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.”

her only retort, polite

got hooked on years back. We were pretty good until it became mainstream. Given Eileen’s boyfriend developed

of nonchalance, his gaze briefly touching Eileen. “That’s up

predicament. Having offended Bryan was her mistake. Despite his unilateral decision to

retrieved her phone and unblocked Huey, promptly sharing his contact with Jacob. Her actions were swift. Bryan lifted his brow in a muted reaction,

Kian and Bryan, “Once he’s added me, I’ll start a group chat. It’ll

phone suddenly rang. With a courteous nod

You haven’t even met me, and you’ve decided already? This feels like a slap in the face! And now, out of the blue, you unblock me?

to some colleagues, she found a private spot. “It was to save you some money,” she managed to

me on WhatsApp? He said he was a loyal fan of my game. The gifts from me can also help you with your popularity

is an acquaintance of my boss. He’s

well that Jacob and the others were indifferent to Huey’s virtual offerings, capable of

embarrass you in front of them,” insisted Huey, pride swelling in his words. His speech was cut short by an interruption from his side. “The place is swarming with guests, and you’re

Huey’s attempts at hushing him, to no avail. “Need to go, my mom’s calling,” he hastily told Eileen before ending

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

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

used to hold me in high regard? Now, I feel there’s this gap between us. If I don’t bridge it, who

grown up, fully capable of making my own choices. You needn’t fret over

her stance resolute. Kian looked at Vivian, his expression softening. He comforted

moment, had no desire to intrude. Yet their proximity left her with no choice but to wait in the shadows. When they finally parted ways, she stepped out,

having noticed her presence long ago. “Ms. Curtis,

I was here first, and it was

now. Should I expect wedding bells

place given their distant relationship. Kian continued, “Age isn’t on your side. It’s wise to consider marriage. Your boyfriend’s a game developer; he’s

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