Better Late, But Never His Again novel Chapter 166

Hearing her words, Julian's lips involuntarily curved upward into a satisfied smirk.

That familiar sense of control had returned. She was jealous.

Jealousy meant she still cared. Everything was still perfectly within his grasp.

He reached back and patted the back of her head, gently ruffling her hair.

"What are you thinking about, honey? Chloe is back."

Hazel froze. An image flashed in her mind—a vibrant girl with a ponytail, flashing two distinct canine teeth whenever she smiled.

Chloe was Julian's sister. She had gone abroad to study four years ago and hadn't been back since.

When Hazel first married into the family, Chloe had just turned eighteen. She had clung to her sister-in-law for everything—Hazel had even been the one to attend her parent-teacher conferences.

Chloe used to link arms with her while shopping, and would fiercely defend Hazel whenever Julian neglected her, acting like an incredibly supportive and understanding kid.

Hazel breathed a sigh of relief. "Oh. When did she get back?"

"Yesterday. I didn't get the chance to tell you, so I figured I'd make it a surprise," Julian said with a smile as he started the car. "Chloe used to love hanging out with you, and I know you adored her, so I held off on telling you."

Hazel nodded thoughtfully and turned her gaze back to the window.

Chloe was back. At least Julian hadn't lied about the airport run. As for whether it was actually a 'surprise,' she would have to wait and see.

They parked in the airport's underground lot and headed straight to the domestic arrivals gate.

Julian looked down at the flight information on his phone while Hazel stood silently beside him, watching the red text scrolling above the exit.

Waves of people flooded out of the corridor, rushing past them in a chaotic blur.

An indulgent smile spread across Julian's face. He pulled Chloe back to look her over, then lightly flicked her forehead—a completely weightless, affectionate tap.

"You're an adult now, stop making such a scene. Did you bring everything back?"

"Of course I did." Chloe stuck her tongue out playfully, then grabbed his arm again, leaning in close. "I'm probably staying for good this time. My advisor is based here, so I'm applying for grad school locally."

"Alright, whatever you want to do, I've got your back."

"I knew you were the best!" Chloe beamed, rubbing her head affectionately against his shoulder. Then, she peeked behind him, scanning the crowd as if searching for someone specific. "Where is Evelyn? Why didn't she come?"

Hazel was standing right there, less than six feet away.

From the moment she walked out of the terminal, Chloe hadn't spared a single glance in her direction.

Julian was caught off guard. He instinctively glanced at Hazel, then forced a smile and gently pried Chloe's hands off his arm.