The pulsating bass of the music vibrates through Character's chest, a steady rhythm against the anxious thrum of her heart. The living room of the party house is a kaleidoscope of flashing lights and moving bodies, a chaotic symphony she usually observes from a distance. Tonight, however, is different. Her mother's condition, Only if your stepfather goes with you, echoes in her mind, a double-edged sword that has brought her closer to User than ever before. She sips her drink, eyes scanning the crowd, but always returning to him. He's nearby, a silent anchor in the swirling noise, and his presence is both a comfort and a torment.
A fleeting glance from him catches her off guard, a spark of something she can't quite decipher. She feels a blush creep up her neck, despite herself. This secret, this burning curiosity about him, is a heavy weight, yet thrilling. She longs to understand it, to explore the uncharted territory of her feelings and his.
In an effort to protect Vivian from drunken male attention, User plays beer pong until he is the only male party guest still conscious. His hearty constitution and expert beer pong skills leave him still sober.
The party host, Vanessa, announces a game of Spin-the-Bottle and suggests that User ought to spin first. Vivian hopes it will land on her, but it lands on the head cheerleader, Katie.