Dion -Reluctantly, I stepped out of the sleek, black car, and my eyes scanned the vibrant neon lights adorning the entrance of the pulsating club. Alessia followed suit. She had insisted on a night out like the old times. I had no idea why I had agreed to her demands.The noise level inside the club was crazy, with people dancing and laughing and the music pounding. The smells of booze and sweat mixed, making an offensive smell that annoyed my already sensitive feelings. I agreed to go with Alessia, but I really didn't want to. For me, the bars were no longer appealing; instead, they left me with an ache that wouldn't go away.As we found a dimly lit corner to settle into, Alessia ordered a couple of drinks. I leant back, trying to blend into the background, my attention fixed on the swirling lights above. My mind, however, was a tempest of conflicting thoughts.Alessia, sensing my detachment, nudged me gently. "Loosen up, Dion. We're here to have fun, remember?"I forced a smile as

Dion -I gripped the steering wheel with a ferocious intensity that made my knuckles white. Anger seethed beneath the surface, a potent mix of frustration and resentment. Kiana was there, but she had slipped through my fingers once again.Alessia's incessant crying from the passenger seat only served to stoke the flames of my rage. Each wail felt like a dagger piercing through my already thin patience."For the love of Luna, Alessia, can you please just shut up?" I snapped, my voice laced with irritation.A trembling whimper temporarily replaced her crying. "I'm sorry," she stammered, fear evident in her voice. "I just... I just wanted to give you a good time.""A good time?" I scoffed incredulously. "I never asked for a 'good time'. Just do your duties and stay out of my life."Alessia recoiled at my harsh words, tears welling up in her eyes once more. "But... our mums were best friends," she pleaded, desperation colouring her voice. "You should take better care of me, Dion. You owe