Chapter 158

On the other end of the line, there was a brief pause before Julien's voice came through. "What's wrong? Who upset you?" Recognizing the voice, Shelmaine immediately apologized, "I'm sorry. I thought it was another harassment call. I didn't check the caller ID, so I got a bit defensive." Julien didn't mind and continued in his usual gentle tone, "Are you back?" "Yeah." "Should I come pick you up tonight?" Hearing that, Shelmaine hesitated. "I have a friend staying with me. It's not really a good time." "Have I met this friend before?" "You did, briefly, at the restaurant that time. I'm not sure if you remember." Without missing a beat, Julien replied, "I remember. I always remember your friends." "Is your memory that good?" "Of course." The next moment, his voice softened, taking on a hint of vulnerability. "You don't know how hard it's been for me. Every day feels like an eternity. I miss you." He was straightforward with his feelings, leaving Shelmaine feeling slightly flu