Lily got dressed and headed downstairs to the dining room, where Rachel had informed her that breakfast was ready. As she sat down at the table, she noticed that Julian wasn't there.
"Where's Julian?" Lily asked Rachel, who was pouring her a cup of coffee.
"Mr. Julian had to go out early this morning," Rachel replied. "He left a note for you, though."
Lily's curiosity was piqued as she took the note from Rachel. She unfolded it and read the message scrawled in Julian's handwriting:
"Good morning, Lily. Sorry I had to leave early. I'll be back later. Enjoy your day. -J"
Lily felt a bit disappointed that Julian had already left, but she tried to shake off the feeling. She focused on her breakfast instead, enjoying the delicious food and the quiet morning.
As she ate, Lily couldn't help but wonder where Julian had gone. Was it business or pleasure? And what was so important that he had to leave early?
"Rachel, do you know where Mr. Julian went?" Lily asked, trying to sound casual.
Rachel hesitated for a moment before responding. "I'm not sure, miss. Mr. Julian didn't say. But he seemed a bit... preoccupied this morning."
Lily's curiosity was piqued. What could be bothering Julian? And why did Rachel seem hesitant to talk about it?
Lily finished her breakfast and decided to head out to the garden to get some fresh air and continue reading her novel. The sun was shining, and the flowers were in full bloom, filling the air with their sweet fragrance.
As she walked through the garden, Lily felt a sense of peace wash over her. She found a comfortable spot under a large oak tree and settled in with her book.
The words on the page came alive as she read, transporting her to a different world. Lily became so engrossed in the story that she lost track of time.
As she read, she heard the sound of birds chirping and the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. The warm sun on her skin felt wonderful, and she felt her worries melting away.
After a while, Lily decided to take a break and walk around the garden. She strolled along the winding paths, admiring the beautiful flowers and trees. The garden was meticulously maintained, and Lily couldn't help but wonder who took care of it.
As she walked, she noticed a small pond in the distance. She walked towards it, enjoying the sound of the water gently rippling over the rocks. The pond was surrounded by lily pads, and a few fish swam lazily in the water.
Lily sat down on a nearby bench, taking in the serene atmosphere. She felt grateful for this moment of peace and quiet, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
As Lily headed back inside, she noticed that Julian had returned. He was standing in the foyer, talking to Rachel. He looked up and caught her eye, smiling briefly before returning his attention to Rachel.
Lily felt a flutter in her chest as she approached them. "Hi," she said, trying to sound casual.
Julian turned to her, his expression neutral. "Hi, Lily. Enjoy your morning?"
Lily nodded, feeling a bit self-conscious. "Yes, thanks. The garden is beautiful."
Julian nodded. "I'm glad you like it. Rachel, can you see to it that Lily's lunch is prepared?"
Rachel nodded and headed off towards the kitchen. Julian turned to Lily. "I have some work to attend to. I'll be in my study if you need me."
Lily nodded, feeling a bit dismissed. "Okay."
As Julian turned to leave, Lily called out to him. "Julian?"
He turned back to her, his eyes questioning. "Yes?"
Lily hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Do you have any plans for today? I was thinking of exploring the city."
Julian's expression was thoughtful. "I have a few things to take care of, but you're free to go out whenever you like. Marcus can drive you if you'd like."
Lily smiled, feeling a bit grateful for the offer. "Thanks, that would be great."
Lily felt a pang of disappointment at Julian's dismissive tone. She had been hoping to spend some time with him, but it seemed like he was busy.
"Okay, thanks," Lily said, trying to sound nonchalant. "I think I'll just stay back and read some more."
Julian nodded, his expression unreadable. "Suit yourself. If you need anything, just let Rachel know."
With that, he turned and walked away, leaving Lily feeling a bit deflated. She watched him go, wondering what had caused him to be so distant.
As she turned to head back to the library, Lily couldn't help but feel a bit frustrated. She had been looking forward to spending time with Julian, but it seemed like he was pushing her away.
Lily sighed and settled back into the library, trying to focus on her book. But her mind kept wandering back to Julian and their conversation.
As she read, Lily couldn't help but wonder what was going on in Julian's mind. Was he really that busy, or was he just avoiding her?
Lily was still reading in the library when she heard the sound of voices coming from the foyer. She looked up to see Julian greeting some visitors.
As she watched, a tall, imposing figure emerged from behind Julian. He was an older man with a stern expression, and Lily could tell that he was related to Julian. They shared a similar facial structure and piercing gaze.
"Uncle Richard," Julian said, his tone formal. "What brings you here?"
Richard's gaze swept the room, his eyes lingering on Lily before returning to Julian. "I came to discuss some business with you, Julian. But I see you're still entertaining your... guest."
Lily felt a surge of discomfort under Richard's scrutiny. She didn't like the way he looked at her, like she was some kind of possession or curiosity.
Julian's expression remained neutral, but Lily could sense a tension between him and his uncle. "Let's talk in my study, Uncle Richard," Julian said, gesturing towards the door.
As they left, Lily couldn't help but wonder what kind of business Richard wanted to discuss with Julian. And what was his relationship with Julian like?