Chapter 4

I don't know how long I walked until a gentle voice called from behind me.

"Audrey?"

I turned.

Julian Hayes. Liam's college roommate.

We were in the same student club when we first started university.

Since we both loved literature, we were pretty good friends.

But after I started dating Liam, Julian and I deliberately kept our distance, and we gradually lost touch.

"It really is you." He hurried down the steps. "Long time no see."

"I remember you, Liam's college roommate," I habitually tied him to Liam's name, avoiding eye contact. "What are you doing here?"

"I'm an assistant professor in the Economics department now."

He lowered his gaze.

"You? Back to pick up documents?"

I nodded, suddenly feeling a lump in my throat.

Julian subtly noticed my emotions but didn't ask further.

He glanced at his watch. "Want to grab a coffee?"

I hesitated. "Okay."

"I heard you're going abroad for advanced studies?" he asked directly.

I was surprised. "How did you know?"

"Professor Davies mentioned it." He pushed up his glasses.

"He regretted that you were leaving, said you could have stayed to do your PhD here."

I looked down, stirring my coffee. "Some things... I need a change of scenery."

Julian didn't press. Instead, he took a folder from his bag.

"Here's some information I compiled on a few schools. Considering your research focus, I think these might suit you."

I opened the folder. Inside were not just detailed introductions to the universities, but also the strengths of each economics department, professor information, and even estimated living costs in those areas.

"This... this is so thorough." I looked up at him. "When did you prepare all this?"

"I started gathering it when I heard you were going abroad,"

he said calmly.

"After all, I spent a few years overseas, so I have some experience to share."

We talked for a long time.

Julian didn't ask a single question about Liam.

He just meticulously analyzed the pros and cons of each university, even mentioning a few projects that I'd never considered but were perfect for me.

"If you need a letter of recommendation," he said as we were leaving, "I'd be happy to help."

I hesitated. "Can I... get your contact information?"

Julian took a business card from his pocket.

"This is my work email and phone number. Feel free to contact me anytime if you have questions."

"My name is Julian Hayes."

His manner was polite and restrained, maintaining just the right amount of distance.

I nodded, not mentioning that I actually remembered his name. "Got it."

By the time we left the coffee shop, it was already dark.

"Audrey," Julian suddenly called out to me.

"No matter what you decide, remember to live for yourself."

I knew he'd seen it.

He'd seen Liam and me.

"I know."

My reply was soft, almost lost in the wind.