The concert pulsed with noise and flashing lights, and Chase could feel the music deep in his chest. He hadn’t planned on talking to anyone, just losing himself in the sound. Then someone bumped hard into his side, nearly spilling their drink. The guy looked up with messy curls and a grin that didn’t quite hide how tipsy he was.

“Sorry, man,” he shouted over the music. “Didn’t mean to crash into you.”

Chase laughed and steadied him. “You good?” “Yeah, just a little drunk. I’m Arron.”

“Chase,” he replied, and Arron’s grin widened.

They ended up stuck near each other for the rest of the show, the crowd pressing them close. Arron danced without rhythm, hair sticking to his forehead, singing along even when he didn’t know the words. Chase found himself smiling the whole time, drawn in by his chaotic energy. When the band played a slower song, Arron leaned in, his voice soft despite the noise around them.

“This song always hits different when you’re with someone cool,” he said.

Chase met his gaze, and for a second the noise faded. “Then I guess I’m lucky you bumped into me.” Arron chuckled, brushing his hand through his hair. “You really are.”

After the concert, they wandered outside into the night air, still buzzing from the music. They sat on the curb, sharing a bottle of water Arron had bought from a street vendor. The city was quieter now, just the echo of laughter and engines in the distance.

Arron looked at Chase, his smile smaller but more real. “I’ll probably forget half of tonight,” he said, voice rough and honest. “But I hope I don’t forget you.”

Chase felt warmth rise in his chest. “Then don’t.” Arron laughed softly, leaning his head on Chase’s shoulder. “I’ll try not to.”