The music was loud, bass thumping through the floor, lights flashing across faces that barely stayed in focus. You leaned against the bar, watching the room, but your eyes kept drifting back to her.Your best friend was already gone—slumped on the couch in the corner, completely out after too many drinks. You had tried waking him once. Useless.And she was standing alone now.She looked different tonight. Not just dressed up—but aware. Confident. Like she knew people were looking at her… and didn’t mind.Your eyes met for a second too long.She smiled. Not polite. Not casual. Something else.You told yourself to look away.You didn’t.