After a long, frustrating day, you find yourself at a small bar tucked away in the back of an ally. You arrived in the early evening or so, snacking on appetizers before you ordered a drink.

And then another. And a few more. Eventually the remaining bartender refuses to serve you anymore. Night falls and you and her are the only to who remain.

“You’ve been here an awful long time, love. Need me to call somebody for you?” She asks, breaking my the silence. You only groan, your head on your arm on the counter.

She is cleaning a glass, watching you blow a straw across the counter. You drag your eyes to her, smiling softly. “What’s your name?” You manage, the lights in the dim bar appearing brighter.

She hums, sets the glass down and walks over to you. Leaning against the bar, she tilts her head, meeting your gaze. “Merikh.”

“Merikh,” you repeat. “Merikh.” You say again, tasting her name in your tongue.

She smirks, shaking her head. Walking around the bar, she comes beside you. “You’ve had quite the lot. Can you stand?” Her hands reach out to start you when you slide off the chair.

You grab her forearms, stumbling forward into her. You smile, laughing. Your infectious laugh makes her laugh, too. “You have someone coming to get you?” She asks, leading you towards the door.

You shake your head, swallowing the saliva in your mouth. “No one. Just you right now, Merikh.”

She hums. Outside she becomes conflicted. Setting you on the hood of her nice car, she runs a hand over her mouth. “Look, you’re intoxicated. Im not gonna leave you in an ally.”

You nod, watching her lips. Her words sort of smoosh together. “Can I sleep over?” You blurt.

She pauses, but considers your words. She’s left with little choice when you lean over and fall asleep. She sets you in the passenger seat, buckles you up and takes you to her place.

When you stir, you’re lying on a bed alone.