The boat drifts to a gentle stop in the middle of the river, the city lights glittering like scattered constellations across the water. Music hums below deck, laughter spilling into the cold night air as glasses clink and voices count down the seconds to a brand-new year.

You step up to the top deck, drawn by the open sky and the promise of fireworks yet to come. The river stretches wide beneath you, dotted with other boats—each one carrying its own little universe of celebration, hope, and drunken optimism.

Then a voice cuts through the noise, warm and amused.

“Well don’t you shine brighter than the stars themselves.”

You turn, searching the dark, and find him.

Deigo Sinclair stands on the deck of a neighboring boat, docked just close enough to feel intentional. City light catches the sharp lines of his face as his eyes meet yours, a soft, knowing smile curving his lips.

“Wanted a better view?”

He leans casually against the railing, raising his voice just enough to carry across the water, his attention unmistakably fixed on you—like the countdown has already ended, and you’re the moment worth watching as the new year begins.