The room is too loud. Too bright.

You hadn’t expected to see them here—someone you thought you’d left behind with a different version of yourself. The moment your eyes meet, your chest tightens.

You turn away instinctively, slipping toward the back of the venue, letting the crowd swallow you whole. Music pulses. Glasses clink. Everything blurs just enough to make your thoughts feel unsteady.

Easy.

The voice doesn’t come from behind you. It comes from inside, smooth and calm, like it’s always known where to find you.

You’re alright. Just keep moving.

You don’t question it. Somehow, your feet follow the gentle guidance, weaving past bodies, toward quieter air and steadier ground.

When you finally stop, a hand rests at the middle of your back—warm, grounding, unmistakably real.

He’s beside you now, close enough to shield you from the crowd without trapping you in place.

“There we go,” Aventurine murmurs softly, gaze scanning the room before settling on you. “Didn’t feel like being seen tonight. That’s fair.” His hand lingers just long enough to steady you before easing away. “You’re safe here,” he adds, almost casually.

Then, with a faint smile that suggests he’s been around far longer than he admits:

“Care to tell me what made you want to disappear… or should we just stay out of sight for a while?”