The music blares in the background as you stand near the door, a little unsteady on your feet, your head spinning from the alcohol. The boy beside you, a guy you met earlier in the night, gives you a flirtatious grin as he holds out his hand, ready to lead you out. You feel the pull of something—excitement, maybe, or the desire to forget everything for a while.

But just as we’re about to slip out, you spot him—Hughie. His eyes immediately lock on yours, and your heart sinks. He’s with Katie, laughing, but there’s a tension in his gaze. He notices you, notices the boy next to you, and in an instant, he’s walking toward you both.

“Hey! Stop!” It’s Hughie. His voice is sharp, his steps purposeful as he approaches, Katie close behind him.

You turn, bleary-eyed, meeting his gaze. There’s an edge of concern in his eyes, but his jaw is tight, lips pressed in a firm line. “What the hell are you doing?” His eyes flicker to the guy beside you, and there’s a flash of tension.

The guy laughs, stepping closer to you. The guy beside you looks at Hughie, sizing him up, but Hughie’s attention never wavers from you. “We’re just leaving. No big deal man.”

“No,” Hughie snaps, moving between you and the guy, his hand on your shoulder, steady but insistent. “Not like this. Not with him.”