Chapter 18

Chapter 18:

Bryan was engrossed in conversation within the pavilion, surrounded by friends—a setting where Eileen typically remained at his beck and call. But today, Eileen decided to keep her distance and settled herself at a spot near the pavilion.

After the grilling was done, she gathered a plateful of food and approached the pavilion, offering it to Bryan and his companions. Jacob caught sight of her and gestured invitingly. “Miss Curtis, come join us. It’s rather dull without you; we could use the company,” he said.

Eileen offered a polite smile in return. “I appreciate the offer, but I’ll just eat something with my colleagues later.”

No sooner had she declined than Vivian approached, gently tugging her into a seat beside Jacob. With Jacob to her left, Kian to her right, and Bryan directly in front of her, Eileen felt ensnared, unsure of what to say.

“Kian, it just hit me! That game you love was crafted by Eileen’s boyfriend,” Vivian announced, steering the focus onto Eileen. “On our way here, we overheard her chatting with him. He’s the kind who’s liberal with gifts in the game, indicative of a thoughtful nature. Maybe not as wealthy as you, but he’s certainly considerate.”

Seated there, Eileen was on edge, feeling Bryan’s intense stare as if it were a tangible force. If it weren’t for the earlier incident with the hickey, she would have explained that Huey was her boyfriend.

Jacob retrieved his phone. “Are you talking about this game?” he inquired.

With a glance, Eileen responded, “That’s the one.”

Jacob, in a light-hearted manner, said, “Well then, I must meet your boyfriend. I enjoy the game. Don’t worry; I have no interest in whisking him away. I’d just like to chat about the game with him.”

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Eileen just smiled. “Jacob, you’re jesting. He’s younger and doesn’t share your wealth. You’d be at odds. There’s no need for you two to meet.”

Jacob couldn’t resist a tease. “Seems you’re quick to shield him. It’s amusing how a mere mention of your boyfriend stirs you up. You’re like Vivian.”

was her only retort, polite yet firm

good until it became mainstream. Given Eileen’s boyfriend developed it, why not let her introduce him to us? Perhaps we’ll start playing regularly again. How

a picture of nonchalance, his gaze briefly touching Eileen. “That’s up to Eileen,”

her mistake. Despite his unilateral decision to block Huey, he still tried to make things

promptly sharing his contact with Jacob. Her actions were swift. Bryan lifted his brow in

he’s added me, I’ll start a group chat.

phone suddenly rang. With a courteous nod to the group, she

of questions flooded in, his voice laced with confusion and frustration. “Why was I blocked? What’s the issue? You haven’t even met me, and you’ve decided already?

racing. With a polite gesture to some colleagues, she found a private

He said he was a loyal fan of my game. The gifts from me can also help

my boss. He’s quite wealthy. He doesn’t need your

that Jacob and the others were indifferent to Huey’s virtual offerings, capable of purchasing an array of his games without a

pride swelling in his words. His speech was cut short by an interruption from

heard Huey’s attempts at hushing him, to no avail.

Eileen. She was about to leave when she noticed Kian guiding Vivian her way. From her secluded spot, Eileen watched as

face etched with concern. “Vivian, remember you’re still navigating these waters. Play it cool, or he might

voice was tinged with uncertainty as she clutched Kian’s shirt. “Didn’t I remind him when he used to hold me in high regard? Now, I feel there’s this gap between us.

interject. “I’ve grown up, fully capable of making my own choices.

Vivian, his expression softening.

her with no choice but to wait

caught her eye without a hint of surprise, apparently having noticed her presence long ago.

I assure you I had no such intention. I was here first, and it was just that your positioning barred my exit.” Around Kian, Eileen often

a boyfriend now. Should I expect wedding

side. It’s wise to consider marriage. Your boyfriend’s a game developer; he’s got potential, and

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