I stared at him, confused about why he was so angry.

I used to do that, and he'd say, "I'm in a relationship with you, not in prison. Please, give me some space. I can't breathe."

Now that I was giving him space, he was pissed that I wasn't checking up on him. I had no idea what he wanted anymore.

But I didn't bring up the past. I just replied calmly, "You were out with friends. It would have been weird for me to keep calling. You and Sophia are allies. I have nothing to worry about."

A look of disbelief crossed his face, probably shocked that I could mention Sophia's name so calmly.

Then, his expression shifted to one of understanding. "That Instagram post was just for show, to keep up appearances between the families. It didn't mean anything. Don't overthink it."

I shook my head, about to speak, but he cut me off. "What is it, then? Are you saying I shouldn't have gone to Sophia's party? Her family and ours go back a decade. We dated briefly, a long time ago. Now, it's purely about our families' interests. It was an ally's birthday. I had to be there."

"I get it," I said, my voice even. "It's late. You should get some rest."

Julian fell silent.

He stared at me, trying to figure out if I was truly not angry.

After a long moment, he couldn't read anything on my face.

He reached out to wrap his arm around my waist, but I silently moved away.

"Do you want the master bedroom or the guest room?" I asked coolly.