Romeo and Juliet

31-L-

Julie Is News

Freshened up with a quick shower and a touch of makeup, I descend to the bustling restaurant. In a cozy corner, Frank and Steven are doubled over in laughter—a surprising sight, given their usual stoic exchanges.

My gaze drifts across the room, landing on Romeo, who's nestled among his friends. Each step I take towards the cheerleaders' table feels weighted under his watchful eye. His wink sends a shiver down my spine, and his suggestive lip-lick leaves me pondering his intentions for my missing underwear.

Asshole!

Julissa is conspicuously absent. Why would she abandon me? Just great!

Leonor greets me with a smile as I approach their table. "Hey Helena. Do you want to join us? We're heading out before tonight's games, but we can wait for you," she offers warmly.

I slide into an empty chair, scanning the room. "Thanks, Leo. Have you seen Julie?"

"She took off with George," Leonor informs me.

Kathy leans in, her voice a hushed whisper. "What happened to Daniel? Is she hooking up with George? I thought Melissa and him were an item. I don't understand."

I muster a forced smile, though I'm not in the mood for their thirst for scandal. Yet, Kathy's words echo in my mind. She's what?

"They split a few weeks back. They're probably just friends," I say, rising to fetch my meal. Romeo's gaze feels like a physical prod, urging me to seek refuge beneath the table.

Returning with food, I find them staring distantly, faces etched with displeasure.

"What's the matter?" I murmur, my gaze following theirs.

Julie is there, unabashedly flirting with George, who chuckles at her jokes. He's casually propped by the restroom, phone in hand, while she stands a tad too close for comfort.

"Friends, my foot. Look at that—that's downright treacherous. She's trying to snatch someone else's man in their absence. No offense, dear, but even you, with your colorful dating history, have never meddled in a relationship," Isabel comments sharply.

Her words sting, but I can't refute the truth in them—not that I'd voice it aloud.

"He's mature enough to choose for himself, sweetie. If he were opposed, he'd distance himself, which I hope he does before making a regrettable mistake," I retort, biting into my enchilada with a defiant glare.

All but Isabel, their captain, nod in agreement. Dealing with her is akin to handling Chloe—sometimes even more trouble. And I'm certain she'll relay today's drama to Melissa.

After the meal, we embark on a shopping spree, sticking to nearby stores. I'm on the lookout for an underwear shop, but I can't just blurt out, "Let's go to one because Romeo kidnapped my panties." It would sound absurd, and Isabel would likely tattle to Holly.

Reflecting on the situation, I resolve reusing one.