The Man Who Waited vs. The Man Who Wasted novel Chapter 510

Julian's expression remained perfectly neutral. "I didn't want to disturb the patients."

"Penelope told me you didn't want to smell the disinfectants."

Caught in a lie, Julian didn't even flinch. He remained a picture of absolute serenity. That was Julian Vance for you—even if the sky were falling, he wouldn't blink.

"Julian," Jocelyn said seriously, "I don't want our relationship to become so strained."

"Jocelyn," he said quietly, "I just thought you'd feel more comfortable if I kept my distance."

The words hit her like a physical blow. She didn't feel relief; she just felt an awful, hollow ache in her chest. The brilliant, untouchable Julian Vance shouldn't have to tiptoe around her like this.

"I wouldn't," she said firmly.

Julian went perfectly still. "You wouldn't what?"

"I wouldn't be comfortable if you kept your distance. I've spent the last two days doing a lot of thinking."

She stepped up beside him and leaned back against the car, mirroring his posture. In the dim light of the garage, they looked like a stunning couple lost in a lover's quarrel, or perhaps just two old friends catching up.

Her voice was soft, laced with genuine vulnerability. "I'll admit, when I found out everything, I was completely overwhelmed. But it wasn't the feelings that upset me. It was the fact that everyone else knew, and I was completely in the dark. I felt like an idiot. And... I felt so guilty. You've always given me this unconditional support, and I can never give you the same in return. When I saw you risk your life to save me, it terrified me. I was so scared you were going to die."

Julian turned his head slightly, his gaze tracing the delicate, luminous curve of her profile in the garage lights. He quickly looked away. He knew her fear of losing him wasn't born out of romantic love.

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