Chapter 252

"Anna dumped him?" Julian's gaze shifted between the two women.

Anna Ross lowered her eyes, silent.

Her fingers unconsciously traced the rim of her glass.

Mia Lawrence set down her fork and knife. "They were together in college. Completely inseparable."

She glanced at her friend, her voice softening. "But then Anna suddenly ended it."

Anna forced a faint smile. "That's all in the past now."

Her fingers trembled slightly. "I... don't have the right to talk about any of that now."

Her mother was still in Howard Lowell's clutches.

She had long lost the freedom to choose.

Besides.

If he knew the truth, he would only despise her more.

It was better to leave completely.

To never see each other again.

"Are you in some kind of trouble lately?" Julian studied her intently. "Working all day, performing at the bar all night."

Mia opened her mouth to speak.

A sharp look from Anna stopped her.

"I just enjoy singing." Anna lifted her face, a light smile playing on her lips. "You know I've always dreamed of being on stage."

Mia sighed quietly.

Forced by circumstances.

Yet pretending everything was fine.

Julian's gaze softened. "You can come to me anytime you need help."

His voice was gentle. "Don't always try to bear everything alone."

Anna nodded slightly.

A warmth spread through her heart.

Mia suddenly raised her glass. "Julian, a toast to you!"

She drained her glass, eyes sparkling.

Julian smiled and finished his drink.

His tear mole looked particularly captivating under the light.

"Someone as wonderful as you..." Mia leaned closer. "...must have a girlfriend by now?"

Anna's movements stilled.

A hand gently squeezed hers under the table.

Julian set down his glass.

After a moment of silence, he suddenly laughed. "Still single, actually."