Chapter 6 - The Unannounced Arrival
In mid-November, the sound of a luxury sedan’s engine broke the serenity of the quiet coastal lane. Bella walked out onto the porch with Leo resting on her hip to find Julian stepping out of the vehicle.
He wore a simple charcoal overcoat, without his customary cufflinks or boardroom armor. He looked thinner, the lines around his eyes deeper than before.
"Victoria told your attorney that visits must be arranged two weeks in advance," Bella said coldly, keeping a firm distance.
"I didn't come with lawyers, Bella," Julian said, his voice unusually raw. "I drove up myself. I just wanted to see him. Five minutes. Here on the porch. I won't step inside."
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Bella studied his face. She saw no arrogance, only a desperate humility that Julian Sterling had never displayed in all their six years together. She took a step closer, angling Leo outward.
Leo blinked at the tall stranger, then let out a soft gurgle. Julian’s breath caught in his throat. He slowly lifted one finger, letting Leo wrap his tiny hand around it. A single tear rolled down Julian's cheek, disappearing into his dark stubble.
