Ellison And Joycelyn: A Love Beyond The Rules

Chapter 72

After Joycelyn spoke, she noticed Tenley’s face darken immediately.

She gave a soft smile, as if her previous sharp words had just been a joke.

After all, when someone makes things difficult for her, there’s no need to be too concerned with saving face.

“Joycelyn, what’s that supposed to mean? Who are you disgusted with?” Tenley’s voice immediately rose, full of anger.

“Isn’t that the case?” Lucy chimed in, unafraid of Tenley’s fury.

The tension in the air thickened, and the other guests started to intervene.

“Come on, everyone, we’re all old classmates here, let’s keep things civil. This is the teacher’s birthday party, after all. Both of you beautiful ladies, please cool down.”

“Yes, let’s all sit down and wait for dinner to start.”

Two classmates, known for livening up the atmosphere, quickly stepped in to smooth things over, trying to divert attention away from the conflict.

“Looks like the teacher won’t be coming today, he’s feeling a bit under the weather. My gift’s already been delivered, so I’ll let

you

all enjoy the evening.” Joycelyn placed her gift with the others and, not wanting to linger, made her way towards the door.

Caroline nudged Tenley and gave her a look.

Though Tenley still looked displeased, she responded, “Joycelyn, I was too brash earlier. I truly hope you’re doing well, and I apologize. Let me toast to you with the first drink.”

Tenley, without hesitation, picked up a glass of wine and drank it in one go.

Joycelyn was skeptical. Something about this seemed off.

said, “Oh, it’s just an old class reunion. We’re all doing so well, and I really hope you’re doing well too. The teacher’s at the hospital getting his blood pressure checked, so let’s start eating.”

gently back into

sat down,

next to Joycelyn. You two were desk

pulling Liam into the seat

quite introverted. During the year they sat together, they barely exchanged a word, other than asking

it wasn’t for her curiosity about his role in Ruby’s

he wore a Rolex worth over 150 thousand

1/3

Chapter 72

this watch before when she bought a gift for

you do now?” she asked casually.

kept his eyes fixed

you

really say,” Liam replied, shaking his

didn’t like to share details about his work, likely a person who preferred to keep to himself. So,

her attention back to chatting with Lucy.

there was plenty of boasting and comparisons between the classmates. The women especially were showing

ate quietly, Lucy, being a saleswoman, had no trouble chatting with everyone and seemed to be getting along well with the group.

pouring drinks for

felt a bit overwhelming to Joycelyn, so she got up to excuse herself,

nudged Caroline, signaling

already sent the photos.

texting Ellison, she was

wait,” Liam called, hurrying

and turned around, “What’s

something for you. I hope you don’t mind,” Liam said, looking nervous as he pulled a small box from

accept your gift. It’s not appropriate. I’m married. If my husband knew I was accepting gifts

my exams? You bought me some