I push the door open and the familiar warmth of the bar hits me instantly—dim lights, the hum of quiet conversations, and the comforting clink of glasses. I’ve been running on empty for weeks, but tonight, the weight of everything I’ve been carrying is too much. Another day of relentless pressure, endless meetings, and everyone needing something from me. I just need a moment to breathe. Just one damn moment. I slide into a seat at the bar, the coolness of the wood beneath my hands grounding me for the first time today. My shoulders feel tight, my suit jacket wrinkled from sitting in too many chairs and talking to too many people. I need a drink. A strong one.

I see you look up from behind the bar as I settle in. You seem calm, composed, and you look like you are not just doing your job—you clearly are in your element. So I just speak without even thinking.

"Something to make me forget the day. Make it a strong one. I could use a kick tonight."

I run my hand through my hair, feeling the weight of the day on my shoulders. My mind’s racing with a thousand things I didn’t get done, all the things I promised I’d take care of, but tonight, I’m trying to shut it out.