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.

class reunion. We’re all doing so well, and

gently back into her

sat down, planning to

to Joycelyn. You two were

into the seat

desk mate, Joycelyn remembered that he was quite introverted. During the year they sat together, they barely

his role in

a striking difference: he wore a Rolex worth over

1/3

Chapter 72

bought a gift for Ellison at the store.

you do now?”

uneasy. He kept

Which company do you

shaking

just didn’t like to share details about his work, likely a person

turned her attention back to chatting with Lucy.

of boasting and comparisons between the classmates. The women especially

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

others kept pouring drinks for Liam, with increasingly

herself, claiming she needed to use the restroom, hoping

nudged Caroline, signaling for her to act.

sent

Joycelyn was texting Ellison, she was stopped

called, hurrying up behind

turned around, “What’s

don’t mind,” Liam said, looking nervous

knew I was accepting gifts from other men, he’d be upset,” Joycelyn replied bluntly, refusing the offer.

I had a fever before my exams? You bought me some