Anya, Lena, and the mysterious man settled into Julian's mansion, grateful for the temporary reprieve from the Shadow Court's pursuit. As they rested, Anya couldn't help but notice Julian's chiseled features and piercing eyes. She felt a flutter in her chest, but quickly suppressed it, focusing on the danger that still lurked outside.
Julian, meanwhile, seemed to be watching her with equal interest, his gaze lingering on her face. Anya wondered if she was just imagining it, but the mysterious man's subtle nod suggested otherwise.
As the night wore on, Anya began to notice strange noises coming from the mansion's lower floors. Footsteps echoed through the corridors, and whispers seemed to emanate from the shadows.
"What's going on?" Anya asked Julian, her voice low.
Julian's smile faltered for a moment before he regained his composure. "Just the staff, preparing for the night. Don't mind them."
Anya wasn't convinced. She sensed that something more was at play, something Julian wasn't telling her.
The mysterious man seemed to sense her unease, his eyes locked on Julian's face. "We'll be careful, Anya," he said softly. "For now, let's focus on staying safe."
As the night drew to a close, Anya retired to her room, her mind racing with questions. What secrets was Julian hiding? And what was it with those strange noises .