Chapter 204

Anna bit her lip, held onto Julian's hand, and caught up to him. As they walked side by side, the waves left little ripples behind them, and soft grains of sand slipped beneath their feet—like the whole world had melted away, leaving just the two of them. "Julian..." She'd been mentally repeating his name for ages, but now it finally slipped out for real, hesitantly, like it was made of glass. When he turned his head slightly, she flashed a bright smile, high ponytail swinging as she looked up at him and said seriously, "I once heard someone say that scars are a man's medals. I'm really thankful I met someone as unique as you." Her eyes lit up like crescents, and her long lashes trembled slightly. She still had a soft baby face, giving everything she said a hint of childishness, but in that moment, those smiling almond eyes were firm and steady. Julian felt something stir inside him as he met her eyes. "Anna." He paused, then suddenly stopped walking. Bending down a little, he placed b