Chapter 553

Julien's fingers gently combed through her long hair, intertwining with the silky strands. "What's this? Do you think I'm a scumbag, unwilling to make our relationship public?" "I didn't say that," Helen huffed softly. "There's nothing shady about it. Don't overthink," Julien reassured her, lightly kissing the tip of her nose. His lips were warm, and his breath was hot against her skin. Helen closed her eyes briefly, then reopened them, conflicted. She wanted to ask about what he had said before—how he would step aside if she ever wanted to get married. What did he mean by that? But the words wouldn't come out. He carried her to the bed and laid her down gently. Her dark, smooth hair fanned out across the pillow. The room was warmed by the heater, making it cozy, not cold. Still, he wondered—what would happen if she ever saw the darker, uglier sides of him? How would she feel about him then? Julien leaned over her, pinning her wrists. His fingers brushed her hair aside, exposin