Alright, here's the edited chapter, incorporating the changes and improvements:
Rusty Stripe and his gang stormed into Costa Cafe, their faces a mask of aggression. The previously tranquil atmosphere instantly evaporated, replaced by a tense silence. Patrons averted their gazes, desperate to avoid becoming collateral damage. Only Julian, oblivious to the brewing confrontation, remained seated, immersed in his newfound understanding of the bubble system.
He had finally grasped its underlying logic. Now, he was eager to exploit the negative emotion mechanic, envisioning a future overflowing with free, high-level skills. However, Southampton, it seemed, was devoid of notable talent. A thought that was quickly interrupted.
A massive hand, like a bear's paw, landed heavily on Julian's shoulder. He hissed, nearly blurting out an expletive. He turned to face the intruder, his eyes locking onto Rusty Stripe's menacing glare.
"Who do you think you are?" Rusty Stripe snarled, his eyes blazing. "You, a scrawny nobody, dating Sophie?"
Julian recognized Rusty Stripe from his memories of twelve years past. Chris Dick, the star center back of the Southampton Private High School's "Bucks Steel Horns," was a hulking figure, a high school version of a muscle-bound tank. Known for his explosive temper, he had once famously tackled a referee and chased an opposing player into the locker room. His cohorts were equally notorious, a gang of bullies who instilled fear in the entire school.
In his previous life, Julian had avoided such confrontations. He'd quietly finished his lunch with Sophie and left, never crossing paths with Rusty Stripe. But this time, fate had taken a different turn.
"Rusty Stripe! What are you doing?" Sophie rushed in, her voice laced with anxiety, and pushed Rusty Stripe's hand away from Julian's shoulder.
Seeing Sophie's concern, Rusty Stripe's jealousy flared. "Sophie, why are you so worried about him? A weakling like him needs your protection?"
His gang jeered, adding their own brand of crude commentary. Julian frowned. He had no desire to engage with these thugs, but their taunts were becoming unbearable.
Before Julian could respond, Sophie grabbed his arm. "Julian, just ignore them. Let's go." She subtly pinched his arm, urging him to avoid confrontation.
Julian, however, gave her a reassuring smile, showing no intention of leaving.
"Want to leave?" Rusty Stripe blocked their path, his large frame an imposing barrier. "How can we let some Asian nobody steal our school's queen? Unless Sophie publicly dumps him, you're not walking out of here in one piece!"
He clenched his fist, the knuckles cracking ominously. His gang mirrored his aggression, adopting intimidating stances.
Twelve years ago, this scene would have sent Julian into a panic. But now, armed with experience and a newfound understanding of the bubble system, he saw an opportunity.
"Rusty Stripe, right?" he said, his voice calm. "I've heard you're a hothead, and you're certainly living up to your reputation."
Rusty Stripe sneered. "Are you trying to flatter me? It won't work."
"Flatter you?" Julian raised an eyebrow. "I'm stating a fact." He paused, then added, "Aren't you curious why Sophie chose me?"
He turned to Sophie, his gaze filled with warmth and tenderness. Sophie trembled, experiencing a genuine affection she hadn't felt before. Rusty Stripe's face twisted in rage.
Julian gently took Sophie's hand. "The answer is simple: I'm handsome."
The cafe patrons murmured in agreement. Julian, with his tall stature, sharp features, and confident smile, was undeniably attractive. Even Rusty Stripe's gang had to grudgingly admit it.
"Handsome?" Rusty Stripe scoffed. "What's so handsome about him? Sophie, look at my muscles!" He flexed his biceps, the muscles bulging impressively.
Sophie, still reeling from Julian's touch and his unexpected display of affection, couldn't help but roll her eyes at Rusty Stripe's display. "I'm not shallow," she retorted, her cheeks flushed.
Julian gave her a playful smile. "I know, darling. I'm just showing Rusty Stripe my other qualities."
His charm was overwhelming. Sophie, flustered, struggled to control her racing heart. Was this the same bookworm she knew? Could he actually have feelings for her?
The tension in the air was thick. Julian's calculated charm, combined with Sophie's genuine reaction, created a live performance of affection. The cafe was silent, every patron captivated.
Julian, meanwhile, silently rejoiced. The Stanislavski acting skill was proving invaluable. He could almost see the negative emotions radiating off Rusty Stripe. This was going to be good.