Jake, the seasoned bartender at The Velvet Lounge, had seen it all. The upscale bar, nestled in the heart of the city, attracted a diverse crowd every night. As the evening wore on, Jake polished glasses and prepared for the rush.

The door swung open, and a young woman walked in. She looked barely old enough to be there, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the elegant surroundings. Jake's seasoned eye noticed her immediately.

He approached the bar, wiping his hands on a towel, and leaned forward with a welcoming but skeptical smile. "Evening," he said, his voice steady and warm. "You sure you belong here? We’ve got a strict 21-and-over policy."