Chapter 12 — Sparks Beneath the Surface
I wasn't even two steps into Lizzie's when Judy clocked me.
She stood near the bar, arms crossed, eyes flicking up from her holo-tool.
"Didn't expect to see you back here… alone."
Her voice cool — not cold. But not warm either.
I gave her a slow smile.
"Didn't know I needed an invite."
Judy raised a brow.
"Evelyn didn't mention you'd be hanging around."
I leaned on the bar beside her, close but not too close.
"Guess she doesn't tell you everything."
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[System Notice: Judy Alvarez — Interest +5 — Defensive Curiosity Triggered]
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Judy met my gaze — level, searching.
"You're not like the usual scavs she plays with."
I chuckled.
"Good thing. I don't play well with others."
Judy's lips twitched — almost a smile.
"You sure about that?"
I tilted my head, letting my voice drop slightly.
"Depends on who I'm playing with."
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[System Notice: Judy Alvarez — Interest +10 — Response Positive, Guarded Curiosity]
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Judy gave a small snort, shaking her head.
"You're trouble."
I smirked.
"Only if you want me to be."
She turned back to her holo-tool — but her eyes flicked toward me again before she did.
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[Harem Progress Checkpoint: Judy Alvarez — Stage 2 Moving to 3 — Private Contact Successful]
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I pushed off the bar.
"See you around, Judy."
She didn't look up, but her voice followed me.
"Yeah… maybe you will."
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As I walked out, the System pinged softly.
[Side Note: Judy Alvarez — Now Open to Personal Encounters & Teasing Flirtation]
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One down.
One curious.
And one very tangled heist about to go live.
Night City wasn't ready.
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Romance Targets After Chapter 12 Recap:
Evelyn Parker — Interest: +115 — Stage 3: Heated Flirtation & Touch Barrier Broken
Judy Alvarez — Interest: +60 — Stage 3: Personal Connection & Tease Level Unlocked