No Escape from Love novel Chapter 8

A commanding voice cut through Julian's words. The sound was unmistakable, and I instinctively looked up.

It was Alex.

For once, he was dressed casually, yet his commanding presence was as unshakable as ever. His effortless confidence seemed to silence every conversation around us.

Alex strolled over, his gaze locking onto the necklace in Julian's hand. His brows furrowed slightly as he asked, "The Blakes from Grandview... Are they really that broke now?"

The casual remark hit like a slap, and Julian's expression darkened instantly.

He had a knack for subtly flaunting his wealth at the university. Though he never openly discussed his family background, his wardrobe was a constant display of designer labels. The sympathy he garnered from his classmates came from their obliviousness to his true status.

Upon hearing Alex's words, a local classmate from Grandview raised an eyebrow. "The Blake family? As in the one in the electronics industry?"

Julian's face went pale.

While the necklace was undoubtedly extravagant for an ordinary student, it appeared surprisingly modest for the heir of the Blake family.

"Serena," Julian said, finally regaining his composure. His incredulous gaze locked onto mine. "Is he... Is he your sugar daddy? Is that why you won't get back together with me?"

I scoffed. "Julian, stop playing the victim. Not everything is as filthy as your imagination makes it out to be."

Julian shook his head and stared at me. "No, it has to be him. You climbed the social ladder because of this guy, didn't you? That's why you're leaving me. Who is he?"

I frowned. Julian had no idea who Alex was.

But then it all clicked.

Alex had taken over his family's company the moment he came of age, making him a peer to Julian's father. He was in a completely different league from someone like Julian, who seemed far more interested in manipulating others.

"I think I wasn't clear enough," Alex said, stepping forward. "Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Serena's brother, and I'm the CEO of Hastings Group."