Chapter 174 Something was terribly Wrong (1)

She forced a small smile, trying to ease the tension. "Um… you don't need to thank me, Julian."

Her voice was gentle, warm.

"I should be the one thanking you. You always prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner for everyone without asking for anything in return."

She looked at him with genuine warmth, hoping to reach him.

Hoping he'd look at her the way he always did.

But instead Julian's eyes darkened.

A hint of bitterness appeared in his expression, something unfamiliar...

"That's why," he said, his voice sharp. "I don't get anything in return."

Ruby's smile faded.

Her brows knitted in confusion.

Something about the way he said it, the meaning behind his words, felt too serious, too bitter.

Her stomach twisted uneasily.

"What are you saying, Julian?" she asked, her voice firm but confused. "What's wrong with you?"

She didn't care about the coldness in his voice now.

She felt it.