Chapter 38
Julia POV As I waited in line at the bakery, the comforting smell of fresh bread and coffee did little to ease the tightness in my chest. I distracted myself by scrolling through my phone, willing my emotions to settle before I returned home to Ethan. Just as I was collecting my croissant and coffee from the counter, a voice behind me made me stiffen. “Julia? Hey, are you alright?” I turned to find Cody standing a few feet away, his expression painted with concern. He looked as if he’d just arrived, though I couldn’t shake the feeling he’d been watching me for a while. Forcing a polite smile, I replied, “Oh, hi, Cody. I’m fine—just a long shift, that’s all.” I tried to sound casual, masking the lingering ache from my encounter with Lila. But Cody didn’t seem convinced. He stepped a litt
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