Chapter 283: Julian Cross Flicked His Cigarette Ash

Julian Cross flicked his cigarette ash, his tone casual. "You helped me at the hotel last time. I don't like owing favors. Even though you and Grant broke up, a debt is still a debt."

He glanced at his watch. He'd smoked two cigarettes in the hallway—at least twenty minutes. Clara Whitmore hadn't even called him?

Mason Reed had clearly said the resources were in his hands.

Top-tier resources, no less.

Why was this woman so dense?

Julian scoffed. "You need a reliable editor? I'll send you a contact."

Clara wasn't the type to play coy.

When opportunity knocked, she wouldn't turn it away.

"Thanks."

"Just settling the score."

The call ended. Julian pulled up the editor's messages, ready to forward it.

His finger froze mid-air—

He hadn't even added Clara as a friend.

He redialed. "Accept my friend request. Relax, I'm not like Connor Hayes. I don't mess with my friends' exes. If it bothers you, delete me after I send the contact."

"Done."

"Good."

After forwarding the contact, Julian turned back toward the private room.

Mason, cigarette dangling from his lips, teased, "Fall into the toilet?"

"Fuck off."

A female companion immediately pressed against him. "Julian, why'd you abandon me earlier?"

"Want me to take you to the men's room?" Julian pinched her chin.

She playfully thumped his chest.

"Julian, book me for tonight~"

He smirked but didn't respond.

Her smile stiffened.

These rich boys were generous with their money and sweet talk. But their moods shifted faster than flipping a page.

Their hearts were made of stone.

* * *

By the time they left, it was nearly midnight.

The trio stood outside the bar. Julian asked, "How are you getting back?"

Grant Holloway: "Called a designated driver."

Mason: "Taking a cab. You?"

Julian: "Staying at a hotel."

"Wow, not bringing anyone? Unusual."

"You think I can't get women?"

Mason rolled his eyes. "Watch out for STDs."

"None of your business." Julian spotted his car's headlights. "I'm out."

Mason suddenly grabbed his arm. "About that editor—"

"I sent it already. Stop nagging."

"When? You two weren't even connected."

"Just added her. Got a problem?"

Mason sobered up instantly. "Since when are you so helpful? Unless—"

"Shut it!" Julian cut him off, sneaking a glance at Grant.

Damn. His face was darker than ink.

"Just repaying a favor. Don't overthink it!"

One lunatic like Connor was enough.