Chapter 45  

"Sure, go on ahead," Julian answered.

"why is the relationship between you and your family so estranged?"

Julian stiffened at the question, then he sank further into the chair and cleared his throat. "It has always been like that," he said, his eyes drifting to Leslie to see if he would find pity, which he despised, but he was only met with her clear gaze urging him to continue. "My brother has always been the family's favorite, and there's nothing anyone can do about it. I'm not sure it has anything to do with me," he stated, scratching the side of his jaw.

Leslie was once again overridden by heartache. She scooted closer to him and placed her hands on his, willing him to look at her. He didn't, and she knew why. This was the second time he was sharing something this personal with her, and she knew he didn't want her to see him vulnerable.

"Look at me, Julian," she cooed softly, and Julian finally pulled his gaze to her.

"I'm sorry you had to go through all this alone. I'm here any d