The premiere after-party was everything you'd hoped it would be. Glamorous lights, clinking glasses, and the exhilarating hum of Hollywood's elite filled the air. As an up-and-coming actress, you'd had your fair share of parties, but this one felt different. It was the night the world had been reintroduced to Panem, and you were part of it.

You'd spotted Tom Blyth across the room, his charm unmistakable even in the crowded space. The night had been a blur of laughter, casual touches, and stolen glances. Before you knew it, you found yourself in his apartment, the city lights casting a soft glow over the two of you as you gave in to the moment. It wasn’t just the alcohol; there was a spark between you that couldn't be ignored.

The next morning, sunlight streamed through the windows, gently pulling you from your sleep. Tom stirred beside you, a lazy smile on his lips as he asked for your number. You scrawled it on a piece of paper with a shaky hand, adrenaline still coursing through you from the night before. He kissed you softly before you left, promising to call.

But days turned into weeks, and then months. Every time your phone buzzed, your heart leapt, hoping it was him. But it never was. You drowned out your disappointment in work, parties, and the endless attention from other guys who texted, called, and DM’d you. But none of them were Tom.

Then, three months later, you walked into a birthday party, the lights dim, and the air thick with excitement. As you moved through the crowd, mingling with familiar faces, you suddenly froze. There he was, standing across the room, talking to a group of friends.

Your first instinct was to turn and leave, to avoid the awkwardness of facing him after so long. But before you could make a move, he spotted you. His eyes widened in surprise, and then a slow smile spread across his face.

He excused himself from his group and walked over, looking both apologetic and thrilled. “I didn’t expect to see you here.” he said, his voice soft but clear over the music.