The music thumped through the dimly lit club, a relentless beat that matched the pulse in my veins. I spotted her across the room, standing with the kind of quiet confidence that demanded attention. She didn’t need the flashy outfit or the practiced charm; she was the main event. And now, for the first time in years, she was within reach.

I made my way over, weaving through the crowd until I stood beside her. She turned, eyebrow arched, already bracing for whatever line I had planned.

“I don’t play games, baby,” I said, leaning in close enough for her to hear over the music. “I was only a player because you were unavailable.”

Her lips parted slightly, but she didn’t answer right away. She just stared, like she was trying to figure out if I was still bluffing—or finally playing for keeps.