Julian didn't say anything after that question. He just stood there, looking at Scarlett with an expression that was hard to read. Not anger. Not disappointment. It was more like… fear of losing control.
"I know this decision isn't easy," Scarlett continued softly, trying not to sound defensive. "But this is what I wanted from the beginning. I didn't come to Manhattan just to be your contract wife."
Julian let out a rough breath. "That's not the problem."
"Then what is?" Scarlett challenged him, this time daring to meet his gaze. "You're the one who opened this door for me, Julian. You're the one who said I had a place in this world."
Julian let out a bitter chuckle. "I said that without thinking this far ahead."
"How far?" Scarlett frowned.
Julian didn't answer right away. He stepped closer, then stopped just a few steps away from her. Close enough to feel each other's breath, but far enough to still be safe.
