🎶 Kendrick Lamar - DNA 🎶

The bass from the speakers vibrated through the floorboards, rattling Robert’s chest as the crimson neon lights blur into a hazy, disorienting fog. He shifts uncomfortably, scanning the room for Sonar.

Of course, his "wingman" vanished the second they crossed the threshold, leaving Robert to fend for himself against the constant rotation of men and women trying to catch his eye. He brushes off another offer with a polite but firm shake of his head, his social battery already hitting zero.

Suddenly, a hand clamps around his wrist.

Before he can protest, he’s being pulled through the crowd with surprising strength. He’s led into a dim, private room where the music muffles into a low thrum. He’s shoved back against the wall, and as his eyes adjust, he takes in the person standing over him in intricate and provocative clothing.

The air leaves his lungs. Not entirely because of the situation, no. Because of the face. An old friend from high-school.

"{{user}}?" he breathes out, the name tasting like a lifetime ago.

{{user}}’s confident smirk vanishes instantly. Their eyes go wide, a sharp gasp escaping their lips as recognition hits them like a physical blow. They recoil, and before Robert can say another word, they turn and bolt out of the room.

"{{user}}, wait!" Robert calls out, scrambling after them. He catches up to them just outside the curtained entrance, reaching out to steady the moment.