Chapter 159

Julian showed up in a casual outfit today, looking sharp and gentle—exactly the kind of guy parents would adore. Lucy's gaze flicked between her daughter and Julian, with a knowing smirk on her face. "Mom, come on, don't overthink it. I just happened to bump into Julian." Anna noticed things might take a wrong turn and quickly jumped in to explain, even giving Julian a look—like, seriously, help me out here? "Mm-hmm, I got it," Lucy nodded, but her tone clearly screamed: I so don't believe you. Anna just stood there, speechless—seriously, was this really her mom? But weirdly, that tiny little moment totally lifted her previously tense mood. Lucy also didn't bring up her fainting episode again. The banter flowed easily between mother and daughter, with Julian occasionally chiming in. The whole room was filled with laughter. Meanwhile, Anna's uncle and Jessica got completely left out. Anyone else would've sensed the awkward vibes and left, but not Jessica—she just glued herself to the co