Chapter 29

Helena’s gaze lingered on Julian’s face. Tall, broad-shouldered, devastatingly handsome—he commanded the room. Even in the entertainment industry, a world brimming with heartthrobs, he would reign supreme. Beyond his looks lay unfathomable wealth, elite status, untouchable influence, and connections to the highest circles—a life most could only dream of.

Helena stared, dazed, her heart aching with longing. Her chest tightening with desperation, she thought, “If only he were mine. If that wretched Rosalie were dead, could I take her place and marry Julian?”

The intensity of Helena’s gaze intensified as she stared at Julian. At that moment, his eyes met hers. A jolt of panic shot through her, almost making her forget to mask her expression. Her heart pounded, but she quickly regained composure.

Within seconds, she crafted an air of delicate vulnerability, murmuring softly, hesitantly, “Julian.” Her demeanor was so fragile she seemed poised to crumble.

Julian, however, ignored her. His attention shifted to the still-fuming Edward. A slow, knowing smile curved Julian’s lips. “Didn’t take you for such a strict father,” he said with amusement.

Edward barely registered the remark before Julian continued, “All Rosalie did was speak the truth, and that was enough to provoke you?”

Rosalie nearly choked on her coffee. A violent coughing fit ensued; the coffee she’d just sipped nearly sprayed out, the unexpected words catching her so off guard that the liquid almost went down the wrong pipe, burning her throat.