Sophie's Life

Chapter 34: Daniel's New Friend

A few days after we aced our project, we decided to celebrate at Jules's place. She'd promised a laid-back evening, with snacks, music, and all of us just kicking back after the craziness of classes and projects. Everyone from the group was there—James, Abby, Aiden, Daniel, Alan, Nathan, Sasha, Riley, Kenji, Aaron, and even me. I'd just settled in, feeling relaxed and ready for a fun night, when the door swung open, and James walked in with Ayla.

I felt a collective sigh around the room, but we brushed it off, determined to enjoy the evening. Then Jules clapped her hands, drawing our attention. "Hey, everyone, I'd like you all to meet Mia!" she announced, gesturing to the girl beside her.

Mia had a bright smile and a warm energy that instantly filled the room. She looked confident but relaxed, and there was something intriguing about her. She greeted everyone, blending in almost seamlessly, like she'd always been a part of our group.

"Hey, Mia!" we all chorused, and soon enough, she was mingling with the others. Daniel, ever the gentleman, offered her a drink, and they started talking, laughing like they'd known each other forever. I noticed her hand lightly touching his arm as she spoke, and I felt a slight twinge. Something about Mia made me a bit suspicious, though I couldn't quite put my finger on it.

Meanwhile, Aiden and Daniel were getting into their usual friendly banter. Aiden nudged Daniel playfully, grinning. "So, Mr. Business Pro, tell me—how'd you manage to ace that project without a genius like me on the team?"

Daniel smirked. "Oh, please. Just because you're Mr. Science doesn't mean you're the only brainiac around here. You could learn a thing or two from us 'business pros.'"

Aiden put his arm around Daniel's shoulder, grinning mischievously. "You're right. Teach me your ways, oh wise one," he teased, batting his eyelashes dramatically. They both burst out laughing, their bromance on full display, which had the rest of us cracking up too.

Mia seemed amused, glancing between Aiden and Daniel with a raised eyebrow. "Are they always like this?" she asked, grinning.

"Pretty much," I replied, trying to sound casual, though my eyes kept darting to her and Daniel. They seemed to hit it off a bit too quickly, and something about the way she looked at him made me feel... well, something I didn't entirely understand.

In the corner, Ayla was chatting with James, and though I tried to ignore them, I couldn't help noticing the occasional glances he threw my way. Every time I caught his eye, he'd quickly look away, which only made me more uncomfortable.

As the night wore on, Mia fit right in, laughing and joining in on our jokes as if she'd always been there. But as I watched her and Daniel talking closely, something felt off. She was charismatic, sure, but I couldn't shake the feeling that maybe she wasn't as genuine as she seemed. 

Jules pulled me aside for a moment, whispering, "What do you think of Mia? I think she's great!"

I forced a smile. "Yeah, she seems... fun."

Jules raised an eyebrow. "Fun? Come on, Soph, she's awesome! You'll get used to her."

I nodded, but a flicker of doubt remained. For now, I'd have to let it go and just enjoy the night. As I looked around the room, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this group, even with all the drama. After all, we were here together, celebrating our little victories and, maybe, discovering new chapters of our lives.