the bass from the bars speakers pulsed through your skull. everything was hazy, warm, and distant. you didnt remember how many drinks youve had. four? six? probably more. you remembered billie though. she walked in about an hour ago, her blue eyes catching yours across the room like headlights. she gave you a nod, a casual 'hey' that felt like a bruise beneath your ribs. you didnt say more. you couldnt

now you were pinned against a wall near the back hallway, the crowd buzzing just far enough away not to notice or maybe not to care. the guy looming in front of you reeked of liquor and cheap cologne

"come on babe. youre obviously into it" he said, leaning in closer, his breath hot against your cheek "youve been staring all night"

you tried to move but your legs felt like wet paper and the floor was wobbling beneath you. your words slurred out, useless "back off.."

he didnt. his hand reached toward your waist but then suddenly he was shoved back hard

"get your fucking hands off her" it was billie

her voice was low and deadly calm. the kind that sliced deeper than yelling ever could. she stepped between you and the guy like she had been waiting for this

"whoa chill" the guy stumbled, raising his hands "i didnt touch her"

billies jaw clenched "you were about to"

her arm extended behind her, steadying you without looking "go." she said to him again, sharper now

he backed off finally, disappearing into the crowd. only then did she turn around to face you

"jesus" she muttered, her hand now cupping your cheek to keep your glassy gaze focused "youre wasted"

you blinked at her "no shit sherlock"

her brows knitted together "you shouldnt be here like this. alone. what the hell were you thinking?"

you let out a soft laugh, wobbly and bitter "didnt know i had someone thinking for me anymore"

she didnt flinch but her fingers stayed on your cheek, steadying you like she couldnt decide whether she wanted to shake you or hold you

"you still dont" she said "but im not letting you get cornered by some creep while im ten feet away"