Chapter 43

"Yeah, we've noticed you two have been paired up lately," someone chimed in.

Facing the teasing, Jayden smiled politely, offering no denial. Under the table, Ivana clenched her fist. She thought, "Why doesn't he deny it? He's my boyfriend!" Ivana was furious. She'd been with Jayden for a long time, yet he never acknowledged their relationship publicly.

Isabella glanced at Jayden, surprised by his lack of clarification. As a movie star, he'd always instructed her to avoid giving the impression that they were a couple. She looked at the others, a gentle smile on her face. "Don't misunderstand," she said. "There's nothing between Jayden and me."

A sudden silence fell. The smile vanished from Jayden's face. Ivana, still controlling her anger, looked at Isabella incredulously. "Why did she say that?" she wondered.

Everyone was surprised. Luna, shocked, knew how much Isabella had liked Jayden. She never expected Isabella to so calmly deny a relationship. "Did they break up?" Luna thought. "This gathering was so inappropriate! What a mess I've created!"

Jayden's intense gaze fell on Isabella. She'd expertly deflected the situation. A trace of mockery flickered in his eyes, but he remained silent.

Sensing the awkwardness, Jill quickly changed the subject. Standing, she raised her wine glass. "Since we're all here, let's play some games!"

The others readily agreed. "Sure, what should we play?"

"Truth or dare?" Jill suggested.

Many agreed, and Luna, waving her hand, called for the manager. "Bring me your most expensive wine!" The room instantly livened up.

"Luna's so generous!" everyone cheered.

As the organizer, Luna took charge. She placed an empty wine bottle on the table. "Everyone gather around. Simple rules: whoever the bottle points to is next," she explained, feeling a pang of guilt. She wished she hadn't suggested this game.

No one objected. Luna held the bottle, smiling. "Three two one—"

Everyone watched intently as the bottle spun. It landed, pointing at Jayden.

Many exclaimed. Jill grinned. "You're the big movie star! Don't pick 'truth,' that's boring!"

Jayden grinned, sitting up straighter. "Dare."

The women laughed excitedly; the men whistled. Before Luna could speak, someone shouted, "Big movie star, kiss any lady here!"

Several girls screamed. A kiss from Jayden was highly desirable, especially after Isabella's denial. Jayden's brow furrowed slightly; his gaze grew cold.

Jill stepped forward. "Don't worry," she reassured him. "We're all friends; no one will take pictures."

Others chimed in, "You're not scared, Mr. Logue? What are you talking about? Jayden always keeps his promises!"

Isabella watched, a hint of disdain in her eyes. She remained quiet, sipping her drink. If not for Luna, she would have left.

Jayden nodded. "Of course. If I play, I pay up." Keeping his word was important. Choosing whom to kiss was another matter. He squinted. He couldn't let go of Isabella just yet.

Amid the excitement, Ivana watched Jayden with eager anticipation, her heart pounding.

Jayden stood, and Ivana closed her eyes. A chill ran down her spine as she saw him approach Isabella. Disbelief filled her eyes. "What is he doing?" she thought. "Is he going to kiss that bitch? I'm his girlfriend!" Rage consumed her.

Isabella, equally surprised, thought, "Why is he stopping in front of me? Is he going to kiss me?"

Jayden chuckled. "Bella, would you mind if I kissed you?" His eyes were gentle, his face radiating charm. But Isabella's cold anger flared. He'd slept with her sister, Ivana.

Seeing Isabella hesitate, Jayden's eyes showed disdain. He thought she was playing hard to get. Amidst the teasing, he leaned toward her.

Ivana's fury intensified. "Why does Isabella get all the luck?" she thought. "Why her?"

Luna was shocked. "Did they fight, but still have feelings?" she wondered.

Isabella's face darkened. "Ivana is his girlfriend, and he's making a move on me?" she thought. Disgust flashed in her eyes as she pushed him away.

Stunned silence followed. "Was Isabella telling the truth?" everyone wondered. They all knew Isabella's position in the Stout family, and Jayden's status as a Logue and a top actor. She was beneath him; she'd repeatedly rejected him.

Jayden's gentle gaze turned icy. Isabella smiled. "Why not choose Ivana instead? My sister has had a crush on you for a while."