Chapter Twenty-Eight

THE SCENT OF fresh paint and new cabinets permeated the living room. Grateful for her connections, and Dale Miller’s understanding, Julia admired the repairs to Nüwa’s home. Other than the large sheet of plywood still in place while they waited for a new sliding door, the only physical reminders of the horrific experience with Martin that remained was the small yellowing bruise on Julia’s jaw and the healing line of the cut on her shoulder. The internal reminders would be there a lifetime. Julia chewed her lip as she listened, casting a glance at the clock on the stove, mindful of their appointment with Dr. Henderson later in the day.

Julia perched on the couch in the family room across from Lian. The overhead lights threw harsh shadows across her face as she crossed her legs. Her fingertips kept a steady rhythm on the arm of the chair as she listened to Nüwa retell what had happened to them.

Nüwa’s voice was strong and even. Julia’s heart squeezed tight when Nüwa recounted the way she had saved Julia.

Lian’s cool expression as Nüwa explained the events and what had transpired with Martin defied belief. Gerald had leaned forward in his chair, his arms resting on his knees. His gaze flitted back and forth between Lian and Nüwa. At times he had paced the room before returning to his chair. Julia tensed, waiting for Lian to react. To speak.

“And then I called you.” Nüwa clasped Julia’s hand and urged her to sit back on the couch. Julia scooted back to sit next to Nüwa. Their thighs touched, the sensation grounding. Her warm grip was solid and affirming. Nüwa released her hand, lifted her arm, and settled it around Julia’s shoulders.

Lian’s left eyebrow lifted. “Why?”

“Why what?” Nüwa frowned.

“Why did you save her? You could have escaped easily.” Lian lifted her chin, indicating Julia.

“Lian!” Gerald exploded out of his chair. “Our daughter has been through hell and back while we were gone, and this is what you ask?”

“I didn’t ask you.” Lian’s gaze settled on Nüwa and Julia.

Nüwa’s arm tightened around Julia. “Why wouldn’t I? And why does anyone want anyone? She’s a brilliant artist, clever, sexy as hell, and kind. Devoted to her family. And she believes me, believes in me.”

Julia’s face burned with Nüwa’s words.

Lian’s gaze fixed on Julia. “And you? Why did you taunt him? Encourage him to chase you? Why were you willing to sacrifice yourself for my daughter?”

Julia grasped Nüwa’s other hand and laced their fingers together. “She understands me. Understands family, and all it means. She’s gorgeous, intelligent, appreciative of everything. When I’m with her, I feel like anything is possible. She lights me up from the inside.”

Lian pursed her lips and turned to Gerald. “You knew about this? Encouraged them?”

“Yes.” Gerald lifted his chin and squared himself to face Lian.

“Well done.” Lian stood and walked into the kitchen. She pulled a large pot from the cabinet. She placed it in the sink and turned the tap to fill it. Lian turned her head and pinned Julia in place with her gaze. “We have family dinner at four on Sundays. Don’t be late.”