Chapter 197

Julian Garnache looked up and saw Chloe Valentine.

His movements paused slightly.

He set down his fork and knife.

A faint, almost imperceptible smile touched his lips.

"Miss Valentine, what a coincidence."

Anna Ross's gaze shifted between the two of them.

She gently placed her cup down.

"Do you know each other?"

Chloe's face instantly turned pale.

Her fingers unconsciously tightened on the hem of her dress.

"Long time no see."

She forced a smile.

"Please, continue your meal. I should go."

Without waiting for a response, she turned and hurried away.

Her retreating figure was clearly flustered.

Anna looked at Julian.

"Have you met before?"

She noticed Chloe's unusual reaction.

Julian calmly picked up some food with his utensils.

"We crossed paths a few times abroad."

He gave a light smile.

"I didn't expect to run into her here."

Anna nodded thoughtfully.

She couldn't shake the feeling that Chloe's reaction was off.

Chloe rushed into the restroom.

Icy water ran over her wrists.

The mirror reflected a panicked face.

She gripped the edge of the sink tightly.

Her knuckles turned white from the pressure.

Why was he back?

And with Anna Ross?

If he talked about those things...

Her engagement to Adrian Sinclair would be over.

She had to avoid him.

She absolutely couldn't let him have a chance to speak.

She carefully took a detour back to her seat.

Her eyes scanned the area warily.

She only relaxed slightly after confirming it was safe.

Adrian looked up at her.

"Are you feeling unwell?"

He noticed her unusual behavior.

Chloe shook her head hurriedly.

"It's nothing. I just remembered some unfinished work."

She offered a strained smile.

"Could we leave early?"

Adrian set down his napkin.

"Let's go."

He stood and picked up his jacket.

Chloe immediately followed.

She kept her head down deliberately.

Her steps were so hurried they were almost a jog.