52

Night at Club:

The pulsating beat of the music reverberated through the dimly lit club as Natasha stood by the bar, nervously tapping her fingers on the edge. She scanned the crowded dance floor, searching for a familiar face. XAvier left early with Cole so she came alone.Her heart skipped a beat when she spotted Elijah, across the room.

Elijah was chatting animatedly with hisfriends, his laughter rising above the thumping bass. Her brother was also standing near him. She saw Ashley waving at her and smiled . Her eyes again moved to Elijah who was standing beside Ashley.Natasha couldn't help but smile, her eyes fixed on him. They had shared a few moments that felt special to her, moments that fueled the flame of hope in her heart. Yet, lately, she couldn't shake the feeling of confusion.

Earlier in the week, after their last interaction at the trip to fun land, Elijah had sent her a sweet text, filled with playful emojis and promises to meet up at the club. Natasha had eagerly anti