly. "No need, you can keep them." Her mood shifted subtly, but she held back her thoughts and said nothing more. The next morning, after