Chapter 479

The doubt in Julian's eyes deepened. His gaze lingered on Vivian for a heartbeat too long before he schooled his expression into perfect neutrality. With the practiced ease of a man who had spent years concealing his vulnerabilities, he said, "You should catch up with your classmates. I have a business meeting to attend."

As Julian walked away, Giselle's glare burned into Vivian's back. Her fingers twisted the fabric of her dress so tightly her knuckles turned bone-white.

She had always despised Vivian. Even back in their school days, Vivian had effortlessly drawn everything Giselle coveted but could never grasp.

Teachers favored her. Classmates admired her. Even the lunch ladies slipped her extra portions, as if she deserved more than anyone else.

How could someone like Vivian—unwanted in her own home—be so adored by the world? It's that face of hers, Giselle seethed. People are shallow. They only see beauty. But Julian? He wasn’t like that.

He wasn’t the kind of man to be swayed by something as trivial as looks. No, Vivian must have tricked him somehow.

The thought festered in Giselle’s mind.

Vivian had seduced him.

And Julian—he was still entertaining her, even knowing she was married.

If Vivian could have him despite being tied to another man, why couldn’t Giselle, who was free and unclaimed? She wasn’t that timid girl anymore.

She had traveled the world, tasted luxury, and carried herself with a confidence she’d never possessed before.

With renewed determination, she inhaled sharply and called out, "Julian—wait!"

He paused, turning to glance at her over his shoulder.

His expression was polite but detached, his confusion evident.

Giselle fumbled with her clutch, pulling out her phone. "Since fate brought us back together, why don’t we exchange numbers? It’d be nice to stay in touch."

Julian’s face remained unreadable. "I think you’re mistaken. We weren’t close before. There’s no reason to be now."

Vivian, who had been watching silently, arched a brow. "How bold of you," she remarked lightly. "Adding men to your contacts so casually. Doesn’t your fiancé mind?"

Giselle’s face flushed crimson. "Vivian, shut your mouth! I’m not engaged. Unlike you—married and still clinging to other men. Does Julian even know you’re taken?"

Julian’s gaze softened as it settled on Vivian. "As long as she doesn’t mind," he said smoothly, "neither do I."

Vivian’s pulse stuttered.

She had deflected flirtations a hundred times before, brushing them off without a second thought.

But this—this was different.

And she wasn’t sure how to respond.