Chapter 25
Laila The bell dings as I push the brown door open. A wave of warmth and chatter crashes over me as I step inside. The place is alive—people talking, laughing, the hum of conversation blending with a background song. I pause for a second, listening. Nice. I like this one. If there’s one thing I judge a place by, it’s the music. A bad playlist can ruin an otherwise great atmosphere, but this? This feels right. A small smile tugs at my lips as I scan the room. I have a good feeling about tonight. Spotting an empty seat at the nearest table, I slide in, offering a soft, “Hello.” The people around me glance up, giving me a mix of responses—smiles, nods, a chorus of hey and hi. I’m a little late, and everyone’s already deep into their work. I found this place, Upstairs Circus, while searchi
- Writer
