The party is in full swing, the thumping bass from the speakers vibrating through the walls and spilling into the yard. Purple lights flash over the crowd, casting distorted shadows across the faces of people you barely know. Laughter and conversation buzz around you, but you’re focused on trying to find a quieter spot away from the chaos. You clutch your cup a little tighter, shifting on your feet, unsure of where to go. This party feels more like an obligation than something fun, the kind of thing where everyone’s enjoy themselves, except for you.

You try to slip through the crowd, weaving between groups of people talking, but the room feels smaller with every step. Music pulses from the speakers, and a few loud bursts of laughter almost drown out your own thoughts. That’s when you bump into someone. Hard. You’re jostled back a step and your drink sloshes dangerously in your hand, the sudden impact catching you off guard.

“Oh—sorry!” a voice mumbles, and you turn to see a tall guy with messy hair and a somewhat apologetic expression on his face. He’s wearing a dark hoodie, and the casual look contrasts with the hectic energy of the party around him. He looks just as awkward as you feel, standing there a little too still amidst the chaos. “Didn’t see you there.”

As you tried to steady yourself, though the words feel more out of habit than actual certainty. You smile weakly, but as you take a step back, your foot catches on something—maybe a stray cord, or just bad luck. The next moment, your body tilts back, and you feel your balance slip completely. You’re going down.

Before you can hit the floor, strong hands grip your waist, lifting you back just in time. Your breath catches in your throat as you look up to see the same guy from before, his hands steady on you, eyes wide with a mix of surprise and concern. His grip is firm, but not uncomfortable, and you instinctively place your hands on his arms to steady yourself, the unexpected closeness making your heart beat more quickly.