Leila Wilson never imagined that a single night at a frat party would change her life forever. Quiet, reserved, and more comfortable with a book than in the chaotic swirl of party life, she's never been the type to take risks-until she meets Jesci K...
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As Leila and Jesci continued their conversation about university, the noise of the party seemed to fade into the background. Jesci was relaxed now, leaning back, his hand resting on her thigh, as they exchanged thoughts about classes and university life. Their conversation flowed naturally, yet there was an underlying tension simmering between them.
Just as Leila was beginning to feel entirely comfortable, Luka strode into the lounge, his grin mischievous. "Alright, everyone! Time for Seven Minutes in Heaven!" he called out, loud enough to pull everyone's attention his way.
Jesci rolled his eyes, muttering under his breath, "Again?" He wasn't typically one for party games—especially not ones that felt this juvenile. But before Leila could respond, Grace and Wayde entered the room. Grace was all smiles, already eager to jump into the game. Wayde, on the other hand, seemed tense. His eyes fell on Leila and Jesci sitting close together, and his face immediately darkened.
Jesci noticed his expression instantly, scoffing as he muttered to Leila, "Your friend doesn't look too thrilled."
Leila glanced between the two, feeling an uncomfortable heat rise to her cheeks. Wayde's disapproving gaze was hard to ignore, and she felt caught between two friends with very different feelings. A mixture of guilt and defiance churned within her. Why should she feel bad about sitting with Jesci? This was her choice, and she was allowed to make her own decisions.
Jesci's grip on her thigh tightened ever so slightly, his tone calm yet firm as he leaned in. "You don't owe anyone an explanation, you know. If you want to be here, then be here."
Leila nodded, though she could feel Wayde's gaze burning into her. Grace was already drifting over to the circle gathering around the bottle, completely oblivious to the tension in the air. But Wayde remained standing, watching Leila closely, his expression a mix of concern and frustration.
Finally, Wayde spoke, his voice low but directed firmly at Jesci. "Leila, you don't have to do this if you don't want to. You don't need to feel pressured."
Jesci raised an eyebrow, the corner of his mouth curving into a smirk. "She can decide for herself, Wayde. Maybe you should stop trying to speak for her."
Wayde took a step forward, his jaw clenching as he locked eyes with Jesci. "I'm just making sure she knows she has a choice. Not everyone falls for your games, Jesci."
Jesci's smirk faded, his expression hardening. "Some people actually like my company. Maybe you should try letting Leila make her own choices."
Leila felt the tension between them like a storm about to break. She wanted to speak, to somehow diffuse the situation, but the intensity between Wayde and Jesci was palpable. A defiance rose within her, and without a word, she reached for Jesci's hand, ignoring Wayde's unspoken disappointment.
Jesci squeezed her hand reassuringly, shooting Wayde one last look before standing up and leading her toward the group. Luka, who had been watching the whole exchange with interest, smirked as he motioned them to join the circle.
