episode 6: Marking territory
717 Words
The bass pulsed through the walls, a steady rhythm that made Tania’s chest vibrate. People moved like liquid—dancing, laughing, clinking cups in dim golden light.
She stuck close to the wall, scanning the room until she heard:
“No way.”
Eliot stood by the hallway entrance, eyes wide, mouth slightly open. He did a double take like she’d just walked out of a different universe.
“You?” he said, approaching with a surprised grin. “Didn’t think this was your kind of scene.”
Tania smirked, arms crossed. “You mean—loud music, strangers, sticky floors, and sweaty air? Total dream.”
He laughed. “You’re funny. I like that.” His eyes scanned her outfit. “Damn. You clean up nice, Tania.”
She raised an eyebrow, playing it cool.
“You saying I didn’t look nice before?”
“No, no,” he said, hand raised dramatically. “Just… now you look like trouble. The good kind.”
They both laughed.
But as Tania glanced over Eliot’s shoulder, she noticed a pair of girls across the room watching her. One had curly burgundy hair and a sleek crop top. The other—tan skin, glossed lips, and sharp-lined eyes—whispered something to her friend, then looked directly at Tania with a small, unreadable smile.
Tania leaned in slightly. “Okay, so… am I crazy or are those girls burning a hole in my head with their eyes?”
Eliot followed her gaze, then shrugged casually. “Ignore them. People stare. You’re new, you're hot, they're bored.” He nudged her lightly. “Come on, let me grab us drinks. What do you want?”
“Anything fruity,” she replied, still distracted. He winked and disappeared into the crowd.
Seconds later, Zara and Heather materialized beside her, eyes wide.
“Okay, what is happening?” Zara whispered, leaning in like it was a secret mission. “That guy is so, so hot and he’s talking to you? I’m so excited.”
Heather took a sip from her flask. “She pulled a fine one, y’all. You’re officially one of us now.”
Tania rolled her eyes, half-laughing. “Can you guys chill? We’re just talking.”
“Girl,” Zara said, fanning herself with one hand. “Talking? The way he was looking at you? Please.”
Tania laughed, shaking her head. “I’ll be right back,” she said. “Bathroom run.”
---
The upstairs hallway was quieter, lit by soft yellow bulbs. She found the bathroom, splashed her face lightly, and tried not to overthink.
You’re not here for drama, remember? she reminded herself. Just fun. Just new.
On her way back down the stairs, lost in her thoughts, she turned the corner—and bumped directly into someone.
“Oh!” Tania exclaimed. “Sorry—”
The other girl took a quick step back, smiling. Slim, tan, glossy pink lips, and eyes lined sharp. Familiar. Too familiar.
Tania realized she was one of the girls who’d been staring earlier.
“My bad,” the girl said smoothly. “Didn’t see you there.”
They both chuckled politely.
“I’m Taylor,” she added, holding out a manicured hand.
“Tania.”
Taylor tilted her head. “You’re new, right? Haven’t seen your face around.”
“Yeah—newbie,” Tania replied, chuckling. “Still finding my way around.”
Taylor smiled wider. “Cool. Welcome.” Then, without missing a beat, she added:
“So, tiny piece of advice… That guy you were chatting with downstairs? Eliot?”
Tania blinked. “…Yeah?”
Taylor’s smile didn’t waver. “He’s my man. Just… marking my territory.” She winked, the words syrupy and sweet, but sharp underneath.
And then she turned, heels clicking as she descended the stairs like she owned them.
Tania stood frozen for a second, heartbeat skipping, smile fading.
Drama. Day 1. Check.
She took a slow breath, then made her way back to the party, her mind buzzing louder than the music.
she didn't even know him_ why did that sting a little!!!?
- Writer
