Viya's POV
I looked up to see Julian standing nearby. My mood instantly brightened, and I set down my fork.
"Julian! Are you eating here too?" I asked, genuinely pleased to see him.
"I was just passing by and saw you both. Thought I'd say hello," Julian explained with his usual warm smile.
He didn't seem surprised to see me with Caesar.
"Would you like to join us?" I offered.
"I'd love to," Julian accepted with a smile.
I immediately felt more at ease with Julian present.
After all, Caesar had helped raise me, and with things having grown so distant between us over the years, I still felt somewhat uncomfortable when I was alone with him.
Then Caesar's phone rang, and he stood with characteristic restraint. "I need to take this call."
"Of course," I responded
