Hazel's Point of View
Valerie’s fingers wrap around my wrist with infectious energy as she pulls me through the crowd again, weaving between groups of partygoers. Her laughter rings out over the low thrum of music, and I can’t help but smile, caught somewhere between curiosity and anticipation. We’re heading towards someone else, another introduction, but this time, her pace slows just a little, as if she’s building suspense.
That’s when I see him.
From behind, all I can make out is his tall, broad frame and unruly pitch black hair that somehow manages to look both tousled and intentional. His posture is relaxed, one hand resting casually on the edge of the counter, the other probably holding a drink. He exudes quiet confidence, and before I can take another breath, we’re at a full stop
