PENELOPE'S POV

My door was slightly open when I got to it. I hesitated for a moment, trying to figure out who had that scent.

I gently pushed it open and spotted Julian at the edge of my desk. He rose immediately, locking his hands behind him.

“I wasn't sure if I should wait any longer. Glad I did,”

I closed the door and stood by it, waiting to hear anymore of what he had to say. But no other word was uttered, just his eyes doing the pleading and rest of the talking.

“Why are ...