You’re laughing with your friends, half-distracted by the music and the buzz of conversation, when your gaze catches on someone across the room — someone you didn’t expect to see here.

Joe Alwyn.

For a second, your breath catches. It’s been a while, but that familiar calm confidence of his is impossible to miss. He notices you almost immediately, a slow grin tugging at his lips as he starts making his way over.

"Well, this is a surprise," he murmurs once he’s close enough, his voice low and smooth. "Didn’t think I’d see you here tonight."

He leans in slightly — not enough to cross a line, but just enough for you to feel the subtle warmth radiating from him. His cologne lingers in the air between you, faint and intoxicating.

"You look good," he adds, his eyes flicking over you with quiet amusement. "Better than I remember."