Chapter 3: Drinks, Danger, and a Stranger
We danced freely, our bodies moving to the pulsing rhythm of the music, singing along to every word like it was a soundtrack to our lives. The energy was electric─ flashing light, pounding bass, and the carefree thrill of being lost in the moment. For once, I wasn’t overthinking, just letting go and soaking up the joy of being right there with sandy.
But the mood shifted in an instant
A man pushed into our space, weaving through the crowd with clear intent. Before I could register what was happening, he grabbed my hand ─ tight, insistent─ and yanked me toward him. I stumbled slightly, my heart lurching ass he pressed himself against me with a kind of aggression that sent alarms ringing in my head. His movements were invasive, his expression smug and expectant, like he had every right to touch me.
"Hey! Let go of me!" I snapped, trying to pull back, but he only tightened his grip, trying to corner me between the crowd and his chest.
Then, without warning, Aria surged forward. "Not happening," she growled. In one swift, fluid motion, she drive her knee into his leg. The man yelped and staggered back, stunned and clearly not expecting the retaliation.
I stumbled backward from the sudden release─ and just as I lost balance, a firm arm caught me by the waist, steadying me.
I turned, breathless, only to meet a familiar face.
Him.
The guy from the line earlier─ the arrogant one.
the one I’d argued with.
His expression was unreadable, but his hold was steady. Before I could say anything, he let go gently and stepped past me, positioning himself between me and the now─ reeling aggressor.