Better Late, But Never His Again novel Chapter 122

She smiled, feeling much more comfortable. Stretching lazily, she slowly shifted to lean against the headboard, picked up her phone, hesitated for a moment, and ultimately dialed Professor Finch's number.

The call connected after two rings. Professor Finch's voice carried a hint of concern. "Hazel? Still awake this late?"

"Professor, I need to tell you something," Hazel said, trying to make her tone sound as normal as possible to avoid worrying her mentor. "Over the next little while, keep an eye on the people around you. If Julian visits the Institute, just tell him I haven't been back."

Professor Finch fell silent for a moment, her voice growing tense. "Hazel, what happened? Tell me right now."

Hazel smiled softly. "Nothing serious. I just need a break. I'm planning to take a two-week vacation to clear my head. It's really just a break, so please don't overthink it, but I don't want Julian to know where I am."

Professor Finch remained silent on the other end of the line for a few seconds before sighing. "Alright, I understand. Don't worry, I won't let anyone bother you."

"Thank you, Professor," Hazel said, ending the call.

She leaned against the headboard, staring at the ceiling. The moonlight outside the window filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a silvery-white layer across the floor.

Her heart felt heavy. She wondered if Julian had already realized she was gone.

Meanwhile, Julian's car pulled up to the entrance of his estate. He killed the engine, pushed the door open, and strode into the house.

Mrs. Higgins peeked out from the kitchen, about to say something, but swallowed her words the moment she saw his stormy expression.

Taking the stairs two at a time, Julian pushed open the door to the guest bedroom.

The sight inside made him freeze in the doorway. The curtains had been violently ripped from the wall, strips of fabric scattered across the floor.

The window was wide open, the night wind howling into the room and violently flipping the pages of a book on the desk.

Evelyn's crying beside him grated on his nerves, fueling an explosive frustration building in his chest.

"Stop crying," he snapped, his voice laced with suppressed anger.

Evelyn froze, tears still hanging on her cheeks as she stared at him in disbelief.

She never expected Julian to yell at her.

Julian was equally stunned. He turned around, saw the deeply wronged look on Evelyn's face, and a wave of guilt washed over him.

He walked over, pulled her into his embrace, and gently patted her back. His voice softened.

"Evelyn, I'm sorry. I was just stressed. With Hazel gone, there's no one to apologize to you or clear the rumors online, and it's making me anxious. But don't worry, I promise I'll get you the justice you deserve."