She stared at the phone that was in his hands, her thoughts completely disoriented before she looked up at him.
"And why would you want to help me escape?" Anastasia's voice trembled, but her words carried weight. Her sharp gaze locked onto Julian. "You're involved in this illegal business. You're Xander's friend, so why are you helping me find freedom from here?"
Julian froze, the confidence in his posture faltering for a brief moment. He opened his mouth to speak but closed it again, realizing he had no immediate answer that wouldn't raise more questions.
"I have my reasons," he finally said, his voice quieter, almost reluctant. "Reasons that don't concern Xander or this business. Let's just say... I've done things I regret, and helping you might be the only way I can live with myself."
Anastasia remained silent, her expression unreadable, though her hands slowly clenched into fists.
