Pink cocktails and green monsters

The moment I walked through the club’s entrance earlier, I’m engulfed by a kaleidoscope of flashing lights that sync with the pounding bass of the music. Neon strobes dart across the ceiling, casting an eerie yet thrilling glow over the energetic crowd. The entire place pulses with an irresistible energy that beckons everyone to move to the rhythm.

The club’s interior design is a fascinating blend of modern aesthetics and gothic sensibilities. Black leather couches line the edges of the room, their sleekness contrasting with the intricate wrought-iron fixtures and dark wood accents. Oversized chandeliers hang from the ceiling, their warm, soft light offsetting the intense glow of the dance floor. They adorn the walls with edgy artwork, adding to the club’s visually stimulating ambiance.

Very stimulating. The abrupt snatch of Liam by the fiery redhead leaves me feeling like a child who’s had her lollipop swiped, lost and unsure of how to react. My fingers clench into tight fists. I know I shouldn’t be offended. Liam isn’t my boyfriend, after all. Still, a surge of anger rises towards the unknown girl. Who is she, anyway? And does Liam have a girlfriend or a roster of secret dates he’s kept hidden? Why am I even feeling this way?

A server drifts my way, and seeing my empty glass, he swiftly replaces it with a charming pink cocktail adorned with a strawberry carved with a smiling face. My lips curve into a smile as I thank the server.

“Perfect timing, bro… thanks.”

The server gives me a cheerful salute and zooms to the next table.

I take a sip of the eye-catching cocktail. Although it’s hard to determine what flavors are in it, I think it’s yummy. But as I settle the glass back on the table, my eyes wander over the dance floor, trying to find Liam in the crowd.

I let out a sharp breath. If he didn’t really want to dance with that girl, he’d be returning to his seat in no time. But it’s not happening. He said I’m his date tonight… not happening, either.

Before I can untangle the jumble of my thoughts, Sarah and Anya swoop in, their faces reflecting the same bewilderment mirrored in my own expression.

“The nerve of that bletch!” Anya’s voice is almost drowned out by the pounding music. “Don’t worry, Liv. I’ll sort her out.”

Sarah, with an eye roll and a shake of her head, steps in. “I warned you, Liv. Roni has a knack for snaring Liam with her claws. Don’t let her spoil your night.”

“Oh… so, that’s Roni…”

“Yes, darling… that’s the Roni we were telling you about,” Anya says, jerking her chin up. “See? Am I psychic or what? But don’t feel so bad, Liv. Don’t give Roni the satisfaction of winning.”

I put on a brave face, forcing a chuckle. “Wh-what are you guys talking about? I’m fine... Liam can dance with whoever he likes. Besides, I’m not—”

“No way! Come on, let’s dance.” Sarah grabs my hand, Anya taking the other, and they whisk me onto the dance floor.

Resisting feels like it would make things more awkward, and I don’t want to cause a scene. The music pulses, and Sarah and Anya’s infectious party spirit sweeps me up. I decide to let loose, allowing my hair to fall free, and just enjoy the night, with or without Liam.

Glow sticks and LED accessories flash and twirl through the air, creating a dazzling display of colors. It’s a sea of faces, each one painted with excitement and immersed in the music. The thumping beats reverberate through my body, making my heart race in harmony with the rhythm.

The atmosphere is electric, charged with the promise of an unforgettable night. Fellow students at the uni have gathered here, and their eclectic styles and personalities create a captivating spectacle. Laughter and shouts blend seamlessly with the music, forming a symphony of celebration.

Amid the vibrant crowd, Sarah and Anya, the hosts of the party, are like shining stars. They move gracefully through the throng, greeting friends and acquaintances with boundless enthusiasm. Their laughter is contagious, spreading like wildfire and elevating the party to new heights.

As I take in the scene, I feel like I’ve stepped into a different world, one where worries and responsibilities no longer hold sway. The energy of the party is irresistible, drawing me in, despite my usual inclination to avoid such gatherings.

Every corner of the club holds a fresh adventure. There’s a VIP section where guests lounge in luxurious comfort, sipping on colorful cocktails. On the dance floor, bodies move in a mesmerizing display of freedom. Some dance with wild abandon, while others sway sensually to the music’s sultry tempo.

Servers weave skillfully through the crowd, offering trays of drinks and delectable appetizers. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of cocktails, perfumes, and colognes, creating an intoxicating sensory experience.

It’s a night of revelry, a brief escape from the demands of everyday life. I can’t help but get swept up in the spirit of the party. The Dungeon Club has transformed into a realm of pure entertainment and liberation. Time seems to stand still, and every moment is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories.

As we sway and bounce to the rhythm, I realize I’m actually having fun. Then a glance to the side catches my eye. Nikko, partially hidden behind a forest of cymbals on the drum set, steals glances at me between each rhythmic beat. His concentration is palpable, his face a portrait of intensity. The way his hands move with the drumsticks is mesmerizing, a graceful dance of precision and passion. The music molds to his touch, and for a moment, I’m entranced by the artistry of his performance.

I catch Nikko’s eye and offer him a radiant smile, punctuating it with an enthusiastic thumbs-up. His response is a seductive grin, complete with a tantalizing nibble on his lower lip. My heart flutters momentarily.

But like a moth drawn to a flame, I can’t help but turn my head towards the dance floor, where Liam and Roni are entwined. My eyebrows shoot up to my hairline in surprise. They’re locked in a passionate kiss. Sarah, noticing my reaction, nudges me with a knowing smile. “Don’t pay them any mind, Liv. Just keep dancing.”

I quickly avert my gaze, focusing on the drummer up on the stage. The pounding rhythm washes over me, and I throw myself into the dance, allowing the music to absorb my pent-up energy.

The band on stage takes a well-deserved break, handing the reins of entertainment over to an alternate group with their own brand of electrifying rock.

The alternate band seamlessly takes over the stage, injecting fresh energy into the atmosphere, ensuring the fun and music continue uninterrupted.

Worn out from all the dancing, I decide to take a breather. I leave Sarah and Anya on the dance floor and return to our table for a much-needed drink. Leaning against the edge, I catch my breath. It’s a brief respite, and I half-expect Liam to join me. To my surprise, it’s Nikko who slides into the seat beside me, a bottle of water in hand.

“I hope you enjoyed our music,” he offers, taking a sip.

“You guys were amazing,” I enthuse. “Can’t you see? Everyone’s having a blast. Your music’s a hit.”

He chuckles. “I was watching you from the stage. It occurred to me, we’ve crossed paths on campus countless times, but I don’t really know anything about you... except that you’re a friend of Sarah.”

I’m thrilled to realize Nikko had been thinking of me while he was up there, pouring his heart into the performance. “Yeah, I guess I’m not much of a social butterfly,” I admit.

To my further surprise, Nikko leans in and says, “Maybe it’s high time we changed that. Want to dance?”

My heart flutters. “Sure... I’d love to.”

He takes my hand, and together we make our way back to the dance floor. As we move, I consciously steer my thoughts away from Liam. It’s time to give my full attention to the person right in front of me—Nikko, whose gaze feels like it’s delving into the very core of me.