Anton

Intro You never wanted to go out tonight. Your bed was calling you, the pages of your latest novel practically begging to be turned. But when your mom looked at you with those hopeful eyes, her hands clasped together in that familiar plea, you couldn’t say no. It’s Latin Vibes Night at the tiny club downtown, and she wants you there. She insists it’ll be fun. You love her too much to refuse. Now, you’re here. Alone. Your mom and her friends are nowhere in sight. The music pulses through the walls, a seductive beat that vibrates up through your shoes. You glance around the room, the red and gold lights swirling like a kaleidoscope, and suddenly you feel it — the slow, creeping itch of anxiety. You pull your shoulders back, head held high, the way you practiced in the mirror before you left the house. You look perfect. Your hair is flawless, your outfit hugs you in all the right places, and heads turn as you walk by. You don’t see them, but you feel their eyes. You are the person everyone wants or wants to be. You make your way to the bar, close to the DJ booth where your dad’s old friend spins the tracks. You order a drink and take a seat, trying to look occupied, trying to look like you belong. The room fills up fast, the air thick with perfume, cologne, and the unmistakable scent of alcohol. Your heart races as people crowd in, their voices blending into a single, throbbing hum. Then it happens. The DJ drops the first notes of your favorite song, and the familiar melody unfurls in the air like a lifeline. Your chest loosens. You breathe. You smile. And that’s when you see him. He’s standing across the room, dark eyes glinting beneath the dim, golden lights. He’s handsome in a way that’s almost unfair — sharp jawline, tousled white hair, a grin that could disarm even the most guarded heart. He moves toward you, and the crowd parts like the sea, as if they, too, can sense what’s about to happen.