NMW I Love You

Chapter 36 Enchanted Revelry

It was a balmy Friday night and this was, for many in Dublin, a night solely meant for enjoyment, gatherings and radiating bliss and excitement everywhere. Imogen's parents and Bryce's parents had jointly decided to host a celebratory gathering in the cozy confines of Imogen's flat.

Meanwhile, Imogen, Bryce, and their close-knit group of friends had something grander in mind. They chose Bryce's exquisite house in the picturesque neighborhood of Stoneybatter as the venue for their revelry, confident that it could accommodate their desire for a night of fun and merriment.

Bryce had reached out to Imogen the night before the party with a cheerful call.
Bryce: Heyo! How's everything?
Imogen: Hey, Bryce! Things are pretty good. What about you?
Bryce: Oh, you know, just getting ready for tomorrow.
Imogen: Tomorrow? What's happening?
Bryce: Well, as luck would have it, our parents are planning a little gathering at your place.
Imogen: Yes, I'm well aware of that. So, what's the craic?
Bryce: Since our parents are taking over your place, I thought we could have our own party at my house.
Imogen: Your house? Are you sure about this?
Bryce: Of course! It's the perfect opportunity. We can have the place all to ourselves and really let loose.
Imogen: That sounds tempting, but are you sure it's a good idea?
Bryce: Trust me, it'll be a blast. Plus, we've been due for a fun night for ages.
Imogen: True, it has been a while since we had a proper party.
Bryce: Exactly! And you know how much my friends love your presence. It'll make the party even better.
Imogen : laughs Flattery will get you everywhere, Bryce.
Bryce: Well, it's the truth. You're the life of the party.
Imogen: Alright, alright. So, what's the game plan then?
Bryce: We'll set up at mine around 7PM. I'll manage the arrangements and make sure everything's ready.
Imogen: Okay, I'm in. But what about our parents? Will they be okay with this?
Bryce: Oh, they'll be at your place. And I know, they'll be swamped with their own fun. By the time they're done with their party, our party will be winding down.
Imogen: You're quite the mastermind, aren't you?
Bryce: You know it! So, consider this your official invite. Get ready to have some serious fun tomorrow.
Imogen: Count me in, Bryce. This is going to be epic!
Bryce: That's the spirit! Can't wait to see you there, Imogen.
Imogen: Likewise, Bryce. It's going to be a night to remember.
Bryce : Undoubtedly it is.
Imogen : Bryce, there's something I need to talk to you about.
Bryce: Absolutely. What's going on?
Imogen: You're aware of what Conor and I have between us, how incredibly we get along and really been hitting it off.
Bryce: Of course, I know that. Let me guess, you're thinking of having Conor join the party too, aren't you?
Imogen: laughs You're one step ahead, Bryce. Yes, I was wondering if you could invite Conor. It's just that his presence will mean the world to me. Everybody in the party will be having their boyfriend or girlfriend. I want mine to be there too.
Bryce : For you, I can do this bit. It's confirmed. Conor will be in the party too. Just give him a head-ups about the timing.
Imogen: You're a lifesaver, Bryce. Thanks a million.
Bryce: No problem, Imogen. Anything for you. See you tomorrow, then?
Imogen: Absolutely, looking forward to it. And Bryce, remember to keep it low-key. We don't want our parents find out about our party, right?
Bryce: Don't worry, it's our secret. Catch you later, Imogen.
Imogen: Bye, Bryce!

Imogen immediately phoned Conor.
Imogen: Hello, Conor! How's it going?
Conor: Hi, Imogen! Just got back home after an intense football match.
Imogen: I've got some fantastic news for you.
Conor: Really? What is it?
Imogen : Tomorrow, there's going to be a party at Conor's place. I'm going and you're invited too.
Conor: No chance I'm attending that.
Imogen: serious What are you on about? I'll be there. Can't you accompany me? He wants you to come.
Conor: I can't stand Bryce, you know that. Also, I'd be a total stranger there. I don't talk to Bryce or any of his friends.
Imogen: annoyed But why the hell do you care about Bryce and his friends? Bryce invited you for my sake. He knows how much you mean to me.
Conor: You'd better go on your own. Frankly, I don't want to go, Imogen.
Imogen: Come on, Conor. Can't you do this for your girl? I promise you won't have to chat with anyone at the party - I'll be there to keep you engaged with me.
Conor: But, Imogen, I don't know anyone.
Imogen: Do you reckon I get along with Bryce's mates? I only know them because Bryce cared to introduce me. I'm just friendly with them, not close.
Conor: Alright, for your sake, Imogen, I'll come.
Imogen: We're expected to arrive by 7PM. You'll come over to pick me up, and then we'll head there together.
Conor: Absolutely, no problem!
Imogen: Also, make sure to be amicable with Bryce if he decides to talk to you. You owe him that much.
Conor: I get you. I'll do my best.
Imogen: Thanks, Conor. I know this isn't your thing, but it means a lot to me.
Conor: I'm willing to give it a shot for you, Imogen. Just hope I won't feel too out of place.
Imogen: You won't be alone, I'll be by your side the whole time. We'll make it through together.
Imogen: That's what matters the most to me, Conor. Knowing you'll be there with me makes me feel so much better.
Conor: I'll admit, the thought of being around people I don't know makes me a bit nervous. But if it's important to you, I'll face my discomfort.
Imogen: You're incredible, Conor. I promise to stick with you throughout the party, and we'll surely find moments to enjoy together.
Conor: And I promise not to let my unease get in the way of us having a good time.
Imogen: You always manage to make me smile. Remember, you don't need to pretend or force yourself to be someone you're not. Just be yourself, and that's all I ask.
Conor: Thanks for understanding me, Imogen. You and you support mean the world to me.
Imogen: We're a team, Conor. No matter what challenges come our way, we'll stand together. And who knows, you might even end up having a better time than you expect. It's not very hard to make friends. People are nice to nice people. And consider yourself - you've literally got everything you need. A single smile from you has the power to captivate anyone. I'm confident there will be peeps who will approach you for a talk.
Conor: I'll keep an open mind and try to focus on the positive. As long as you're there, I know it'll be worthwhile.
Imogen: That's the spirit! And if at any point you start feeling overwhelmed, just let me know. We can take a breather or step outside for a while.
Conor: I appreciate that, Imogen. Having you looking out for me makes me feel so much more at ease about the whole thing.
Imogen: It's a partnership, Conor. We support each other. Now, let's look forward to tomorrow and make some great memories together.
Conor: Absolutely, Imogen. I'm actually looking forward to it now, thanks to you.
Imogen: Conor, you're seriously the best!
Conor : Says you.