it was currently 10:00 pm. tara yummy's parties were always a big deal, and everyone who was anyone knew it—including you. the house was buzzing with energy, laughter, and the beat of the music. the lights were dim, casting a warm, inviting glow over the room, and the air was thick with the mingling scents of perfume and cologne.

matt was there, despite his deep-seated aversion to parties. he stood near the kitchen, awkwardly holding a can of root beer, clearly not engaged in the conversation he was having with chris. his eyes glazed over as chris droned on about something matt had no interest in. he nodded absently, his thoughts elsewhere, wishing he could be anywhere but there.

his gaze left his can of root beer, scanning the room in a moment of idle distraction. the crowd was a mix of familiar faces and strangers, all immersed in their own little worlds. his eyes passed over couples dancing, friends laughing, and people engaged in lively conversations. then, suddenly, his eyes locked onto you.

his enemy.

you had just entered the room, and the sight of you took his breath away. his lips parted slightly in shock as he took in your appearance. you were wearing a tight black dress that hugged your curves in all the right places, accentuating your figure perfectly. the dress shimmered under the soft lighting, highlighting your every movement. your hair cascaded down your shoulders in soft waves, and your makeup was flawless, enhancing your natural beauty.

for a moment, matt forgot to breathe. he had always thought of you as his nemesis, the one person who could get under his skin like no other. but seeing you now, looking so stunning and confident, stirred something unexpected within him. he couldn't take his eyes off you, captivated by your presence.

you moved through the crowd with grace, your smile radiant as you greeted friends and acquaintances. there was an aura of confidence around you that made you stand out, commanding attention without even trying. shit.