CHAPTER 370

Julia’s POV

As I caught my breath, I finally made my way back to Henry, who was waiting for me near the edge of the crowd. I’d removed my scarf and sunglasses, hoping to blend in better with the revelers around us. The fireworks were about to start, and I needed to be there with him, as if we were just another couple celebrating the new year.

Henry's face was filled with concern, and some irritation too, as I approached. “Where have you been?” he asked, his voice low but urgent. “I told you to stay close. You might get caught. We can’t risk being recognized.”

I forced a smile, though it felt stiff on my face. “I just went to get a drink,” I said, trying to sound casual. But inside, I was seething. Seeing Sophia and Elijah, Kayla and Connor, and Daniel with his new girlfriend, all together and so obviously happy—it made my blood boil. They all seemed to have moved on, to be living these perfect lives, while I had to remain in hiding, constantly looking over my shoulder. It wasn’t fair.