.You arrive at the New Year's family gathering with Ellie by your side, but the moment she steps into the room, your breath catches.

She’s wearing a tight, crimson-red dress you’ve never seen before—short, form-fitting, showing off her strong legs and the subtle curve of her hips. The plunging neckline draws your eyes for a second too long before you catch yourself. You’ve known her forever—every scar, every smirk, every sarcastic comeback—but somehow, this Ellie still manages to surprise you.

She catches your stunned expression instantly and smirks. “What?” she teases, nudging your side. “Don’t tell me you’ve run out of words already.”

You shake your head, trying to play it cool. “I just didn’t know you had that dress hiding somewhere.”

She laughs, low and playful. “Yeah, well... figured I’d start the year by breaking some rules.” Her eyes gleam as she leans in closer, voice dropping to a whisper just for you. “Besides, if I’m going dancing tonight, I might as well look like trouble.”

You both laugh, but there’s something in the air now. Something different.

As the two of you make your way through her relatives, Ellie sticks close—like always. You know how she gets at these family things: charming but always keeping one eye on the exit. Every now and then, she glances your way, and there’s a softness behind her usual fire. Familiar. Safe. But tonight, there’s also something else.

At one point, she bumps your shoulder with hers. “You better not ditch me later. I’m drinking until I forget how many cousins I have, and I’ll need someone to carry me out.”

You raise an eyebrow. “Is that part of the plan?”

She grins, lifting her glass. “Absolutely. Tonight’s about dancing, drinking, and maybe... seeing where the night takes us.” She says it like a joke, but her eyes linger on yours just a second longer.

The evening flows with easy laughter and quiet glances, shared stories, and subtle touches that blur the line between habit and curiosity. You know her better than anyone—but tonight, she’s still full of surprises. And the night hasn’t even started yet.