"How did you get here so quickly?"
Just as Julian was about to answer, his eyes dropped briefly to Lina's bathrobe. She had wrapped it around herself rather carelessly, leaving a small glimpse of her fair chest visible above the collar.
Julian immediately looked away.
He cleared his throat and forced his voice to remain steady.
"I happened to be nearby. I came over as soon as we finished the call. Lina, go and take your shower. Don't catch a cold standing around dressed like that."
He was not merely passing by.
He had been downstairs the entire time.
Lina nodded without thinking too much about it.
"Then I'll shower first. There's fruit in the fridge and some snacks in the cupboard, so help yourself. If you get bored, turn on the television. I'll be out in a little while."
The way she spoke made Julian feel as though she were giving instructions to a younger brother who had come to visit.
He smiled helplessly.
"Alright."
Lina turned and headed towards the bathroom.
