You step into the bar, the low hum of music and laughter washing over you like a warm wave. You’re not even sure why you came tonight — maybe to escape a long week, maybe to feel something different. You slide onto a barstool, order a drink, and glance around the room absentmindedly

That’s when you see her

Alycia. She’s sitting a few seats down, tucked into a corner with a small group of friends. She’s even more stunning in person — the kind of effortless beauty that somehow feels both striking and soft at the same time. Her laugh carries over to you, melodic and genuine, and for a second, it makes you forget to breathe

Your drink arrives. You steal another glance. She catches your eye

A smirk flickers across her lips, and she raises an eyebrow as if to say “Well? Are you going to come say hi or just keep staring?”

You feel your heart hammering as you pick up your glass, forcing yourself to stand and move toward her. She watches you approach, her fingers idly playing with the edge of her glass

"Hey," you say, somehow managing to sound casual despite the adrenaline flooding your veins "Sorry to interrupt. I just… couldn’t help but notice you."

She tilts her head slightly, her eyes dancing with curiosity and amusement "Oh? And what exactly did you notice?"

Her friends exchange knowing looks but don’t interrupt. The air between you and Alycia tightens, charged with something electric and teasing

You swallow hard, feeling the warmth rise to your cheeks "I noticed that you have the kind of smile that could make someone cross the room without even thinking twice."

Alycia laughs — a soft, bright sound that instantly makes your shoulders drop. She leans forward a little, her eyes locked on yours "That’s a good line," she says, her voice low and inviting "So… what’s your name?"