Joker's Warning & Bold Dance

The bar's soft golden lights created an inviting atmosphere as I swirled the wine in my glass. The faint hum of conversations filled the air, blending with the light jazz playing in the background. I leaned back on the barstool, watching the crowd from my corner, savoring the taste of the red wine. It wasn't often that I indulged in such luxuries. 

"Mind if I sit here?" a voice asked, pulling me out of my thoughts. 

I turned to see a guy in his mid-twenties, casually dressed in a white shirt with the top buttons undone and a silver chain hanging loosely around his neck. His dark hair was slightly messy, but his confident smile made it clear he didn't care much about appearances. 

"Go ahead," I replied, gesturing to the empty stool beside me. 

"I'm John," he said, extending a hand. 

"Austin," I said, shaking it firmly. 

"So, what brings you here?" he asked, signaling the bartender for a drink.