Julia was perplexed, her mind racing with anticipation. Typically, even the most laid-back husbands would bristle with anger or jealousy in this situation. But Max's reaction was eerily calm, almost...amused. His nonchalance was a refreshing change from the possessive men she had encountered in the past.
As they drove through the city streets, Julia's thoughts drifted back to their encounter with William. She was relieved that Max didn't seem to care about her past, but she couldn't help wondering why. Was it because he didn't see Max as a threat, or was it because he simply didn't care about her past at all?
Just then, Max's voice broke the silence, his tone curious but detached. "So, you and William have a history. Care to talk about it?"
Julia hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. But something about Max's nonchalant demeanor put her at ease. "We dated in high school, and later got accepted into the same college together. But his family sent him abroad, and we lost touch. We never even shared a kiss, we just held hands."
William nodded, his eyes fixed on the road ahead.
You attended a very good college. Why did you choose fashion design department?
Julia's expression turned guarded, her voice laced with a hint of pain. "Let's just say...life had other plans. I dropped out at my three hundred level after the first semester, and that's all there is."
Max's gaze flicked towards her, his eyes sparkling with intrigue. "I see. Well, Julia, you're full of surprises. I'm starting to think there's more to you than meets the eye."
Julia's thoughts was intense, her heart racing at the hint of curiosity in his voice. Maybe, just maybe, this loveless marriage wouldn't be so dull after all.
As they drove through the serene Villa Park Garden, Julia's embarrassment was discernible. Max, sensing her discomfort, tactfully refrained from asking further questions. But Julia's mind raced with anticipation, expecting him to press for more information. Instead, his silence only heightened her anxiety.
As they entered their cozy home, Julia's nerves got the better of her. She launched into a hurried explanation, as if to fill the awkward silence. "I chose the design department, you see. Fashion design, to be precise. But then...there was an incident sparked a scandal. The public's harsh criticism was too much to bear, and I had to leave school."
Max listened intently, his eyes filled with empathy. Julia's words were laced with a hint of vulnerability, and he sensed the pain she tried to conceal. "I see," he said softly. "That must have been incredibly challenging. Do you regret your decision?"
Julia shook her head, her hair swaying with the motion. "No, of course not. It's just...I didn't think you'd be home today."
Max chuckled, his eyes glaring at the corners. "I want to get to know you better, Julia. And what better way than to go with you to the fair today and help out with the sale?
Julia's heart skipped a beat at his words. She didn't expect Max, who worked with the high and notable Darius group, to be interested in her business. "Okay...sure," she stammered, trying to hide her excitement.
As she sat down to eat, Max returned to his laptop, his fingers flying across the keyboard. Julia couldn't help but steal glances at him, admiring the way his eyes focused on the screen, his brow furrowed in concentration. She realized that there was more to him than meets the eye.
Julia savored her breakfast, the silence between her and Max was comfortable and familiar. But the tranquility was shattered when the doorbell rang, piercing the morning calm. Julia's curiosity piqued, she glanced at the door, ready to rise, but Max swiftly intervened.
"Finish your breakfast, I'll get it," he said, closing his laptop and striding to the door.
She obeyed, her eyes fixed on him as he opened the door to reveal a stylish woman with a warm smile and outstretched arms.
"Surprise, son! I've come to meet my daughter-in-law!" Mrs Georgina Darius Wellington exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
Max was surprised, his face flushing with a mix of embarrassment and annoyance. "Mom, you shouldn't have come," he whispered urgently, grasping her arm to halt her entry.
Mrs. Georgina playfully rolled her eyes. "You didn't even introduce us to your wife, Max! Your Dad is not happy with you, I had to hear it from Sean, of all people. Well, I'm here to meet with Julia, not you!"
Julia's ears perked up, she was struggling to grasp what was going on, she could barely hear a thing, her heart racing with anticipation. She set her utensils down, her eyes locked on the door.
Max's face turned sheepish, his eyes darting apologetically toward Anita. Mom, please...this isn't a good time."
Mrs Georgina's eyes sparkled with delight. "Ah, my dear daughter-in-law! She suddenly remembered and said, I mean, my sister's daughter is my daughter, right? I'm so thrilled to finally meet you." She patted Julia's hand, her voice conspiratorial. She turned to Max,"Don't worry, dear, I won't embarrass you.
Julia's confusion deepened, but she smiled graciously. "Auntie, please come in and sit down. Can I offer you some water?"
Georgina beamed, her eyes shining with gratitude. "Thank you, dear. You're too kind. And don't worry about Max; I'm sure you'll get used to his personality soon. She chuckled, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
Julia handed Mrs. Georgina a glass of water and some fruit, her eyes never left her face, "I'm so happy to see you're married, dear. You've brought joy to my nephew's life, and for that, I'm eternally grateful."
Julia then slipped off the exquisite choker from her neck, its jadeite glimmering in the light. "I was in a rush today, dear, and forgot to bring a gift. Please, accept this as a wedding token from me."
Julia was surprised as she took in the beauty. Fashion designer and fashion enthusiast knows quality when she sees one. "Auntie, this is very precious, I can't possibly accept it."