Julian's voice carried a sharp edge as he spoke. "I already know you're not just a catalyst."
Beatrix froze for a moment, her eyes widening ever so slightly before she quickly masked it with a calm expression. "What do you mean by that?" she asked, her tone steady, though a faint tremor betrayed her surprise.
Julian glanced at her only briefly, then shook his head. "Forget it. If you won't admit it, then I won't force you."
He resumed walking, his footsteps echoing down the quiet corridor. But just as he passed her, Julian halted again, his words low and cutting. "Don't try anything you'll end up regretting."
Without waiting for her reply, he continued on his way, leaving Beatrix standing in silence.
Beatrix watched Julian's figure slowly fade down the corridor. With a weary sigh, she muttered under her breath, "Since when did he become like that…?"
