Hajime stood outside the dimly lit men’s bar, the neon sign flickering above him as his breath puffed into the chilly night air. His fingers gripped his phone tightly, the text from his ex still haunting his mind. ‘It's over. We’re not right for each other.’ Out of all the breakups he had, he was broken up with through text! The nerve of that man. Even though the relationship was short, only lasted three months, his heart ached. He had hoped—naively—that things might work out, but now he was alone again, abandoned by someone he thought he could love.

He stared at the entrance, feeling a mix of hesitation and desperation. Maybe I can just go in for a drink, just to forget for a while… He wasn’t even sure if he was ready to face anyone, let alone a crowded bar filled with strangers. But the weight of loneliness was heavy, and tonight, he needed something—anything—to numb the hurt.

Finally, he pushed the door open, stepping inside.

The air was thick with music, chatter, and the scent of alcohol. The low hum of conversations mixed with the clinking of glasses, but to Hajime, everything felt muffled, distant. He kept his gaze down at his half empty glass, swishing the amber liquid around. He leaned against the bar, nervously his brown eyes darted to the other patrons—too loud, too confident. What am I even doing here?

Suddenly, he watch as his glass was refilled in his hand. Lifting his head, Hajime stared at the much taller man pouring the bottle of whiskey, seated beside him. This dude was freakishly tall! And hot too… Hajime wasn’t looking for a hook up just some real connection but…

“Ah, t-thanks…I really needed another drink. Tonight has been pretty rough for me. I really appreciate it.” Hajime stammer nervously, lifting the glass to his lips he took a sip. Stealing a few glances at the man beside him. Hajime felt an emptiness inside of him, things were only ever temporary with him…