Ellison And Joycelyn A Love Beyond The Rules novel Chapter 72

Chapter 72 

After Joycelyn spoke, she noticed Tenley’s face darken immediately. 

She gave a soft smile, as if her previous sharp words had just been a joke. 

After all, when someone makes things difficult for her, there’s no need to be too concerned with saving face. 

“Joycelyn, what’s that supposed to mean? Who are you disgusted with?” Tenley’s voice immediately rose, full of anger. 

“Isn’t that the case?” Lucy chimed in, unafraid of Tenley’s fury. 

The tension in the air thickened, and the other guests started to intervene. 

“Come on, everyone, we’re all old classmates here, let’s keep things civil. This is the teacher’s birthday party, after all. Both of you beautiful ladies, please cool down.” 

“Yes, let’s all sit down and wait for dinner to start.” 

Two classmates, known for livening up the atmosphere, quickly stepped in to smooth things over, trying to divert attention away from the conflict. 

“Looks like the teacher won’t be coming today, he’s feeling a bit under the weather. My gift’s already been delivered, so I’ll let 

you 

all enjoy the evening.” Joycelyn placed her gift with the others and, not wanting to linger, made her way towards the door. 

Caroline nudged Tenley and gave her a look. 

Though Tenley still looked displeased, she responded, “Joycelyn, I was too brash earlier. I truly hope you’re doing well, and I apologize. Let me toast to you with the first drink.” 

Tenley, without hesitation, picked up a glass of wine and drank it in one go. 

Joycelyn was skeptical. Something about this seemed off. 

She had intended to leave, but Caroline stopped her, smiling as she said, “Oh, it’s just an old class reunion. We’re all doing so well, and I really hope you’re doing well too. The teacher’s at the hospital getting his blood pressure checked, so let’s start eating.” 

Caroline then pushed Joycelyn gently back into her seat. 

Joycelyn didn’t resist and sat down, planning to slip away later. 

“Liam, sit next to Joycelyn. You two were desk mates, right?” 

Caroline said, pulling Liam into the seat next to Joycelyn. 

Looking at her former desk mate, Joycelyn remembered that he was quite introverted. During the year they sat together, they barely exchanged a word, other than asking for homework and the occasional question. 

If it wasn’t for her curiosity about his role in Ruby’s team, Joycelyn wouldn’t have come today. 

Though Liam still seemed quiet and reserved, his attire plain, there was a striking difference: he wore a Rolex worth over 150 thousand dollars, clearly a sign of Ruby’s generous treatment. 

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Chapter 72 

Joycelyn had seen this watch before when she bought a gift for Ellison at the store. 

“Liam, what do you do now?” she asked casually. 

“I… I do some tech development, Liam replied, clearly uneasy. He kept his eyes fixed on his wine glass, his posture stiff. 

“That sounds impressive. Which company do you work for?” Joycelyn asked softly. 

“Sorry, I can’t really say,” Liam replied, shaking his head as he swallowed nervously. 

Joycelyn figured he just didn’t like to share details about his work, likely a person who preferred to keep to himself. So, she didn’t press further. 

She turned her attention back to chatting with Lucy. 

During the meal, there was plenty of boasting and comparisons between the classmates. The women especially were showing off their wealth. 

While Joycelyn ate quietly, Lucy, being a saleswoman, had no trouble chatting with everyone and seemed to be getting along well with the group. 

The others kept pouring drinks for Liam, with increasingly exaggerated compliments. 

It all felt a bit overwhelming to Joycelyn, so she got up to excuse herself, claiming she needed to use the restroom, hoping to leave the chaotic scene. 

Tenley immediately nudged Caroline, signaling for her to act. 

Caroline, understanding, whispered, “Don’t worry. I’ve already sent the photos. My people are waiting outside.” 

As Joycelyn was texting Ellison, she was stopped by Liam. 

“Joycelyn, wait,” Liam called, hurrying up behind her. 

She stopped and turned around, “What’s up?” 

“I have something for you. I hope you don’t mind,” Liam said, looking nervous as he pulled a small box from his pocket. 

“Huh? I can’t accept your gift. It’s not appropriate. I’m married. If my husband knew I was accepting gifts from other men, he’d be upset,” Joycelyn replied bluntly, refusing the offer. 

“This is a thank–you gift. Do you remember when I had a fever before my exams? You bought me some cold medicine. If it weren’t for your kindness, I definitely would’ve failed,” Liam explained, his voice urgent and regretful. 

Joycelyn paused, thinking for a moment. “Oh, I remember now. The fever medicine was in my backpack. You really don’t need to worry about it.” 

She spoke softly, just as the elevator arrived. She was ready to leave. 

At the end of the corridor, Ruby had stepped out of the private room to make a call and overheard the conversation.