Chapter 37 I‘m here for Sylvia

Julie huffed, knowing denial was pointless with how obvious she had become. But still — her friends teasing her so bluntly for a crush was over the line! "I don't want to play anymore if you're going to be so mean. I'll drink by myself then," she declared dramatically without actually budging from her seat. The hilarious bluff just made Sylvia and Kelly laugh harder. Jokes aside, a years-long bond allowed lighthearted ribbing. And while eager to ogle the eye candy, Julie now felt too self-conscious with the others clued in. Sylvia and Kelly kept needling her, amusement growing. The second round of drinks arrived, momentarily distracting them. Glancing outside, Sylvia's eyes met a familiar face passing by. Jonathan paused to greet her, but Sylvia looked away instantly, body language closed-off. Surprised by the frigid brush-off after their friendly history, Jonathan figured Sylvia’s temper remained foul after the Cyril fiasco. Still, they should at least be cordial acquaintances abl