After dinner, Milo and Karl were in the kitchen, washing the dishes together, bickering over who was doing a better job. Adrian was busy with something else.
Meanwhile, Julian silently stood up, making his way toward his room.
Ruby's eyes followed his retreating figure.
This was her chance.
She took a deep breath and called out, "Julian..."
He halted for a second, but before he could continue walking, she reached out and caught his wrist.
Julian stiffened.
"Hmm," he replied dryly, his tone devoid of warmth as he immediately tried to pull his hand free, as if her touch was disgusting.
Ruby's grip tightened slightly, her hesitation clear. "You… what happened to you?"
Julian let out a short, bitter laugh, his jaw clenching. "You're really asking me that? After everything you've done?"
His voice was sharp, like a blade cutting through the air.
Ruby frowned. "What do you mean?"