Julian's calm, composed face inevitably surfaced in her mind.
"If it were Julian, he would have gathered all the evidence and thrown Miles straight into a jail cell so he'd never dare pull a stunt like this again," Eliza said softly. "Because that is how you actually solve a problem, instead of using pure ignorance to gloss over the cracks like Zander does."
"Ooh, look who's finally bringing up Dr. Lawrence on her own," Gwen teased, her eyes lighting up. She cracked open a beer and took a huge swig.
"But seriously, the contrast is insane, right?" Gwen nudged her shoulder playfully. "Julian's logic and the way he handles things... it gives you a sense of security you've never had before, doesn't it?"
Eliza lowered her eyelashes. "Yes. He's incredibly reliable."
"Exactly! But you can't just look at the surface." Gwen's expression turned serious. "The Lawrence family isn't just rich. They are true old money, actual elites. My brother told me that the Lawrences rarely show their faces in the media. Their level of secrecy is honestly terrifying."
"I also heard that Julian has an insanely capable older sister. Back when the Lawrence family was going through a turbulent period, she single-handedly held the Lawrence Group together. They call her the 'Iron Rose.'"
"Growing up in a family like that, Julian has seen the highest stakes imaginable. Zander's little stunts probably look like child's play to him."
"He's such a mysterious man! But who cares how mysterious he is when he's clearly wrapped around your little finger."
Eliza's cheeks flushed.
"Stop talking nonsense. He just sees me as an old college friend. I guess even spicy shrimp can't shut you up."
Despite her protests, her mind drifted back to Julian's calm, ocean-deep eyes back on Claremont Island. Beneath that seemingly gentle exterior, just how many ruthless secrets was he hiding?
Why was he so good to her?
"Alright, alright, my lips are sealed. Let's focus on the present." Gwen waved her hand dismissively and popped another shrimp into her mouth.
"Once this divorce cooling-off period is over, you'll grab your papers, walk out, and start a brilliant new chapter of your life! Also..."


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