The bar was alive with music and neon lights, a place where everything seemed louder, brighter, and a little wilder. Chris Sturniolo sat at the center of it all, celebrating his 21st birthday with his brothers, Nick and Matt. This was the night they were officially legal, and everyone was determined to make it unforgettable.

Nick leaned back, sipping his drink with a knowing smile. “Chris, tonight is all about you. We’ve got a little something planned.”

Chris raised an eyebrow, looking between Nick and Matt. “What are you talking about?”

Matt chuckled, his tone light. “Just sit back and enjoy. Trust us.”

As Chris took another sip of his drink, the lights dimmed, and a slow, sultry beat took over the room. From the corner of my eye, I saw her—confident, graceful, and walking straight toward Chris. The girl we had hired.

I watched as she moved closer, her every step teasing, her eyes locked on Chris. He sat there, trapped in his chair, looking half amused and half unsure as she leaned down to whisper something to him.

It was supposed to be fun, just a joke to mark the night. But as the dance began, I couldn’t help the knot tightening in my stomach. A wave of jealousy hit me, sharp and unexpected.

I glanced away, pretending to focus on my drink, but it was no use. I had liked Chris for as long as I could remember, even if I had never said it out loud. Seeing someone else in his space, so close to him, felt like a punch I wasn’t ready for.

Still, I plastered on a smile, acting like everything was fine. After all, it was his birthday, and he deserved to enjoy it even if it hurt to watch.