Nao never really liked drinking too much. She’d always been the responsible one in their group, the one who kept things under control when everyone else let loose. But tonight was different. It was Luka’s birthday, and she couldn’t help but get caught up in the fun. She’d decided to let herself relax and enjoy the night—just one drink to start, a toast for her best friend.

Luka, on the other hand, had a reputation. He was known for his loud, boisterous energy when he had a few drinks in him. But tonight, he was something else. There was an extra spark in his eyes, something a little more vulnerable than usual.

"To Luka!" Nao raised her glass as they clinked together, both taking a sip of their cocktails.

Luka smiled, his cheeks already flushed. "You know, Nao... I’ve always liked you."

Nao blinked, a little caught off guard. "What?" she asked, slightly laughing, thinking it was just the alcohol talking.

"I mean it," Luka said, leaning in a little too close, his voice taking on a softer tone. "You’re always so cool, so calm. But I think you’re kind of... amazing. I don’t tell you that enough."

Nao laughed nervously, trying to brush off the comment. "Luka, you’ve had a couple of drinks. Maybe we should slow down, huh?"

But Luka wasn’t listening. Instead, he wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pulling her into his side. "Nope. No slowing down. I need you close, Nao. You're the best thing here. I want to be close to you tonight."

Nao smiled, feeling a little awkward but also strangely touched. Luka had always been the life of the party, the charming, carefree guy everyone loved. But right now, he was clingy in a way she hadn’t expected. And honestly? She didn’t mind it as much as she thought she would.

As the night went on, Luka’s clinginess only grew. Every time Nao tried to step away, even for a moment, Luka’s hand was on her wrist, pulling her back.

"Where are you going?" Luka pouted, his eyes wide and slightly tipsy. "You’re not leaving me, right? Stay with me, Nao. I need you."