A family divided

The silence in the room was deafening. Julian's parents looked at each other, their faces reflecting their shock and disbelief. Emily's eyes were fixed on Julian, her expression a mix of surprise and curiosity.

Finally, Julian's mother spoke up, her voice barely above a whisper. "Julian, are you sure about this?"

Julian's eyes narrowed, his face still hard and expressionless. "Yes, Mother. I'm positive. I want to marry Emily, and that's final."

His parents exchanged a nervous glance, then nodded in unison. "Yes, Julian. Whatever you want."

But Julian's face didn't soften. He didn't acknowledge his father's agreement, only nodding slightly at his mother. It was clear that he only respected her, not his father.

His father, trying to appease him, added, "We just want you to be happy, son." But Julian didn't even glance at him.

The room fell silent again, with everyone nodding in acceptance. Emily's eyes never left Julian's face, her expression a mix of wonder and excitement.

As the scene unfolded, it was clear that Julian was the one in control. His parents didn't dare to argue with him, and Emily was captivated by his confidence and determination. But Julian's hard exterior hid a deeper pain, a wound that only his mother knew about.

The question was, what would happen next in this complicated web of relationships? Would Julian's icy heart thaw, or would he continue to shut out those around him?