CHAPTER 113

Julia’s POV

Adrian stared at me with a puzzled expression, his brow furrowing slightly. “You look really familiar,” he said, his eyes narrowing as if trying to place me.

At that moment, a memory flashed through my mind like a lightning bolt—seeing Adrian at the beach where I’d hit Sophia on the head. I felt myself paling and a wave of dizziness threatened to overwhelm me. I took a deep breath, willing myself to stay calm. Everyone's eyes were on me—Sophia, Elijah, and Adrian—waiting for my response.

I forced a smile, trying to keep my expression nonchalant. “I don't think we've met before,” I said confidently. "I only know you from Sophia and Elijah's stories."

Adrian tilted his head, still looking uncertain. “Are you sure? I could swear I've seen you somewhere.”

I shrugged, doing my best to appear casual. “Maybe you saw me in a photo or something. But no, I don't think we've ever actually met.”

Sophia, sitting next to Elijah, glanced between us, her eyes filled with curiosity. Elijah