Chapter 16: Completely Jealous

The man slowly bent down, his arm retracting from her knee, and then he embraced Julia tightly. Her pupils dilated as she found herself gazing into his handsome face, a mix of surprise and uncertainty washing over her. It was an unexpected move, considering his usual distance from women.

Jared's proximity had always been a mystery to her, a puzzle that seemed to click into place after that day she had confronted him. She suddenly realized the key reason behind his avoidance of women – her ability to heal Shiloh's leg. It became evident that his compliance in the past was largely due to his desperation for her medical skills.

Julia pondered the situation, realizing the need to maintain a delicate balance. She couldn't push him too far and risk crossing a line that would lead to her expulsion. And now, as he carried her upstairs, her astonishment grew. It was an act she hadn't anticipated.

While these thoughts swirled in Julia's mind, Jared's voice cut through the air, commanding his as