Chapter 124
“It’s just something from childhood,” she said, giggling. Tve never even dated anyone before.”
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Xena was trying to walk a fine line–holding on to the prestige of an engagement to someone like Tyler while maintaining her single, “girl–next–door” image.
For added effect, she leaned toward Zion in mock embarrassment.
But Zion was distracted, happened to reach for a cup of water, and his arm blocked her just in time.
It was like an elbow jab.
Xena felt both awkward and annoyed
Jason’s expression soured for entirely different reasons. If Xena’s engagement to Tyler became public knowledge, it would ruin his plans to generate buzz around their supposed “secret romance.”
Guess I’ll have to pivot. His mind raced, crafting a new angle–Engaged socialite torn between duty and desire? “Yeah, that’ll sell.
Emily was always ready to stir the pot. “So, it’s Tyler Krieger, huh? The golden boy himself. I’ve heard he’s brilliant, successful and absolutely gorgeous. You two really are the perfect match.”
Xena buried her face in her hands. “Stop it, Emily! You’re embarrassing me!”
[Wait, Tyler Krieger?! He’s like the ultimate catch! This is straight out of a rom–com!]
[I can’t believe Xena’s engaged. There goes my daydreams of being her match. RIP my delusions.]
[Why are Ryan and Zion acting so weird about this? They look guilty. Spill the tea!]
Janie’s gaze flickered slightly at the mention of the Krieger family.
She thought, Tyler Krieger! Isn’t he Spencer’s obnoxiously perfect cousin?‘
Her eyes cooled. Birds of a feather flock together.
But Ryan and Zion completely misinterpreted her reaction. Seeing her brief pause, they assumed she was remembering the engagement that should have been hers. The weight of their guilt doubled.
Ryan, in particular, felt a wave of shame crash over him.
Jackson frowned, wondering what these two foolish brothers were thinking again.
Meanwhile, Xena redirected the conversation. “Let’s not make this all about me. What about everyone else? Would you mind sharing?”
Emily immediately looked flustered. “Oh, uh, I don’t know. Someone else goes first?”
Jason jumped in. “Single and proud. Just your average guy living the single life.”
Zion scowled at the idea of being put on the spot. Without a word, he firmly declined to answer.
Sensing the growing tension, the production team quickly stepped in. This question involves a lot of personal information. Let’s leave it up to the guests–answer if you’d like, but no pressure.”
Molly, as expected of a girl group member, confidently stated she was single and didn’t elaborate further.
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13.04 WEL, TO APT
Chapter 124
JAw, Jason is such a sweet little single puppy! Love him for that.)
It’s fine if people don’t want to answer. Not everyone has to share everything 1
Janie propped her chin on her hand, she wasn’t interested in answering and made no effort to hide it.
Nena telt increasingly uncomfortable with the lack of engagement. Watching Janie sit there, seemingly above it all, grated on
her nerves.
“Why is everyone so quiet now? It’s making me look silly! Xena teased.
Jason jumped to support her. “Hey, it’s not just you. Molly and I answered! Let’s get a couple more people to share.”
Nena quickly nodded. “Right! And the audience asked, so we should at least try to respect that?”
She hesitated, then added, “Not that I mean anyone’s being disrespectful, of course!”
David frowned, cutting through the awkwardness. “There’s no question of respect or disrespect. It’s just a question, and we’re answering if we want to.”
Nena’s smile froze.
David added. “For the record. I’m single.”
Janie finally broke her silence. “Same. I’m single right now.”
She paused for a beat, then raised an eyebrow. “Happy now?”
[Janie’s single and thriving. Love that for her. Independent queen!]
[Did she say ‘right now? That sounds like something’s about to change!]
[Why did Janie say that? It sounds like she might get into a relationship soon.]
Emily immediately latched onto Janie’s choice of words. “Right now?”
Janie smiled, “Yes, right now. Is that a problem?”
Jason leaned in with surprise. “Does that mean you’re interested in someone? Or planning to date soon?”
Jackson interrupted, his tone sharp. That’s not the question, is it? Janie doesn’t have to answer anything she doesn’t want to.
Jason smiled, “Of course not. Just curious.”
