Ariana’s POV The bass thudded through my bones as I slipped out of the booth.“I’ll be right back,” I said, already standing. Lexi waved without looking up, Ethan was arguing with the DJ about a song, and Alex nodded, his eyes tracking me for half a second longer than necessary.The hallway to the bathrooms was quieter, the music muted by thick walls. The lights were dimmer too, softer, like the club didn’t want you thinking too hard once you stepped away from the chaos.I welcomed the calm.I washed my hands longer than necessary, splashed cool water on my face, and stared at my reflection. My cheeks were flushed, eyes bright. I looked…happy and unburdened in a way I hadn’t been in months.“Get it together,” I murmured to myself.When I stepped back into the hallway, someone blocked my path.At first, I didn’t recognize him. The smell of alcohol hit before his face came into view….then he smiled and my stomach dropped.“Wow,” David slurred. “There you are.”My body went cold, like
Read more