Chapter 256

Anna was the kind of girl who wore her heart on her sleeve—anything that made her happy would light up her whole face instantly, not a single bit of emotion hidden. After sulking for over a month, she and Julian were finally back on good terms. On the way down the mountain, she beamed like the sun, chattering nonstop as he held her hand tightly, like she was determined to spill every single thought she'd bottled up during their weeks apart. Though it was mostly just random, mundane stuff, Julian listened to her intently. His sharp, handsome face didn't show even a trace of impatience. Anna kept talking until her throat went dry. Just as she paused to catch her breath, a bottle of water appeared right in front of her—like magic. Wow. Perfect timing. She took a big gulp, licked her lips, and with a mischievous glint in her eyes, switched into troublemaker mode. "Hey! You weirdo, it's New Year's and you didn't even think to give me a red envelope or something?" She clearly just wanted to