Give Daphne a chance.

Back in their room, Esme emerged from the bathroom. A jolt of surprise shot through her as she saw Julian's name flashing on the screen. Her eyes darted towards the closed door.

A small sigh escaped her lips.

Thankfully, Silas was still in the study. Taking the phone, she stepped onto the spacious porch, the cool night breeze carrying the sweet scent of jasmine. Settling into a plush armchair tucked away in the corner, she answered the call.

"Hello?"

"Esme!" Julian's voice was laced with raw desperation.

The words 'I miss you so much; please come back' threatened to spill from his lips, but he held them back.

"How are you? Is Silas taking good care of you? Are you having any problems?"

Esme could practically feel Julian's anxiety. Esme could sense his anxiety. She knew he was struggling to move on – stuck in a past that could never return. Julian still clung to a love that had slipped through his fingers.