Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

The second group to arrive was Nick, Robert, and Irene. As soon as the door opened, Julian was greeted by Robert's overly enthusiastic face.

"Ta-da... surprise!" Robert exclaimed, holding a massive cake in his hands.

Julian frowned. "It's New Year's, and you brought a cake? Did something scramble your brain?"

"Bringing supplements or whatever would be boring. This is a specially ordered cake. I guarantee you'll be shocked when you see it," Robert declared proudly.

Looking at the lively and eccentric Robert, Julian couldn't help but wonder how he and Nick could be brothers. The two were polar opposites, as different as night and day.

Nick's face was cold, as though he were owed millions of dollars. He seemed much more composed, handing Julian a paper box.

"Happy New Year," Nick said curtly.

Julian glanced at him and felt like he wasn't celebrating New Year's but instead hosting someone on a solemn occasion.

"It's good that you came," Julian replied as he accepted the gift.

Irene, meanwhile, seemed unusually quiet and well-behaved. Julian's gaze shifted between her and Nick, wondering what might have happened between them this time.

"It's cold outside. Come in," Julian said, brushing off his thoughts. Whatever was going on with them was none of his business. Love was a matter no outsider could meddle in.

Julian welcomed them inside. Robert, ever the chatterbox, immediately started looking around. "So this is your love nest? Why is it so small? It's not your style at all."

The beachside villa was modest compared to Julian's usual living standards. Except for Asher, no friends had visited before.

times bigger than this one. It had a swimming pool, a tennis court, and various other amenities. But back then, in his pursuit of Aurora, he had resolutely moved next door to her.

so much joy that he never once minded how small this house was. Every day, his

man," Julian said bluntly. "Once you have a

Big deal!" Robert retorted, his lively energy shining through. Despite his cheerful demeanor, his head was always buried in medical

keep each other company.

cooking, he would undoubtedly have stormed

people arriving, the villa quickly became lively. Robert, like a spinning

trouble you today. Who's that

He's here to help

quipped, mispronouncing

spatula?" Asher threatened, waving it in the air. "Alright, stop messing around. Julian, take the guests to

you're loving the book, nel5s.com is where the adventure continues. Join us for the complete experience-all for free. The next chapter is eagerly waiting for you! "Sure," Julian replied obediently.

Irene appeared at the kitchen door.

you're here,"

you need help? You look pretty busy,"

Who knew if culinary incompetence ran in his family? She quickly shook her head. "No

Irene not only knew how to cook but was exceptionally skilled at it. Otherwise, how

You look overwhelmed. Let me help," Irene said, putting on an apron. The moment she started slicing and dicing,

how are you so good at cooking?" Aurora asked in amazement. Her own skills were at best beginner to intermediate. Her food wasn't terrible, but it wasn't particularly impressive either-just

evident. She didn't seem like the type to be so skilled

"I've had my share of hard times. In

Irene's glamorous

better left untouched, and Aurora wasn't foolish enough

it was Denis, arriving with cold air clinging to him. His expression was