CHAPTER 160: HELPING SOPHIE FLEE

DAMIAN "We're going back to Chicago," I announced, leaning against the kitchen counter while watching Julia move around the stove, her back turned to me. The scent of sizzling bacon filled the small California apartment. "I booked our flight back while you were asleep." Her hand froze mid-motion, the spatula clutched tightly. I watched her shoulders tense, her spine stiffening. She didn't turn around. "Damian," she said, her voice strained. "We just got here. I thought we were staying for a few more days." I rubbed my temples, feeling the tension creeping in. Julia always thought I had time—time to relax and think—but time was the one luxury I didn't have. "Change of plans. We need to leave." She finally turned, her eyes narrowed, lips pursed. "You didn't even ask me." I held her gaze, my Adam's apple bobbing as I swallowed the irritation. "It's not up for discussion, Julia." Her eyes widened briefly before narrowing again, filled with something close to disgust. "Not up for dis