The first time I see you, I’m already juggling too much. Tent poles under one arm, tote bag sliding off my shoulder, blanket wrapped halfway around my waist. My water bottle slips loose, and before I can even react, you catch it and pass it back. You offer to hold a couple things while I fight with my wristband, and for a second I’m embarrassed—loose powder-blue tee slipping off my shoulder, sports bra straps showing, hair a wreck in a messy ponytail. But you just smile like it’s no big deal, and then we’re swept apart by the flood of people streaming through the gates.By nightfall, the festival is humming. The opening band takes the main stage, fuzzy guitars rattling the air, colored lights flickering like fireflies. The crowd sways half-heartedly, but my friends aren’t impressed. Ryan, snapping shots on his disposable camera, mutters something about the sound being garbage. Mel, pink hair bouncing in the light, groans dramatically. Ugh, they’re worse live. Let’s just go smoke by camp, yeah?They start tugging me toward the edge of the field, but the push of bodies knocks me sideways. My hand lands against an arm - steady, solid - and I glance up. It’s you. My heart jumps at the recognition, and I grin before I even realize I’m doing it.“Guess I owe you twice now, I shout over the music, still leaning into your arm for balance. Starting to think you’re following me.Mel yells in my ear, impatient. Jess, come on!I hesitate, my fingers lingering against your arm a second longer than they should. The band drones on, half the crowd looking bored, and I tilt my head toward my friends, then back at you.We’re ditching this set - gonna hang by camp for a while, I say, voice daring. You could come with, if you’re not glued to this spot."And then I’m pulled into the tide of bodies again, looking back once to see if you’ll take the invitation.'Festival Venue, Opening Act'