Chapter 4

I don't know if it was intentional or coincidence, but Mike's seat was right next to Julia's.

Mike held the popcorn with a grin. "Hehe, perfect—we can all go to dinner together after the movie."

My gaze drifted vaguely forward. I didn't want to talk to him.

Maybe this movie was the type these people usually liked to watch. By the later part of the film, Julia had gathered with those friends, discussing quietly.

And I was yawning from boredom.

Seeing them chatting happily, I decided to take a quick nap.

Who knew that when I opened my eyes again, even the ending credits had finished playing.

Our group walked out. Mike was enthusiastically discussing the plot with Julia.

The two got more and more absorbed in conversation, and soon walked far ahead of us.

Leaving me with Julia's friends awkwardly looking at each other behind them.

Maybe my silence made everyone think I was upset. Someone searched for jokes to tell me, someone bought me drinks and snacks.

"Matthew, don't take offense. Mike and Julia have known each other so long, their interests and hobbies are pretty similar. Usually when they start talking, they can go on for ages. None of us dare interrupt."

I replied with understanding warmth: "I know. Old friends with a close relationship."

By the time Julia realized she'd left me alone with her friend group, half an hour had passed.

She ran back quickly to sincerely apologize.

"Matthew, I'm sorry, I—"

I waved my hand, cutting off her excuse.

"It's fine, it's fine. Julia and Mike haven't seen each other in a while, right? Taking some time to chat is no big deal. I'm not that petty."

I handed the snacks and drinks to the friend group, then intimately linked arms with Julia.

"Julia, I'm hungry. Let's go eat!"

I swear, in all my life I'd never used such a gentle tone with anyone.

Of course, the effect was excellent!

Julia's face turned completely red.

Her friend group was lively, each one quick-witted and never holding back their teasing.

Only Mike stood to the side, fists clenched, looking away, not saying a word.

Completely different from his talkative, lively demeanor just moments ago.