Bella's POV
I never danced around the truth when asked direct questions.
Since Julian wanted to know, I planned to give him a straight answer.
Just as I opened my mouth to respond, Helena's voice interrupted from behind us. "Bellie, come here! I just received a new box of rouge. Would you take a look at it for me?"
Helena's sudden arrival clearly annoyed Julian.
He started to shoot her a warning look, but she pretended not to notice and wrapped her arm around mine affectionately.
"You reckless boy, how can you ask such a bold question to a young lady? Can't you see you've made Bellie uncomfortable?" Helena scolded Julian. He stepped back awkwardly, finally noticing that I had dropped my gaze and fallen silent.
Sweat beaded on his forehead as he stammered an apology, "I... I spoke without thinking."
Helena guided me away, linking our arms. Julian looked like he wanted to follow but held back.
I glanced back to see Julian standing there as Helena led me away.
