Deflect with Humor

I laugh it off, shrugging, and lean back in my stool, putting some space between us. “Yeah, that Thalia was a hot mess. Lucky for you, I’m all boring now—just here for a beer and Monica’s gossip. Your turn, what’s your dumbest college story?” I keep it light, steering us away from that flirty edge, but I’m still smiling, keeping the vibe easy.

Ryan grins, shaking his head like he’s disappointed but amused. “C’mon, you can’t dodge that easy. But fine, I’ll bite.” He takes a swig of his beer, thinking for a second. “Sophomore year, I tried to impress this cheerleader by chugging a whole pitcher at a tailgate. Ended up puking in her lap before halftime. Total legend move.” He laughs, and it’s infectious, pulling a real chuckle out of me.

“Classy, Ryan,” I say, rolling my eyes but still grinning. “Bet she was thrilled. Did you at least get her number?” I’m keeping it playful, friendly, like we’re just two people shooting the shit, not crossing any lines. The bar’s noise wraps around us, and for a second, I feel almost normal, like this could be my life—chatting, laughing, enjoying life as it is.

Then Monica strides up, her lips pursed, looking like she’s about to chew someone out. “God, this place is a zoo,” Monica says, her voice sharp, tossing her hair back as she slides onto a stool. Her eyes are narrowed, and she’s fidgeting with her bracelet, clearly pissed about something. “Some creep wouldn’t leave me alone by the bathroom. Took forever to shake him.”