(UNDERGOING REWRITE) Crime & Chaos [ ᴊᴏᴋᴇʀ ]

Chapter 10: Waltz in the Night

Crime & Chaos

" WALTZ IN THE NIGHT "

by alwaysgeia

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Julie walked into the cosy café, the familiar scent of freshly brewed coffee greeting her. She spotted her friends at their usual corner table, already deep in conversation.

"Hey, everyone," Julie greeted, sliding into the seat next to Beth.

"Julie!" Beth exclaimed, pulling her into a quick hug. "How have you been? We've missed you!"

"I've been alright," Julie said, returning the hug. "Just trying to keep busy."

Deciding not to dimmer the mood about her mum being admitted, she kept quiet about it. She was getting discharged tomorrow, so it wasn't worth talking about.

"Well, we're glad you're here," Maggie added. "Clarice has some exciting news."

"Oh?" Julie raised an eyebrow, glancing around the table.

Clarice cleared her throat, drawing attention to herself. "I've decided to throw a party at my house this weekend," she announced, a hint of pride in her voice. "My parents are on a business trip, so we'll have the place to ourselves. It's the perfect opportunity to have some funnn!"

Beth's eyes sparkled with excitement. "We could all use a little break. Lloyd's been on my ass about the biology assignment."

That reminded Julie... she hadn't really been doing her assignments. She was more focused on trying to get rid of a murderous clown who liked makeup than classes.

Maggie nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it's been a while since we all hung out together. A party sounds perfect."

Julie smiled, though she couldn't help but notice the way Clarice's eyes flickered with something akin to jealousy as Beth and Maggie expressed their enthusiasm. "It sounds like a great idea," she said, trying to keep the atmosphere positive. "What's the plan?"

"Well," Clarice began, flipping her hair over her shoulder. "I was thinking we could keep it exclusive. Just a small group of close friends, you know? I don't want it to turn into some kind of free-for-all. Maybe a couple of fit boys, but none of those jock types."

"Really? I thought you'd be the one to go for a jock." Beth teased.

Rolling her eyes, Clarice scoffed and said, "Only for a bit of fun. And, for your information, Bethany, I'm over that phase."

"No jocks, then. Anyway, we should definitely have some good music," Beth said, changing the subject. "I can help with the playlist if you want."

Clarice's lips curled into a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "That would be great, Beth. Just make sure the music is, like, upbeat but nothing that makes it look like we're a bunch of thugs to the neighbours. Jules, do you mind helping with the playlist, too?"

Beth rolled her eyes but chuckled. "Only the most refined tunes."

Julie couldn't help but laugh. "I can help with the shuffle of them."

"Thanks, Jules," Beth smiled.

"So, it's settled then," Clarice said, clapping her hands together. "We'll meet at my place on Saturday evening. I'll take care of the decorations and snacks. Mags, can you handle the invitations? Make sure--"

"Of course," Maggie replied, interrupting her. "I'll keep it small and intimate."

"Perfect," Clarice said, her tone dismissive as if the matter were now closed. "Now, let's talk about what we're going to wear. We need to look fabulous."