Chapter 16
After speaking with Phoenix’s father on the phone, Julian couldn’t get any answers but was certain Phoenix was with him.
With this general direction, finding her became easier.
Before long, Julian discovered Phoenix’s whereabouts.
Julian wanted to bring meaningful mementos to win Phoenix back, but the empty house contained nothing.
Julian realized how extreme his behavior had been. He hadn’t even noticed Phoenix removing so many belongings. After years of marriage, he couldn’t even find a single photograph of them together outside the house.
Julian located the university where Phoenix now studied.
In recent days, Julian had visibly deteriorated. Clutching flowers, he stared at the campus gates, mentally rehearsing what he would say to Phoenix before entering.
“Is the Art Department exhibition ready?”
“I heard Mason Winters from Biology is there too.”
“He’s pursuing Phoenix, right? I see him heading to the Arts building often.”
Julian overheard passing students as he walked by.
Though he initially ignored them, he caught “Phoenix” and immediately turned around, stopping the students.
“Excuse me, did you mention Phoenix? Where is she?” The urgency in his voice was unmistakable.
The students, startled by his strange behavior, ignored him and continued walking.
Julian followed them without thinking.
The Art Department building was surrounded by students. Julian tried to see what was happening in the center but couldn’t get through.
With effort, he pushed his way in, only to find Phoenix and Mason at the center of attention.
Julian spotted the man supporting Phoenix’s waist, helping her maintain balance.
Phoenix stood on a ladder hanging artwork, showing no discomfort at Mason’s touch.
That hand on her waist infuriated Julian. He threw his bouquet to the ground and lunged at Mason, grabbing his collar and landing a punch on his face.
Everyone watching was shocked.
The ladder wobbled dangerously as Phoenix clung to it, terrified.
Chapter 16
Mason, ignoring Julian, quickly helped Phoenix down.
Once she was safely on the ground, Mason retaliated with a punch that sent Julian sprawling.
Julian wasn’t as young as Mason and had been deteriorating recently. Mason’s blow knocked him to the floor.
Julian struggled to stand. Mason wiped blood from his lip and was about to strike again when Phoenix stopped him.
Julian saw Phoenix and stumbled to his feet, turning to retrieve the flowers he’d brought.
Mason, still confused by the situation, noticed Phoenix’s look of utter disgust at Julian and quickly positioned himself between
them.
“Baby, flowers for you.”
Julian shuffled forward, offering the flowers to Phoenix.
Phoenix deliberately avoided him, pulling Mason away.
“Baby, I’m sorry. Forgive me, baby.”
Julian tried to grab Phoenix, but Mason shoved him to the ground.
Phoenix didn’t even glance at Julian as she led Mason away.
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Chapter 17
Chapter 17
