Chapter 6 Encounter

Isabella hesitated, her gaze fixed on the road ahead without uttering a word. Julian chuckled condescendingly. One hand on the steering wheel, he playfully tousled Isabella's hair with the other, saying dismissively, "Come on, if you have something to say, just spit it out. Why the formalities between us?" His years navigating the treacherous waters of business and politics hadn't been in vain. He could read the slightest shift in anyone's thoughts, let alone Isabella, whom he'd known since childhood.

Julian's eyes narrowed to slits, his gaze nonchalantly fixed on the road, seemingly waiting for Isabella's response.

Isabella appeared distant, her lips pressed together as if debating internally—should she speak or not?

The night's shadows painted an alluring darkness within the car. Periodically, the iridescent lights from outside would streak across Julian's inscrutable face, casting it in an even more imposing and enigmatic light.

Seeming to make up her mind, Isabella suddenly smiled, revealing her pearly teeth, and languidly responded, “Julian, do you truly want to help me? Without any regrets?" Her lightly made-up eyes curved slightly upwards. It was the same face, but the vibe had changed. The air of composure was replaced by a hint of arrogance.

"What's it about?" They stopped at a red light. Julian pulled out an unbranded cigarette case, drawing a cigarette and placing it nonchalantly between his lips. He didn't light it, but the audacious posture, especially in the dim light, was incredibly seductive.

Isabella turned her head to gaze out of the window, her eyes taking in the colorful neon lights of the cityscape. After a prolonged silence, she spoke softly, "Julian, I want Ethan Hart. Help me get him." There was a strangely inappropriate determination in her voice at that moment. Perhaps because she didn't love or desire anyone else. Only Ethan Hart mattered to her.

Julian's elongated, deep-set eyes lifted with intrigue, a smirk playing on his lips. "Well, pursuing women is something I'm good at. But chasing after a man? That's not within my expertise. You've truly stumped me this time," he replied ambiguously, neither agreeing nor refusing. Julian Sterling did things as he pleased, not allowing anyone to dictate his actions, not even friends or family, unless he chose it so.

Isabella's lips curled into a smile, she took a shallow breath and responded, "Are you mocking me? Is there anything in this world that can truly confound you?" She paused briefly before continuing, "How about just being my backing? Supporting me will do." With Julian's silent approval, things would be much simpler. In the capital, his word was even more authoritative than a royal decree.

"Oh?" Julian intoned teasingly, a playful grin on his face. "Alright then, I'll be watching."

Claiming her spirits were down, Isabella insisted on joining Julian for an evening out. As they stepped into the exclusive suite of the top-tier club, Lucas Hartley's sharp eyes spotted them, welcoming them warmly, "Why are you so late?" Spotting Isabella trailing behind Julian, he added with a meaningful tone, "Oh! Isabella, you're here too!"

"Cut the crap," Isabella retorted with an annoyed glare. "What? Am I not allowed?"

Lucas, feigning innocence, waved his hands defensively, "Who am I to stop you? Come on in; everyone's waiting for you two to host tonight's midnight round."

Julian, ignoring their odd exchange, stepped into the lounge. The clattering of mahjong tiles echoed throughout the hall, bathed in the brilliant lights, giving the room a lively atmosphere. Striding on the plush white carpet, Julian arrogantly surveyed the attendees, rolling up his sleeves and commenting coolly, "Quite bold of you all, starting without waiting for me. Let's see how I'll deal with you later."

Ethan Hart's challenging voice rang out from a table by the window, "Enough talking! Come over here. Who's afraid of whom?"

Dylan Hayes gave a triumphant whistle, smirking, "Ethan Hart, our luckiest guy's here. Let's see how long you can keep that grin on."

Lucas Hartley chimed in, "Absolutely! He was so ruthless last time that he almost cost me a car."

There was a murmur of agreement among the men and women present, anticipating a spectacle.

Julian Sterling's gaze swept across the room. But instead of looking at Ethan, his attention settled on the woman beside him. She leaned close to Ethan, her raven-black hair cascading down to her waist in a lustrous flow. Her off-shoulder azure dress made her porcelain skin look even more radiant. But it was her eyes that truly stood out - so clear and bright that they captured one's attention instantly.