Manic [h.s]

#011

"So let me slip inside your ultraviolet disguise"

Tonight You Are Mine | The Technicolors

January 30, 1999

IRIS XANDER

"I'm still not sure about this," I hear Niall mutter from behind as we saunter into the bar. The joint appears to be somewhat less packed today but I know this place is gonna be swarming with hammered people the moment the sun takes a hike.

"Hey," I hear the uncertain voice of a familiar figure, Niall and I turning our heads in unison towards the source of the voice. Brian stands there in his waiter attire, a surprised grin playing at the edges of his mouth.

"Hey," I reply with a smile.

"I'm not sure if you remember me," he says.

"I do. Brian, right?" I ask and his smile widens, nodding at my question.

"You went missing the other day. I was worried about you," he says and I raise my eyebrows in amusement.

"Oh?" I ask with an awkward smile, ignoring Niall's confused look. Brain is smiling at me, however, his smile fades when he spots the man standing beside me.

"Well, anyway, take a seat," he points awkwardly toward one of the booths. "Can I get you anything?"

"No, it's alright. We're good. Thanks," I say.

"Well, suit yourself. Call me if you need any help!"" Brian shrugs, flashing a smile before leaving us on our own.

"I was worried about you," Niall mimics and I roll my eyes in response.

"Zip it, Niall," I mutter.

"Who is that kid anyway?" he asks.

"I have no clue," I shrug dismissively. "Just a waiter working in here, or at least that's what I assume," I say and Niall nods as his blue eyes scan the interior, his hands resting on his pockets.

I glance around the bar, my eyes eventually locking on a familiar redhead. He stands on the opposite side of the counter, his tattooed hands diligently polishing a glass. He doesn't seem to notice me, his eyes fixed on the glass.

Losing interest, I shift my attention away and focus on the familiar door adjacent to the bar. "Come on," I nudge Niall with my elbow. He's confused, but follows me nonetheless. 

Reaching the door, I twist the doorknob. Luckily, it's unlocked. We step into the empty corridor and I halt when I spot Brian standing by the door at the farthest end, his eyes narrowed.

"Wait. You're not supposed to be in here," he says, suddenly panicked as if it's his own fault that we managed to sneak inside.

Right on cue, the door creaks open as Meredith peers into the corridor. She looks at us with a dull expression plastered on her face. "I was expecting you," she mutters, causing Brian's eyes to widen in surprise.

"You know her?" he asks and Meredith rolls her eyes.

"Quit dawdling, Brian," she says dismissively. She then turns her attention towards us, signalling for us to follow her.

I do as she says, and Brian steps aside, creating a path for us to walk through. I offer him a smile but he remains expressionless, his face consumed by confusion. Moments later he silently walks away, not uttering a single word.