Elena's POV
As the evening wound down, Julian's mother stood and smoothed her dress. "Well, it's getting late. I should let you two get home."
Julian rose as well, offering me his arm. "Thank you for coming tonight. I know it wasn't easy."
I smiled, slipping my hand into his. "It was... something new. Different."
His mother gave me a polite nod, but I caught the faintest hint of reservation in her eyes.
Outside, the cool night air felt like a fresh start, but inside, I couldn't shake the feeling that the real test was just beginning.
Julian squeezed my hand gently. "Tomorrow's a new day."
I nodded, hoping tomorrow would be kinder to us both.
The moment the door clicked shut behind me, Julian's mother let out a slow breath, her smile fading.
"She's... different," she said quietly, folding her hands. "Not quite what I expected."
Julian frowned, crossing his arms. "Mom, she's been through a lot. Give her a chance."
