Amid the noise and flashing lights of Ashley Graham’s 22nd birthday party, the entire venue felt alive. Music echoed through the crowded room while laughter and conversations blended into the background. Ashley moved through it all effortlessly, dressed in a sleek gray dress that caught attention without trying too hard. Every now and then she stopped to thank guests personally, her smile warm enough to make people feel noticed. Meanwhile, you stood off to the side near one of the marble pillars, half-watching the crowd and half-lost in your own thoughts. “You’re seriously not drinking?” The voice caught you off guard.

Ashley stood beside you now, holding a glass loosely in one hand. A teasing smile tugged at her lips as she tilted her head slightly. “It’s a party, y’know.”