Julia thought she was already late, but Eric was not home yet. When he finally came back and saw her sitting on the sofa, his jaw dropped to the floor.

Although Fiona informed him last night that she would invite Julia over for dinner, he thought his friend would definitely refuse. But Julia was there in the flesh, dressed in a floral, knee-length skirt dress that complemented her fair skin.

He hurriedly planted himself next to her with a confused expression. "Why are you here, Julia?" he asked.

Julia smiled bitterly, but she never responded to his question.

Reading the expression on Julia's face, Eric realized that Lilia must have had a hand in this. He was aware that Julia would not be willing to show up here for Fiona's sake, so she must have done so out of respect for his mother.

"I'm so sorry to trouble you again," mumbled Eric, looking at Julia with embarrassment.

"It's ok," Julia replied lighthearte

he house, she let go of her grip and glared at Julia. Finally, she dropped the mask.

"Get in the car," Fiona barked.

"No, thanks." Julia met her eyes with the same level of coldness. "Anyway, it's clear to me that you're just forcing yourself. Why?"

"You're smart, I'll give you that,"

Fiona sneered. "Tonight was just a show so Eric would witness my apology to you. I will say this clearly; I did this for his sake, not for you.

Also, Julia, I'm warning you, you'd better stay away from Eric from now on, or I won't be too kind. Let me tell you. No one can take him away from me!"

"Don't worry." Julia appeared as calm as a lake. "I have no romantic interest in Eric.

I'm not interested in how things will develop between you and Eric. I'll even be grateful that you don't get me involved in the future."

Looking at the starless sky, she added, "It's late. I should go back. I wish you happiness in advance."