- 2 days ago
Category
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PeopleTranscript
00:00I lied about my age and dated a man online who was seven years older than me.
00:04I never expected him to be so different.
00:06In real life, he was distant and cold, but online he would say all kinds of dirty things.
00:12When he got turned on, he even said he wanted to be my dog.
00:15I couldn't handle how clingy he was.
00:16So on the day I broke up with him, I blocked him on everything.
00:20Later, the wiring in my apartment caught fire in the middle of the night.
00:23Don't worry, I know a place you can stay.
00:26When my best friend found out, she immediately moved me into an empty apartment owned by her uncle.
00:31Until the next day, she and I went to the company for our internship.
00:34The moment the conference room door opened, the man sitting at the head of the table looked up.
00:38That cold, world-wearied face looked more familiar the longer I stared at it.
00:42It's him. It's actually him.
00:45Don't look. My uncle hates it the most when people throw themselves at him, especially female interns.
00:50Ever since he got dumped by some girl he dated online, his temper's gotten even worse.
00:52Dumped by some girl he dated online? That girl is me.
00:56So, your uncle's name wouldn't be Julian Vey, right?
00:58No way! How do you know that?
01:02No way! How do you know that?
01:04If I still had even any hope when I asked that question, then now, it was completely dead.
01:09Not only had I dated my best friend's uncle online, but I also ran into him again after breaking up
01:14over half a year.
01:15The odds were ridiculously low.
01:17Before I could figure out how to explain...
01:18Right! I probably mentioned his name before!
01:21The moment I realized the apartment I was staying in belonged to Julian, my heart started racing for no reason.
01:27When Chloe handed me the keys, she only said it was a place her uncle barely used.
01:30At the time, I even thought I was lucky.
01:33Now it made my scalp tiggle.
01:34What shocked me even more was that Julian in person was nothing like his online self.
01:38His distant eyes swept over me without the slightest reaction.
01:41It was like I was just one of Chloe's classmates.
01:43I would never have connected a proper man like him with my online ex.
01:47Online, he was all dirty talk and insanely possessive.
01:50I never answered his video calls, never sent photos, and never even told him my real name.
01:54But somehow, he still made me blush every single day through a screen.
01:57How many times has your uncle dated before?
01:59Julian? Why are you asking about that?
02:03A serious relationship? I don't think he's had one.
02:05If anything, there was only that online relationship.
02:08And he seemed pretty serious about it.
02:10But that girl dumped him out of nowhere, then completely disappeared.
02:13No wonder his temper has gotten worse these past six months.
02:16Anyway, don't worry. He's just as difficult with everyone.
02:18After saying that, she patted me.
02:19Difficult with everyone, except apparently with me, online.
02:22At the morning meeting on my first day, Julian sat right in front of me.
02:25He was wearing a black shirt.
02:27The cuffs rolled up to his wrists.
02:29His fingers were long and lean, and he was expressionless as he flipped through the files.
02:33But I couldn't stop looking in his direction.
02:35The next second, as if he had sensed something, he suddenly looked up.
02:39His gaze landed straight on my face.
02:41My heart jumped.
02:43I immediately lowered my head.
02:45But even then, I could still feel it.
02:47His eyes stayed on me for several seconds.
02:49The new interns, introduce yourselves first.
02:52When it was my turn to stand up, even my voice stiffened a little.
02:56Mara, summer intern in the marketing department.
02:59I had always been good with words, so the rest of my intro went smoothly, too.
03:02The people around me nodded.
03:04Only Julian didn't react.
03:05Someone like him probably wouldn't easily connect the real me with that online account.
03:10Mara.
03:10But over the next half hour, he called on me twice.
03:13They were normal work questions.
03:14But coming from him, they still made my palms tingle.
03:17Especially the last time.
03:19Julian leaned back in his chair, his dark eyes sweeping over me calmly.
03:22Mara, you look nervous.
03:23Is this your first internship?
03:26A little.
03:26I forced out a smile.
03:28A few soft laughs sounded in the conference room.
03:30The mood seemed to loosen up a bit.
03:31But only I knew my nerves had nothing to do with the internship.
03:34After the meeting ended, Chloe was still sighing beside me.
03:36Oh no, Julian actually remembered your name.
03:38He usually can't even be bothered to recognize people.
03:40I didn't say anything.
03:41But the un-enus in my chest only grew stronger.
03:43At lunch, Chloe kept complaining to me about how hard Julian was to deal with.
03:46But I was only half listening.
03:48All I could think about was the way he had looked at me in the conference room.
03:51The more I thought about it, the more wrong it felt.
03:53So right after lunch, I started looking through rental apps.
03:56No matter what, I couldn't keep staying in that apartment.
03:59Even if Julian hadn't recognized me yet, that didn't mean he wouldn't later.
04:02But before I finished scrolling through apartments, a shadow suddenly fell over me.
04:06I looked up.
04:07Come to my office.
04:08Julian was standing beside my desk.
04:11My heart dropped, but I could only force myself to get up.
04:14As I followed him in, I was already brainstorming how to die with dignity if he called me out on
04:19the spot.
04:19Chloe will be working on this project as well.
04:21Take a look first.
04:22Julian placed a file on the desk.
04:24His voice was flat.
04:25I froze for a second.
04:26I just let out a breath of relief.
04:27I didn't expect it to actually be about work.
04:29Have you found a place to stay?
04:31When I heard him ask, my back stiffened.
04:33When I looked up at him, Julian had already sat back behind his desk.
04:36His expression was calm, as if he had just asked it casually.
04:39Not yet.
04:40But for some reason, it made me feel uneasy.
04:42After hesitating for two seconds, I still answered,
04:45Chloe said something happened to your old apartment.
04:47It's hard to find a new place on short notice.
04:50I nodded and didn't dare say much.
04:52Stay in that apartment for now.
04:53The next second, I heard him say calmly.
04:55I couldn't read anything in his dark eyes.
04:56It's close to the company.
04:57Easy commute.
04:58Moving around right now would be inefficient.
04:59No, thanks. I can handle it myself.
05:01But the problem was, it was his apartment.
05:03Julian looked at me for a moment, then suddenly gave a faint smile.
05:06Handle it how?
05:07By staying in a hotel?
05:08Or keep looking for a short-term rental?
05:10Mara, it's your first day as an intern, and you're already distracted.
05:13He stood up and leaned in toward me.
05:15My face felt a little warm, and I still hadn't figured out how to answer.
05:18You can leave.
05:19He had already looked down and opened the file.
05:21His tone turned cold again.
05:23Organize these materials and send them to me before tomorrow morning.
05:26I could only answer saltly.
05:27The whole Drenan bite leave.
05:28One more thing.
05:30As my hand just touched a doorknob.
05:31Send me your personal number.
05:32It'll be easier to reach you if something comes up.
05:34Julian looked at his computer screen.
05:40After I left his office, there was only one thought left in my head.
05:42I'm screwed.
05:43Had he already suspected me?
05:44But when I thought about it carefully, there was no proof.
05:47I had changed my number long ago.
05:48My social media accounts weren't the same ones either.
05:50Even the name I used when we dated online was fake.
05:52There was no way Julian could pin it on me this quickly.
05:55When I got back to my desk, Chloe was spinning in her chair and looking at me.
05:58Her face was full of gossip.
06:00I put the file down and tried to sound as natural as possible.
06:03What did Julian want with you alone?
06:06Work.
06:07He pulled you aside on the first day?
06:09Mara, you're done for.
06:10Chloe clicked her tongue, clearly not buying it.
06:12My mind was already a mess.
06:13Mara, you're done for.
06:14But it makes sense.
06:15You're cute and you know how to talk.
06:16And she kept adding fuel to the fire.
06:19I almost choked on my own spit.
06:21I had no idea if that kind of thing actually worked on him now.
06:23But back then, he definitely fell for me.
06:25In the end, I still sent Julian my number.
06:27Got it.
06:28Almost the very next second, a message popped up in the chat.
06:30I stared at those two words and my scalp went numb.
06:32Because he still hadn't changed his profile picture.
06:34It was still the same one from before.
06:35It was one half of a couple profile picture I picked out randomly.
06:38I had deleted my account and run off long ago.
06:40I never thought he would still be using it.
06:42I had mixed feelings for a moment.
06:44Just as I was about to leave the chat,
06:46a new message popped up.
06:47Head home early tonight.
06:49Don't go anywhere else.
06:50I stared at the screen and almost thought I had read it wrong.
06:53That tone was exactly the same as when he used to boss me around online.
06:56But before I could reply, he sent another message.
06:59The materials should be submitted tomorrow.
07:01Before work ended,
07:01Chloe got a call from her mom and had to leave.
07:04You'll be fine going back by yourself, right?
07:06She said there were guests coming over tonight
07:08and her mom wanted her home early.
07:09Before she left, she still waved at me.
07:10I nodded.
07:11I couldn't wait for her to leave.
07:12Hopefully she wouldn't mention Julian again tonight.
07:14Come to the basement garage.
07:16But as I finished packing my things, my phone buzzed.
07:18I stared at that line for two seconds.
07:20Then I pretended I didn't see it.
07:23I don't want to say that again.
07:25Less than half a minute later, a second message came in.
07:29I closed my eyes and accepted my faith, then went downstairs.
07:33A black sedan was parked in the farthest spot.
07:37When the window rolled down, Julian turned his head and glanced at me.
07:40Get in.
07:41That won't be necessary.
07:42I can get back myself.
07:43You're staying at my place.
07:45Hearing that, he rested one hand on the wheel.
07:47His expression was calm.
07:48Is it really that much trouble for me to drive you back?
07:51One sentence completely shut me up.
07:53I had no choice but to open the car door and get in.
07:56The whole ride was quiet.
07:58Julian didn't speak, and I didn't dare say anything either.
08:01It wasn't until the car pulled into the underground garage that I realized we had arrived.
08:06I had just unbucketed my seatbelt and was about to get out when I saw Julian turn off the engine,
08:10too.
08:10I froze and turned to look at him.
08:11Why aren't you leaving?
08:13Who told you I was only driving you back?
08:16Forgot to tell you.
08:17I'm planning to move back into this apartment.
08:19I froze.
08:20What do you mean?
08:22I was going to tell you in a couple of days.
08:24He finally turned his face towards me, his gaze dark and heavy.
08:28Then I'll move out tomorrow.
08:30As soon as I said that, Julian suddenly smiled.
08:32But since you're asking today, I'll let you know early.
08:35The next second, he unbuckled his seatbelt and leaned toward me.
08:38The distance between us closed all at once.
08:40My whole body went stiff.
08:42Move where?
08:43He braced one hand beside me and looked down at me.
08:46Mara, you haven't found a place yet, right?
08:49I was trapped between him, the seat, and the car door.
08:52Even breathing felt a little hard.
08:54But Julian kept staring at me.
08:55That's my problem.
08:56I forced myself to turn my face away.
08:58Even my voice was tight.
08:59The next second, Julian pulled back a little.
09:01As if the moment when he leaned in had been my imagination.
09:03Fine.
09:03Then move out after you find a place.
09:05After that, he got out of the car first.
09:07I sat there for a long while.
09:08Then finally followed him out.
09:10There were only the two of us in the elevator.
09:12The mirrored wall reflected my stiff face and his completely unaffected expression.
09:17After we entered the apartment, I hadn't even finished changing my shoes.
09:20Julian had already hung his coat by the entryway and walked straight inside.
09:23That just made me feel even worse.
09:25I had planned to pack my things tonight, but now that he had moved in, I suddenly didn't
09:29know what to do.
09:30There isn't much food in the fridge.
09:32When you order delivery, get one for me too.
09:34Why don't you order it yourself?
09:35Because you're already ordering.
09:37Just then, Julian suddenly turned back to look at me.
09:39I falls, then asked without thinking.
09:43I looked down.
09:44Sure enough, my phone was still open to a food delivery app.
09:48That night, when I came out after my shower, the living room light was still on.
09:52Julian was sitting on the couch, looking at his laptop.
09:54Two cut-ins at the collar of his shirt were unded.
09:57His sleeves were rolled up to his forearms.
09:59Hearing the sound, he looked up at me, just one glance.
10:01But for some reason, my face felt a little hot.
10:04Unfortunately, I had picked the wrong pajamas tonight.
10:06I was wearing an oversized t-shirt and shorts.
10:08When I lived alone, I never thought anything of it.
10:10But now there was a man in the apartment.
10:12He was my online ex and my boss.
10:14I'm going back to my room.
10:16No matter how I think about it, I felt uncomfortable.
10:19Julian hummed in response, but his eyes didn't look away right away.
10:22His stare made me even more uneasy.
10:25I was just about to hurry away when I suddenly heard him ask,
10:28Were you always afraid of me?
10:30When I stopped, gave a hard thump.
10:31My steps stopped.
10:33For a second, I almost thought he had recognized me.
10:35But when I turned back to look, Julian's expression was the same as always,
10:38and his tone was calm.
10:39I forced a smile.
10:40You're my boss, after all.
10:42Is that so?
10:44Hearing that, his lips twitched.
10:45I couldn't tell what he meant by it.
10:48That made me feel guilty.
10:49I didn't dare say anything else.
10:51After I went back to my room, I locked the door behind me.
10:53Then I threw myself onto the bed.
10:55I felt like my head was about to explode.
10:57Had he recognized me or not?
10:58If he hadn't, then what were all these reactions supposed to mean?
11:00If he had, then why hadn't he exposed me yet?
11:03That night, I tossed and turned and couldn't fall asleep.
11:05In the middle of the night, I got thirsty and went out to get some water.
11:08But the living room light was still on.
11:10Julian wasn't asleep yet.
11:11He was standing in the open kitchen, holding a glass of ice water.
11:15Couldn't sleep?
11:16When he heard the footsteps, he turned to look at me.
11:18I froze for a second, then nodded.
11:21He didn't ask anything else.
11:22He just pushed another glass toward me.
11:24When I walked over to get some water, we stood a little too close.
11:27If I looked up, I could see the line of his jaw and the loose collar of his shirt.
11:34Mara, your voice is easy to recognize.
11:37I lied about my age and dated a man online who was seven years older than me.
11:41I never expected him to be so different.
11:43In real life, he was distant and cold, but online he would say all kinds of dirty things.
11:49When he got turned on, he even said he wanted to be my dog.
11:52I couldn't handle how clingy he was.
11:53So on the day I broke up with him, I blocked him on everything.
11:57Later, the wiring in my apartment caught fire in the middle of the night.
12:00Don't worry.
12:01I know a place you can stay.
12:03When my best friend found out, she immediately moved me into an empty apartment owned by her uncle.
12:08Until the next day, she and I went to the company for our internship.
12:11The moment the conference room door opened, the man sitting at the head of the table looked up.
12:15That cold, world-wearied face looked more familiar the longer I stared at it.
12:19It's him.
12:20It's actually him.
12:23Don't look.
12:23My uncle hates it the most when people throw themselves at him, especially female interns.
12:27Ever since he got dumped by some girl he dated online, his temper's gotten even worse.
12:29Dumped by some girl he dated online?
12:31That girl is me.
12:33So, your uncle's name wouldn't be Julian Vey, right?
12:36No way!
12:36How do you know that?
12:39No way!
12:40How do you know that?
12:41If I still had even any hope when I asked that question, then now, it was completely dead.
12:46Not only had I dated my best friend's uncle online, but I also ran into him again after breaking up
12:51over half a year.
12:52The odds were ridiculously low.
12:54Before I could figure out how to explain.
12:56Right!
12:56I probably mentioned his name before.
12:58The moment I realized the apartment I was staying in belonged to Julian, my heart started racing for no reason.
13:04When Chloe handed me the keys, she only said it was a place her uncle barely used.
13:08At the time, I even thought I was lucky.
13:10Now it made my scalp tiggle.
13:11What shocked me even more was that Julian in person was nothing like his online self.
13:15His distant eyes swept over me without the slightest reaction.
13:18It was like I was just one of Chloe's classmates.
13:21I would never have connected a proper man like him with my online ex.
13:24Online, he was all dirty talk and insanely possessive.
13:27I never answered his video calls, never sent photos, and never even told him my real name.
13:31But somehow, he still made me blush every single day through a screen.
13:34How many times has your uncle dated before?
13:37Julian?
13:37Why are you asking about that?
13:40A serious relationship?
13:41I don't think he's had one.
13:42If anything, there was only that online relationship.
13:45And he seemed pretty serious about it.
13:47But that girl dumped him out of nowhere, then completely disappeared.
13:50No wonder his temper has gotten worse these past six months.
13:53Anyway, don't worry.
13:54He's just as difficult with everyone.
13:55After saying that, she patted me.
13:56Difficult with everyone, except apparently with me, online.
13:59At the morning meeting on my first day, Julian sat right in front of me.
14:03He was wearing a black shirt.
14:04The cuffs rolled up to his wrists.
14:06His fingers were long and lean, and he was expressionless as he flipped through the files.
14:10But I couldn't stop looking in his direction.
14:12The next second, as if he had sensed something, he suddenly looked up.
14:16His gaze landed straight on my face.
14:18My heart jumped.
14:20I immediately lowered my head.
14:22But even then, I could still feel it.
14:24His eyes stayed on me for several seconds.
14:26The new interns?
14:27Introduce yourselves first.
14:29When it was my turn to stand up, even my voice stiffened a little.
14:33Mara.
14:34Summer intern in the marketing department.
14:36I had always been good with words.
14:37So the rest of my intro went smoothly, too.
14:39The people around me nodded.
14:41Only Julian didn't react.
14:42Someone like him probably wouldn't easily connect the real me with that online account.
14:47Mara.
14:47But over the next half hour, he called on me twice.
14:50They were normal work questions.
14:51But coming from him, they still made my palms tingle.
14:54Especially the last time.
14:56Julian leaned back in his chair, his dark eyes sweeping over me calmly.
14:59Mara, you look nervous.
15:00Is this your first internship?
15:03A little.
15:03I forced out a smile.
15:05A few soft laughs sounded in the conference room.
15:07The mood seemed to loosen up a bit.
15:08But only I knew my nerves had nothing to do with the internship.
15:11After the meeting ended, Chloe was still sighing beside me.
15:13Oh no, Julian actually remembered your name.
15:15He usually can't even be bothered to recognize people.
15:17I didn't say anything, but the un-enus in my chest only grew stronger.
15:20At lunch, Chloe kept complaining to me about how hard Julian was to deal with,
15:24but I was only half listening.
15:25All I could think about was the way he had looked at me in the conference room.
15:28The more I thought about it, the more wrong it felt.
15:31So right after lunch, I started looking through rental apps.
15:33No matter what, I couldn't keep staying in that apartment.
15:36Even if Julian hadn't recognized me yet, that didn't mean he wouldn't later.
15:39But before I finished scrolling through apartments, a shadow suddenly fell over me.
15:43I looked up.
15:44Come to my office.
15:45Julian was standing beside my desk.
15:48My heart dropped, but I could only force myself to get up.
15:51As I followed him in, I was already brainstorming how to die with dignity if he called me out on
15:56the spot.
15:57Chloe will be working on this project as well.
15:58Take a look first.
15:59Julian placed a file on the desk.
16:01His voice was flat.
16:02I froze for a second.
16:03I just let out a breath of relief.
16:04I didn't expect it to actually be about work.
16:07Have you found a place to stay?
16:08When I heard him ask, my back stiffened.
16:10When I looked up at him, Julian had already sat back behind his desk.
16:13His expression was calm, as if he had just asked it casually.
16:16Not yet.
16:17But for some reason, it made me feel uneasy.
16:20After hesitating for two seconds, I still answered,
16:22Chloe said something happened to your old apartment.
16:24It's hard to find a new place on short notice.
16:27I nodded and didn't dare say much.
16:29Stay in that apartment for now.
16:30The next second, I heard him say calmly.
16:32I couldn't read anything in his dark eyes.
16:33It's close to the company.
16:34Easy commute.
16:35Moving around right now would be inefficient.
16:36No, thanks.
16:37I can handle it myself.
16:38But the problem was, it was his apartment.
16:40Julian looked at me for a moment, then suddenly gave a faint smile.
16:43Handle it how?
16:44By staying in a hotel?
16:45Or keep looking for a short-term rental?
16:47Mara, it's your first day as an intern, and you're already distracted.
16:50He stood up and leaned in toward me.
16:52My face felt a little warm, and I still hadn't figured out how to answer.
16:55You can leave.
16:56He had already looked down and opened the file.
16:58His tone turned cold again.
17:00Organize these materials and send them to me before tomorrow morning.
17:03I could only answer saltly.
17:04The whole Drennan bite leave.
17:06One more thing.
17:07As my hand just touched a doorknob.
17:08Send me your personal number.
17:09It'll be easier to reach you if something comes up.
17:11Julian looked at his computer screen.
17:17After I left his office, there was only one thought left in my head.
17:19I'm screwed.
17:20Had he already suspected me?
17:21But when I thought about it carefully, there was no proof.
17:24I had changed my number long ago.
17:25My social media accounts weren't the same ones either.
17:27Even the name I used when we dated online was fake.
17:29There was no way Julian could pin it on me this quickly.
17:32When I got back to my desk, Chloe was spinning in her chair and looking at me.
17:36Her face was full of gossip.
17:37I put the file down and tried to sound as natural as possible.
17:40What did Julian want with you alone?
17:43Work.
17:44He pulled you aside on the first day?
17:46Mara, you're done for.
17:47Chloe clicked her tongue, clearly not buying it.
17:49My mind was already a mess.
17:50Mara, you're done for.
17:51But it makes sense.
17:52You're cute and you know how to talk.
17:54And she kept adding fuel to the fire.
17:56I almost choked on my own spit.
17:58I had no idea if that kind of thing actually worked on him now.
18:00But back then, he definitely fell for me.
18:02In the end, I still sent Julian my number.
18:04Got it.
18:05Almost the very next second, a message popped up in the chat.
18:07I stared at those two words and my scalp went numb.
18:09Because he still hadn't changed his profile picture.
18:11It was still the same one from before.
18:12It was one half of a couple profile picture I picked out randomly.
18:15I had deleted my account and run off long ago.
18:17I never thought he would still be using it.
18:19I had mixed feelings for a moment.
18:21Just as I was about to leave the chat, a new message popped up.
18:24Head home early tonight.
18:26Don't go anywhere else.
18:27I stared at the screen and almost thought I had read it wrong.
18:30That tone was exactly the same as when he used to boss me around online.
18:33But before I could reply, he sent another message.
18:36The material should be submitted tomorrow.
18:38Before work ended, Chloe got a call from her mom and had to leave.
18:41You'll be fine going back by yourself, right?
18:43She said there were guests coming over tonight and her mom wanted her home early.
18:46Before she left, she still waved at me.
18:47I nodded.
18:48I couldn't wait for her to leave.
18:49Hopefully she wouldn't mention Julian again tonight.
18:51Come to the basement garage.
18:53But as I finished packing my things, my phone buzzed.
18:55I stared at that line for two seconds.
18:57Then I pretended I didn't see it.
19:01I don't want to say that again.
19:03Less than half a minute later, a second message came in.
19:06I closed my eyes and accepted my faith, then went downstairs.
19:10A black sedan was parked in the farthest spot.
19:14When the window rolled down, Julian turned his head and glanced at me.
19:17Get in.
19:18That won't be necessary.
19:19I can get back myself.
19:20You're staying at my place.
19:22Hearing that, he rested one hand on the wheel.
19:24His expression was calm.
19:25Is it really that much trouble for me to drive you back?
19:28One sentence completely shut me up.
19:30I had no choice but to open the car door and get in.
19:33The whole ride was quiet.
19:35Julian didn't speak, and I didn't dare say anything either.
19:38It wasn't until the car pulled into the underground garage that I realized we had arrived.
19:43I had just unbucked my seatbelt and was about to get out when I saw Julian turn off the engine,
19:47too.
19:47I froze and turned to look at him.
19:48Why aren't you leaving?
19:50Who told you I was only driving you back?
19:53Forgot to tell you.
19:54I'm planning to move back into this apartment.
19:56I froze.
19:57What do you mean?
20:00I was going to tell you in a couple of days.
20:01He finally turned his face towards me, his gaze dark and heavy.
20:06Then I'll move out tomorrow.
20:07As soon as I said that, Julian suddenly smiled.
20:09But since you're asking today, I'll let you know early.
20:12The next second, he unbuckled his seatbelt and leaned toward me.
20:15The distance between us closed all at once.
20:18My whole body went stiff.
20:19Move where?
20:20He braced one hand beside me and looked down at me.
20:23Mara, you haven't found a place yet, right?
20:26I was trapped between him, the seat, and the car door.
20:29Even breathing felt a little hard.
20:31But Julian kept staring at me.
20:32That's my problem.
20:33I forced myself to turn my face away.
20:35Even my voice was tight.
20:36The next second, Julian pulled back a little, as if the moment when he leaned in had been my imagination.
20:40Fine, then move out after you find a place.
20:42After that, he got out of the car first.
20:44I sat there for a long while, then finally followed him out.
20:47There were only the two of us in the elevator.
20:49The mirrored wall reflected my stiff face and his completely unaffected expression.
20:54After we entered the apartment, I hadn't even finished changing my shoes.
20:58Julian had already hung his coat by the entryway and walked straight inside.
21:01That just made me feel even worse.
21:02I had planned to pack my things tonight, but now that he had moved in, I suddenly didn't know what
21:06to do.
21:07There isn't much food in the fridge.
21:09When you order delivery, get one for me too.
21:11Why don't you order it yourself?
21:12Because you're already ordering.
21:14Just then, Julian suddenly turned back to look at me.
21:16I falls, then asked without thinking.
21:20I looked down.
21:21Sure enough, my phone was still open to a food delivery app.
21:25That night, when I came out after my shower, the living room light was still on.
21:29Julian was sitting on the couch, looking at his laptop.
21:32Two cuttons at the collar of his shirt were unded.
21:34His sleeves were rolled up to his forearms.
21:35Hearing the sound, he looked up at me, just one glance.
21:39But for some reason, my face felt a little hot.
21:41Unfortunately, I had picked the wrong pajamas tonight.
21:43I was wearing an oversized t-shirt and shorts.
21:45When I lived alone, I never thought anything of it.
21:47But now there was a man in the apartment.
21:49He was my online ex, and my boss.
21:51I'm going back to my room.
21:53No matter how I think about it, I felt uncomfortable.
21:56Julian hummed in response.
21:58But his eyes didn't look away right away.
22:00His stare made me even more uneasy.
22:02I was just about to hurry away when I suddenly heard him ask,
22:05Were you always afraid of me?
22:07When I stopped, gave a hard thump.
22:09My steps stopped.
22:10For a second, I almost thought he had recognized me.
22:12But when I turned back to look, Julian's expression was the same as always, and his tone was calm.
22:16I forced a smile.
22:17You're my boss, after all.
22:20Is that so?
22:21Hearing that, his lips twitched.
22:23I couldn't tell what he meant by it.
22:25That made me feel guilty.
22:26I didn't dare say anything else.
22:28After I went back to my room, I locked the door behind me.
22:30Then I threw myself onto the bed.
22:32I felt like my head was about to explode.
22:34Had he recognized me or not?
22:35If he hadn't, then what were all these reactions supposed to mean?
22:38If he had, then why hadn't he exposed me yet?
22:40That night, I tossed and turned and couldn't fall asleep.
22:42In the middle of the night, I got thirsty and went out to get some water.
22:45But the living room light was still on.
22:47Julian wasn't asleep yet.
22:49He was standing in the open kitchen, holding a glass of ice water.
22:52Couldn't sleep?
22:52When he heard the footsteps, he turned to look at me.
22:55I froze for a second, then nodded.
22:58He didn't ask anything else.
22:59He just pushed another glass toward me.
23:01When I walked over to get some water, we stood a little too close.
23:04If I looked up, I could see the line of his jaw and the loose collar of his shirt.
23:11Mara, your voice is easy to recognize.
23:14I lied about my age and dated a man online who was seven years older than me.
23:18I never expected him to be so different.
23:20In real life, he was distant and cold, but online, he would say all kinds of dirty things.
23:26When he got turned on, he even said he wanted to be my dog.
23:29I couldn't handle how clingy he was.
23:31So on the day I broke up with him, I blocked him on everything.
23:34Later, the wiring in my apartment caught fire in the middle of the night.
23:37Don't worry.
23:38I know a place you can stay.
23:40When my best friend found out, she immediately moved me into an empty apartment owned by her uncle.
23:45Until the next day, she and I went to the company for our internship.
23:48The moment the conference room door opened, the man sitting at the head of the table looked up.
23:52That cold, world-wearied face looked more familiar the longer I stared at it.
23:56It's him.
23:57It's actually him.
24:00Don't look.
24:00My uncle hates it the most when people throw themselves at him, especially female interns.
24:04Ever since he got dumped by some girl he dated online, his temper's gotten even worse.
24:06Dumped by some girl he dated online?
24:08That girl is me.
24:10So, your uncle's name wouldn't be Julian Vey, right?
24:13No way!
24:13How do you know that?
24:16No way!
24:17How do you know that?
24:18If I still had even any hope when I asked that question, then now, it was completely dead.
24:23Not only had I dated my best friend's uncle online, but I also ran into him again after
24:28breaking up over half a year.
24:29The odds were ridiculously low.
24:31Before I could figure out how to explain.
24:33Right!
24:33I probably mentioned his name before.
24:35The moment I realized the apartment I was staying in belonged to Julian, my heart started
24:39racing for no reason.
24:41When Chloe handed me the keys, she only said it was a place her uncle barely used.
24:45At the time, I even thought I was lucky.
24:46Now it made my scalp tiggle.
24:48What shocked me even more was that Julian in person was nothing like his online self.
24:52His distant eyes swept over me without the slightest reaction.
24:55It was like I was just one of Chloe's classmates.
24:58I would never have connected a proper man like him with my online ex.
25:01Online, he was all dirty talk and insanely possessive.
25:04I never answered his video calls, never sent photos, and never even told him my real name.
25:08But somehow, he still made me blush every single day through a screen.
25:11How many times has your uncle dated before?
25:14Julian?
25:14Why are you asking about that?
25:17A serious relationship?
25:18I don't think he's had one.
25:19If anything, there was only that online relationship.
25:22And he seemed pretty serious about it.
25:24But that girl dumped him out of nowhere, then completely disappeared.
25:27No wonder his temper has gotten worse these past six months.
25:30Anyway, don't worry.
25:31He's just as difficult with everyone.
25:32After saying that, she patted me.
25:33Difficult with everyone?
25:34Except apparently with me, online.
25:36At the morning meeting on my first day, Julian sat right in front of me.
25:40He was wearing a black shirt.
25:41The cuffs rolled up to his wrists.
25:43His fingers were long and lean, and he was expressionless as he flipped through the files.
25:47But I couldn't stop looking in his direction.
25:49The next second, as if he had sensed something, he suddenly looked up.
25:53His gaze landed straight on my face.
25:56My heart jumped.
25:57I immediately lowered my head.
25:59But even then, I could still feel it.
26:01His eyes stayed on me for several seconds.
26:04The new interns?
26:04Introduce yourselves first.
26:06When it was my turn to stand up, even my voice stiffened a little.
26:10Mara.
26:11Summer intern in the marketing department.
26:12I had always been good with words.
26:14So the rest of my intro went smoothly, too.
26:16The people around me nodded.
26:18Only Julian didn't react.
26:19Someone like him probably wouldn't easily connect the real me with that online account.
26:24Mara.
26:24But over the next half hour, he called on me twice.
26:27They were normal work questions.
26:28But coming from him, they still made my palms tingle.
26:31Especially the last time.
26:33Julian leaned back in his chair, his dark eyes sweeping over me calmly.
26:36Mara, you look nervous.
26:37Is this your first internship?
26:40A little.
26:41I forced out a smile.
26:42A few soft laughs sounded in the conference room.
26:44The mood seemed to loosen up a bit.
26:45But only I knew my nerves had nothing to do with the internship.
26:48After the meeting ended, Chloe was still sighing beside me.
26:50Oh no, Julian actually remembered your name.
26:52He usually can't even be bothered to recognize people.
26:54I didn't say anything, but the un-enus in my chest only grew stronger.
26:57At lunch, Chloe kept complaining to me about how hard Julian was to deal with, but I was
27:01only half listening.
27:02All I could think about was the way he had looked at me in the conference room.
27:05The more I thought about it, the more wrong it felt.
27:08So right after lunch, I started looking through rental apps.
27:10No matter what, I couldn't keep staying in that apartment.
27:13Even if Julian hadn't recognized me yet, that didn't mean he wouldn't later.
27:16But before I finished scrolling through apartments, a shadow suddenly fell over me.
27:20I looked up.
27:21Come to my office.
27:22Julian was standing beside my desk.
27:25My heart dropped, but I could only force myself to get up.
27:28As I followed him in, I was already brainstorming how to die with dignity if he called me out
27:33on the spot.
27:34Chloe will be working on this project as well.
27:36Take a look first.
27:36Julian placed a file on the desk.
27:38His voice was flat.
27:39I froze for a second.
27:40I just let out a breath of relief.
27:42I didn't expect it to actually be about work.
27:44Have you found a place to stay?
27:45When I heard him ask, my back stiffened.
27:47When I looked up at him, Julian had already sat back behind his desk.
27:50His expression was calm, as if he had just asked it casually.
27:53Not yet.
27:54But for some reason, it made me feel uneasy.
27:57After hesitating for two seconds, I still answered,
27:59Chloe said something happened to your old apartment.
28:01It's hard to find a new place on short notice.
28:04I nodded and didn't dare say much.
28:06Stay in that apartment for now.
28:07The next second, I heard him say calmly.
28:09I couldn't read anything in his dark eyes.
28:10It's close to the company.
28:11Easy commute.
28:12Moving around right now would be inefficient.
28:13No, thanks.
28:14I can handle it myself.
28:15But the problem was, it was his apartment.
28:17Julian looked at me for a moment, then suddenly gave a faint smile.
28:20Handle it how?
28:21By staying in a hotel?
28:22Or keep looking for a short-term rental?
28:25Mara, it's your first day as an intern, and you're already distracted.
28:27He stood up and leaned in toward me.
28:29My face felt a little warm, and I still hadn't figured out how to answer.
28:32You can leave.
28:33He had already looked down and opened the file.
28:35His tone turned cold again.
28:37Organize these materials and send them to me before tomorrow morning.
28:39Hmm, I could only answer saltly.
28:41The whole drenin bite leave.
28:43One more thing.
28:44As my hand just touched a doorknob.
28:45Send me your personal number.
28:46It'll be easier to reach you if something comes up.
28:48Julian looked at his computer screen.
28:54After I left his office, there was only one thought left in my head.
28:56I'm screwed.
28:57Had he already suspected me?
28:58But when I thought about it carefully, there was no proof.
29:01I had changed my number long ago.
29:02My social media accounts weren't the same ones either.
29:04Even the name I used when we dated online was fake.
29:07There was no way Julian could pin it on me this quickly.
29:09When I got back to my desk, Chloe was spinning in her chair and looking at me.
29:13Her face was full of gossip.
29:14I put the file down and tried to sound as natural as possible.
29:17What did Julian want with you alone?
29:20Work.
29:21He pulled you aside on the first day?
29:23Mara, you're done for.
29:24Chloe clicked her tongue, clearly not buying it.
29:26My mind was already a mess.
29:27Mara, you're done for.
29:28But it makes sense.
29:29You're cute and you know how to talk.
29:31And she kept adding fuel to the fire.
29:33I almost choked on my own spit.
29:35I had no idea if that kind of thing actually worked on him now.
29:37But back then, he definitely fell for me.
29:39In the end, I still sent Julian my number.
29:41Got it.
29:42Almost the very next second, a message popped up in the chat.
29:44I stared at those two words and my scalp went numb.
29:46Because he still hadn't changed his profile picture.
29:48It was still the same one from before.
29:49It was one half of a couple profile picture I picked out randomly.
29:52I had deleted my account and run off long ago.
29:54I never thought he would still be using it.
29:56I had mixed feelings for a moment.
29:58Just as I was about to leave the chat, a new message popped up.
30:01Head home early tonight.
30:03Don't go anywhere else.
30:04I stared at the screen and almost thought I had read it wrong.
30:07That tone was exactly the same as when he used to boss me around online.
30:10But before I could reply, he sent another message.
30:13The materials should be submitted tomorrow.
30:15Before work ended, Chloe got a call from her mom and had to leave.
30:18You'll be fine going back by yourself, right?
30:20She said there were guests coming over tonight and her mom wanted her home early.
30:23Before she left, she still waved at me.
30:25I nodded.
30:25I couldn't wait for her to leave.
30:26Hopefully she wouldn't mention Julian again tonight.
30:28Come to the basement garage.
30:29But as I finished packing my things, my phone buzzed.
30:32I stared at that line for two seconds.
30:34Then I pretended I didn't see it.
30:38I don't want to say that again.
30:40Less than half a minute later, a second message came in.
30:43I closed my eyes and accepted my faith, then went downstairs.
30:47A black sedan was parked in the farthest spot.
30:51When the window rolled down, Julian turned his head and glanced at me.
30:54Get in.
30:55That won't be necessary.
30:56I can get back myself.
30:57You're staying at my place.
30:59Hearing that, he rested one hand on the wheel.
31:01His expression was calm.
31:02Is it really that much trouble for me to drive you back?
31:05One sentence completely shut me up.
31:07I had no choice but to open the car door and get in.
31:10The whole ride was quiet.
31:12Julian didn't speak, and I didn't dare say anything either.
31:15It wasn't until the car pulled into the underground garage that I realized we had arrived.
31:20I had just unbucketed my seatbelt and was about to get out when I saw Julian turn off the engine,
31:24too.
31:25I froze and turned to look at him.
31:26Why aren't you leaving?
31:27Who told you I was only driving you back?
31:30Forgot to tell you.
31:31I'm planning to move back into this apartment.
31:33I froze.
31:34What do you mean?
31:37I was going to tell you in a couple of days.
31:38He finally turned his face towards me, his gaze dark and heavy.
31:43Then I'll move out tomorrow.
31:44As soon as I said that, Julian suddenly smiled.
31:46But since you're asking today, I'll let you know early.
31:49The next second, he unbuckled his seatbelt and leaned toward me.
31:52The distance between us closed all at once.
31:55My whole body went stiff.
31:56Move where?
31:58He braced one hand beside me and looked down at me.
32:00Mara, you haven't found a place yet, right?
32:03I was trapped between him, the seat, and the car door.
32:06Even breathing felt a little hard.
32:08But Julian kept staring at me.
32:10That's my problem.
32:11I forced myself to turn my face away.
32:12Even my voice was tight.
32:13The next second, Julian pulled back a little,
32:15as if the moment when he leaned in had been my imagination.
32:17Fine.
32:18Then move out after you find a place.
32:19After that, he got out of the car first.
32:21I sat there for a long while, then finally followed him out.
32:24There were only the two of us in the elevator.
32:26The mirrored wall reflected my stiff face
32:28and his completely unaffected expression.
32:31After we entered the apartment,
32:33I hadn't even finished changing my shoes.
32:35Julian had already hung his coat by the entryway
32:36and walked straight inside.
32:38That just made me feel even worse.
32:39I had planned to pack my things tonight,
32:41but now that he had moved in,
32:42I suddenly didn't know what to do.
32:44There isn't much food in the fridge.
32:46When you order delivery, get one for me too.
32:48Why don't you order it yourself?
32:49Because you're already ordering.
32:51Just then, Julian suddenly turned back to look at me.
32:53I falls, then asked without thinking.
32:57I looked down.
32:58Sure enough, my phone was still open to a food delivery app.
33:02That night, when I came out after my shower,
33:05the living room light was still on.
33:06Julian was sitting on the couch,
33:08looking at his laptop.
33:09Two cuttons at the collar of his shirt were unded.
33:11His sleeves were rolled up to his forearms.
33:13Hearing the sound, he looked up at me,
33:15just one glance.
33:16But for some reason, my face felt a little hot.
33:18Unfortunately, I had picked the wrong pajamas tonight.
33:20I was wearing an oversized t-shirt and shorts.
33:22When I lived alone, I never thought anything of it.
33:24But now there was a man in the apartment.
33:26He was my online ex and my boss.
33:28I'm going back to my room.
33:30No matter how I think about it,
33:31I felt uncomfortable.
33:33Julian hummed in response,
33:35but his eyes didn't look away right away.
33:37His stare made me even more uneasy.
33:39I was just about to hurry away
33:41when I suddenly heard him ask,
33:42Were you always afraid of me?
33:44When I stopped, gave a hard thump.
33:46My steps stopped.
33:47For a second, I almost thought he had recognized me.
33:49But when I turned back to look,
33:50Julian's expression was the same as always,
33:52and his tone was calm.
33:53I forced a smile.
33:55You're my boss, after all.
33:57Is that so?
33:58Hearing that, his lips twitched.
34:00I couldn't tell what he meant by it.
34:02That made me feel guilty.
34:04I didn't dare say anything else.
34:05After I went back to my room,
34:06I locked the door behind me.
34:07Then I threw myself onto the bed.
34:09I felt like my head was about to explode.
34:11Had he recognized me or not?
34:12If he hadn't,
34:13then what were all these reactions supposed to mean?
34:15If he had,
34:15then why hadn't he exposed me yet?
34:17That night, I tossed and turned
34:18and couldn't fall asleep.
34:19In the middle of the night,
34:20I got thirsty and went out to get some water.
34:22But the living room light was still on.
34:24Julian wasn't asleep yet.
34:26He was standing in the open kitchen,
34:27holding a glass of ice water.
34:29Couldn't sleep?
34:30When he heard the footsteps,
34:31he turned to look at me.
34:32I froze for a second,
34:34then nodded.
34:35He didn't ask anything else.
34:36He just pushed another glass toward me.
34:38When I walked over to get some water,
34:40we stood a little too close.
34:41If I looked up,
34:42I could see the line of his jaw
34:44and the loose collar of his shirt.
34:47Mara,
34:48your voice is easy to recognize.
34:51I lied about my age
34:52and dated a man online
34:54who was seven years older than me.
34:55I never expected him to be so different.
34:57In real life,
34:58he was distant and cold,
35:00but online,
35:01he would say all kinds of dirty things.
35:03When he got turned on,
35:04he even said he wanted to be my dog.
35:06I couldn't handle how clingy he was.
35:08So on the day I broke up with him,
35:09I blocked him on everything.
35:11Later,
35:12the wiring in my apartment caught fire
35:13in the middle of the night.
35:14Don't worry.
35:15I know a place you can stay.
35:17When my best friend found out,
35:19she immediately moved me
35:20into an empty apartment
35:21owned by her uncle.
35:22Until the next day,
35:23she and I went to the company
35:24for our internship.
35:25The moment the conference room door opened,
35:27the man sitting at the head of the table
35:29looked up.
35:29That cold,
35:30world-wearied face
35:31looked more familiar
35:32the longer I stared at it.
35:33It's him.
35:34It's actually him.
35:37Don't look.
35:37My uncle hates it the most
35:38when people throw themselves at him,
35:39especially female interns.
35:41Ever since he got dumped
35:41by some girl he dated online,
35:42his temper's gotten even worse.
35:43Dumped by some girl he dated online?
35:45That girl is me.
35:47So,
35:47your uncle's name
35:48wouldn't be Julian Vey, right?
35:50No way!
35:51How do you know that?
35:53No way!
35:54How do you know that?
35:55If I still had even any hope
35:57when I asked that question,
35:58then now,
35:59it was completely dead.
36:00Not only had I dated
36:02my best friend's uncle online,
36:03but I also ran into him again
36:04after breaking up
36:05over half a year.
36:06The odds were ridiculously low.
36:08Before I could figure out
36:09how to explain,
36:10Right!
36:10I probably mentioned
36:11his name before.
36:12The moment I realized
36:13the apartment I was staying in
36:15belonged to Julian,
36:16my heart started racing
36:17for no reason.
36:18When Chloe handed me the keys,
36:19she only said it was a place
36:20her uncle barely used.
36:22At the time,
36:22I even thought I was lucky.
36:23Now it made my scalp tiggle.
36:25What shocked me even more
36:27was that Julian in person
36:28was nothing like his online self.
36:30His distant eyes swept over me
36:31without the slightest reaction.
36:32It was like I was just
36:33one of Chloe's classmates.
36:35I would never have connected
36:36a proper man like him
36:37with my online ex.
36:38Online,
36:39he was all dirty talk
36:39and insanely possessive.
36:41I never answered his video calls,
36:42never sent photos,
36:43and never even told him
36:44my real name.
36:45But somehow,
36:46he still made me blush
36:46every single day
36:47through a screen.
36:48How many times
36:49has your uncle dated before?
36:51Julian?
36:51Why are you asking about that?
36:54A serious relationship?
36:55I don't think he's had one.
36:57If anything,
36:57there was only that
36:58online relationship,
36:59and he seemed pretty serious about it.
37:01But that girl dumped him
37:02out of nowhere,
37:03then completely disappeared.
37:04No wonder his temper
37:05has gotten worse
37:06these past six months.
37:07Anyway,
37:07don't worry,
37:08he's just as difficult
37:09with everyone.
37:09After saying that,
37:10she patted me.
37:10Difficult with everyone,
37:12except apparently with me,
37:13online.
37:13At the morning meeting
37:14on my first day,
37:15Julian sat right in front of me.
37:17He was wearing a black shirt,
37:18the cuffs rolled up
37:19to his wrists.
37:20His fingers were long and lean,
37:21and he was expressionless
37:23as he flipped through the files,
37:24but I couldn't stop
37:25looking in his direction.
37:26The next second,
37:27as if he had sensed something,
37:29he suddenly looked up.
37:30His gaze landed
37:31straight on my face.
37:32My heart jumped.
37:35I immediately lowered my head,
37:36but even then,
37:37I could still feel it.
37:38His eyes stayed on me
37:40for several seconds.
37:41The new interns,
37:42introduce yourselves first.
37:43When it was my turn
37:44to stand up,
37:45even my voice stiffened a little.
37:47Mara,
37:48summer intern
37:49in the marketing department.
37:50I had always been good with words,
37:51so the rest of my intro
37:52went smoothly too.
37:54The people around me nodded.
37:55Only Julian didn't react.
37:57Someone like him
37:57probably wouldn't easily
37:59connect the real me
37:59with that online account.
38:01Mara.
38:01But over the next half hour,
38:03he called on me twice.
38:04They were normal work questions,
38:05but coming from him,
38:07they still made my palms tingle.
38:08Especially the last time.
38:10Julian leant back in his chair,
38:11his dark eyes
38:12sweeping over me calmly.
38:13Mara,
38:13you look nervous.
38:14Is this your first internship?
38:17A little.
38:18I forced out a smile.
38:19A few soft laughs
38:20sounded in the conference room.
38:21The mood seemed to loosen up a bit,
38:23but only I knew my nerves
38:24had nothing to do
38:24with the internship.
38:25After the meeting ended,
38:26Chloe was still sighing beside me.
38:28Oh no,
38:28Julian actually remembered your name.
38:29He usually can't even be bothered
38:30to recognize people.
38:31I didn't say anything,
38:32but the un-enus in my chest
38:33only grew stronger.
38:34At lunch,
38:35Chloe kept complaining to me
38:36about how hard Julian was to deal with,
38:38but I was only half listening.
38:39All I could think about
38:40was the way he had looked at me
38:41in the conference room.
38:42The more I thought about it,
38:44the more wrong it felt.
38:45So right after lunch,
38:46I started looking through rental apps.
38:47No matter what,
38:48I couldn't keep staying in that apartment.
38:50Even if Julian hadn't recognized me yet,
38:52that didn't mean he wouldn't later.
38:53But before I finished
38:54scrolling through apartments,
38:55a shadow suddenly fell over me.
38:57I looked up.
38:58Come to my office.
38:59Julian was standing beside my desk.
39:02My heart dropped,
39:03but I could only force myself to get up.
39:05As I followed him in,
39:07I was already brainstorming
39:08how to die with dignity
39:09if he called me out on the spot.
39:11Chloe will be working on this project as well.
39:13Take a look first.
39:13Julian placed a file on the desk.
39:15His voice was flat.
39:16I froze for a second.
39:17I just let out a breath of relief.
39:19I didn't expect it to actually be about work.
39:21Have you found a place to stay?
39:22When I heard him ask,
39:23my back stiffened.
39:24When I looked up at him,
39:25Julian had already sat back behind his desk.
39:27His expression was calm,
39:28as if he had just asked it casually.
39:30Not yet.
39:31But for some reason,
39:32it made me feel uneasy.
39:34After hesitating for two seconds,
39:35I still answered,
39:36Chloe said something happened to your old apartment.
39:38It's hard to find a new place on short notice.
39:41I nodded and didn't dare say much.
39:43Stay in that apartment for now.
39:44The next second,
39:45I heard him say calmly,
39:46I couldn't read anything in his dark eyes.
39:47It's close to the company.
39:48Easy commute.
39:49Moving around right now would be inefficient.
39:50No, thanks.
39:51I can handle it myself.
39:52But the problem was,
39:53it was his apartment.
39:54Julian looked at me for a moment,
39:56then suddenly gave a faint smile.
39:57Handle it how?
39:58By staying in a hotel?
39:59Or keep looking for a short-term rental?
40:02Mara,
40:02it's your first day as an intern,
40:03and you're already distracted.
40:04He stood up and leaned in toward me.
40:06My face felt a little warm,
40:07and I still hadn't figured out how to answer.
40:09You can leave.
40:10He had already looked down and opened the file.
40:12His tone turned cold again.
40:14Organize these materials
40:15and send them to me before tomorrow morning.
40:17I could only answer saltly.
40:18The whole Drenan bite leave.
40:20One more thing.
40:21As my hand just touched a doorknob,
40:22Send me your personal number.
40:23It'll be easier to reach you if something comes up.
40:25Julian looked at his computer screen.
40:31After I left his office,
40:32there was only one thought left in my head.
40:33I'm screwed.
40:34Had he already suspected me?
40:35But when I thought about it carefully,
40:37there was no proof.
40:38I had changed my number long ago.
40:39My social media accounts weren't the same ones either.
40:41Even the name I used when we dated online was fake.
40:43There was no way Julian could pin it on me this quickly.
40:46When I got back to my desk,
40:48Chloe was spinning in her chair and looking at me.
40:50Her face was full of gossip.
40:51I put the file down
40:52and tried to sound as natural as possible.
40:54What did Julian want with you alone?
40:57Work.
40:58He pulled you aside on the first day?
41:00Mara, you're done for.
41:01Chloe clicked her tongue,
41:02clearly not buying it.
41:03My mind was already a mess.
41:04Mara, you're done for.
41:05But it makes sense.
41:06You're cute,
41:07and you know how to talk.
41:08And she kept adding fuel to the fire.
41:10I almost choked on my own spit.
41:12I had no idea if that kind of thing
41:13actually worked on him now.
41:14But back then,
41:15he definitely fell for me.
41:16In the end,
41:17I still sent Julian my number.
41:18Got it.
41:19Almost the very next second,
41:20a message popped up in the chat.
41:21I stared at those two words,
41:22and my scalp went numb.
41:23Because he still hadn't changed his profile picture.
41:25It was still the same one from before.
41:27It was one half of a couple profile picture
41:28I picked out randomly.
41:29I had deleted my account and run off long ago.
41:31I never thought he would still be using it.
41:33I had mixed feelings for a moment.
41:35Just as I was about to leave the chat,
41:37a new message popped up.
41:39Head home early tonight.
41:40Don't go anywhere else.
41:41I stared at the screen
41:42and almost thought I had read it wrong.
41:44That tone was exactly the same
41:45as when he used to boss me around online.
41:47But before I could reply,
41:48he sent another message.
41:50The materials should be submitted tomorrow.
41:52Before work ended,
41:53Chloe got a call from her mom
41:54and had to leave.
41:55You'll be fine going back by yourself, right?
41:57She said there were guests coming over tonight
41:59and her mom wanted her home early.
42:00Before she left,
42:01she still waved at me.
42:02I nodded.
42:02I couldn't wait for her to leave.
42:04Hopefully she wouldn't mention Julian again tonight.
42:05Come to the basement garage.
42:07But as I finished packing my things,
42:08my phone buzzed.
42:09I stared at that line for two seconds.
42:11Then I pretended I didn't see it.
42:15I don't want to say that again.
42:17Less than half a minute later,
42:18a second message came in.
42:20I closed my eyes and accepted my faith,
42:22then went downstairs.
42:24A black sedan was parked in the farthest spot.
42:28When the window rolled down,
42:30Julian turned his head and glanced at me.
42:31Get in.
42:32That won't be necessary.
42:33I can get back myself.
42:35You're staying at my place.
42:36Hearing that,
42:37he rested one hand on the wheel.
42:38His expression was calm.
42:39Is it really that much trouble for me to drive you back?
42:42One sentence completely shut me up.
42:44I had no choice but to open the car door and get in.
42:47The whole ride was quiet.
42:49Julian didn't speak,
42:50and I didn't dare say anything either.
42:52It wasn't until the car pulled into the underground garage
42:55that I realized we had arrived.
42:57I had just unbucketed my seatbelt
42:59and was about to get out
43:00when I saw Julian turn off the engine too.
43:02I froze and turned to look at him.
43:03Why aren't you leaving?
43:04Who told you I was only driving you back?
43:07Forgot to tell you.
43:08I'm planning to move back into this apartment.
43:10I froze.
43:11What do you mean?
43:14I was going to tell you in a couple of days.
43:16He finally turned his face towards me,
43:18his gaze dark and heavy.
43:20Then I'll move out tomorrow.
43:21As soon as I said that,
43:22Julian suddenly smiled.
43:24But since you're asking today,
43:25I'll let you know early.
43:26The next second,
43:27he unbuckled his seatbelt and leaned toward me.
43:29The distance between us closed all at once.
43:32My whole body went stiff.
43:33Move where?
43:35He braced one hand beside me and looked down at me.
43:38Mara, you haven't found a place yet, right?
43:41I was trapped between him,
43:42the seat, and the car door.
43:43Even breathing felt a little hard,
43:45but Julian kept staring at me.
43:47That's my problem.
43:47I forced myself to turn my face away.
43:49Even my voice was tight.
43:50The next second,
43:51Julian pulled back a little,
43:52as if the moment when he leaned in
43:53had been my imagination.
43:54Fine.
43:55Then move out after you find a place.
43:56After that,
43:57he got out of the car first.
43:58I sat there for a long while,
43:59then finally followed him out.
44:01There were only the two of us in the elevator.
44:03The mirrored wall reflected my stiff face
44:05and his completely unaffected expression.
44:08After we entered the apartment,
44:10I hadn't even finished changing my shoes.
44:12Julian had already hung his coat by the entryway
44:14and walked straight inside.
44:15That just made me feel even worse.
44:16I had planned to pack my things tonight,
44:18but now that he had moved in,
44:19I suddenly didn't know what to do.
44:21There isn't much food in the fridge.
44:23When you order delivery,
44:24get one for me too.
44:25Why don't you order it yourself?
44:26Because you're already ordering.
44:28Just then,
44:29Julian suddenly turned back to look at me.
44:30I falls,
44:31then asked without thinking.
44:34I looked down.
44:35Sure enough,
44:36my phone was still open to a food delivery app.
44:40That night,
44:40when I came out.