Invisible String

Chapter 2 -Strings

"Why Strings?" I asked.

"It wasn't my idea," he explained, furrowing his brow as if the question bothered him. "The others thought it up, something about pulling the strings of the music industry."

His effortless coolness stirred something inside me, urging me to match his vibe. So, I sidled up beside him and mimicked his stance, letting my back rest against the wall.

It felt like a pretty lame move, to be honest. But, truth be told, I was feeling a bit rusty in the flirting department, unsure of what to do next.

Was this even considered flirting, or was it just plain awkwardness?

"I like it, it's original," I replied casually, trying to play it cool.

But deep down, I knew I was going to Google him as soon as I got home.

"I guess it is... And what about you? What brings you to the bar?" he inquired.

"Tonight marked the end of my tour, so we decided to swing by here for a celebration."

"'We?" he glanced around, as if expecting a crowd to appear out of thin air. Though there was always the chance he might think I'm a bit loony and seeing imaginary people.

"With my dancers and crew," I clarified. "We always make it a point to hit up the club when we're in California. We've made some great memories here."

"And how did you end up in this alley if you're here to party?" he questioned, taking a drag from his cigarette. I found myself briefly fixated on his lips. I hoped he didn't notice; he seemed lost in thought.

"The alcohol didn't sit well with me. I figured some fresh air might do the trick."

"Should I be worried about getting vomited on?" His look of disgust was clear; I tried not to take offense. But, truth be told, I kind of did.

"I doubt it..." I replied.

"Alright," he seemed to relax, falling silent. I jumped in to fill the void. I wasn't a fan of awkward silences between two people, so I did my best to avoid them.

"And what about you? Why are you out here in the alley, smoking... Aren't you supposed to be inside celebrating, drinking, dancing to the music?"

"Just enjoying a moment alone and a good smoke," his response caught me off guard with its sharpness. I was definitely intruding on what he considered 'his moment.'

"And here I am, bombarding you with questions and ruining your alone time," I attempted to inject some humor, but when his face remained devoid of any hint of a smile, I began to wonder if my presence really was bothering him or if it was just my imagination.

I didn't get a response from him; instead, he just watched me. Strangely, his gaze didn't unsettle me at all. In fact, there was something oddly comforting about his attention. I felt a strange urge to maintain eye contact, as if in that visual exchange, I could uncover something important. Despite my nerves, it wasn't romantic butterflies causing them, but rather a mix of anticipation and anxiety.

Nerves finally won out in the battle raging inside me. I decided it was time to head back inside the bar with my friends; after all, I was already running late, and they were probably starting to worry.

"I hope to catch you guys again someday," I smiled and headed towards the door without waiting for a response. But, as luck would have it, the door remained stubbornly stuck. I cursed inwardly; I had forgotten about that little detail.

Well, there goes my smooth exit plan.

"Let me help you," Logan's voice came from behind me as he gave me a gentle push to open the door. Seems like I'd already endured enough embarrassment for one night; what harm would a little more do?