Daddy's Best Friend

21

CHAPTER 21

Sophia's POV

The music was pounding in my ears, and the neon lights flashed erratically, casting a surreal glow over the crowded dance floor. Jason had dragged me here with the promise of a good time, but my mind was far from the pounding bass and swirling dancers. It was consumed by the image of Henry with another woman.

I half-heartedly moved to the beat as Jason settled onto a barstool beside me. He could sense my unease, but he was determined to make me enjoy the night.

"Are you having a good time?" he asked, shouting over the music.

I shrugged, not wanting to dampen his enthusiasm. "It's not really my scene, to be honest."

He chuckled, shaking his head. "Sophia, you need to let loose once in a while. Life isn't just about work and studies."

Jason waved over the bartender and ordered a shot of whiskey. He slid one over to me, and I hesitated before accepting it. The burning sensation down my throat was both familiar and foreign.

With a half-smile, he leaned closer, his eyes curious. "I've got a question for you, and I want an honest answer."

I glanced at him, intrigued. "Okay, shoot."

"Have you ever had a boyfriend?" he asked, his tone surprisingly gentle.

I took a moment to consider my response. It wasn't a secret that I hadn't been in a relationship before, but explaining why was a bit more complicated. "No, not really."

Jason raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. "Come on, Sophia. You're beautiful, smart, and funny. I find it hard to believe you've never had a boyfriend."

I sighed, trying to find the right words. "It's not that I haven't had opportunities or that I'm not interested. It's just... I guess my taste in men is rare. I've always struggled to form a real connection with someone."

He looked at me, his expression more serious now. "What do you mean by rare?"

I hesitated, not sure how much to reveal. But something about Jason's openness made me want to be honest. "I mean, I've never met someone who... clicks with me, you know? Someone who gets me, challenges me, and makes me want to be a better version of myself. I don't want to settle for anything less than that."

Jason nodded, his gaze thoughtful. "I get what you're saying. Sometimes, it's better to be alone than with the wrong person."

We clinked our shot glasses together in a silent toast to shared struggles. It was a strange feeling, opening up to Jason like this. I had always been guarded about my personal life, but his genuine interest and understanding made it easier.

As the night wore on, I found myself gradually letting go of my worries about Henry and Layla. Jason and I danced, laughed, and talked about everything and nothing. The club began to feel less like an alien world and more like a place of temporary escape.

****

I couldn't believe what was happening. Jason had just confessed to me about this mysterious girl who had been harboring feelings for him for what felt like eternity. He looked so lost, his eyes searching mine for answers. I couldn't help but laugh, though, when he asked if it was Molly.

"Was it Molly?" I grinned, my voice dripping with mischief. The way he had described her, I had a feeling it was none other than our drama queen, Molly.

Jason's eyes widened in shock. "How did you know? Was it that obvious?" he asked, genuinely perplexed.

I shrugged playfully. "Oh, Jason, it's all in the way you look at her. It's like deciphering a secret code." I chuckled.