Time will Tell

26

Deena's P.O.V.

"So, what's got you looking so serious tonight?" Jessica asked, handing me the drink.

I laughed lightly. "Just a lot on my mind, I guess."

She nodded, understanding. "Well, let's see if we can change that. Want to go back to the dance floor?"

I hesitated for a moment, then nodded.

 Why not?

Jessica led me back to the dance floor, and we moved to the beat of the music.

 Her energy was infectious, and I found myself relaxing a bit. 

For a little while, I managed to push thoughts of Tine to the back of my mind and just enjoy the moment.

In between dancing, I managed to introduce Jessica to Thea and her date.

As the night wore on, I realized I hadn't thought about Tine or our complicated situation for a good while. 

Jessica was fun and easy to talk to, and it felt good to connect with someone new.

Even though with many shots I had, my mind was still alert and alive.

I was glad I came here and didn't think when Thea invited me.

"You should smile and laugh often." Jessica whispered in my ear. Just now I noticed how close we were dancing with each other.

Our faces are inches apart, her smile so alluring that it made my heart race a little. 

I smiled at her again, feeling a warmth spread through me that had nothing to do with the alcohol.

"Thanks." I replied, my voice barely audible over the music. "I guess I needed this more than I realized."

Jessica's eyes sparkled. "Sometimes, you just have to let go and live in the moment."

I nodded, appreciating her words. As we continued to dance, I let myself be more present, enjoying the rhythm of the music and the connection we were forming.

After a few more songs, we decided to take another break and headed back to the bar. 

Thea and her date were there too, laughing and clearly having a great time.

"You two look like you're having fun." Thea teased as we approached.

"We are." Jessica said and winked at me.

I couldn't help but laugh. 

The tension I'd been carrying all day seemed to melt away. We all chatted for a bit, sharing stories and jokes. 

It felt good to laugh and be surrounded by friends, old and new.

*****

I woke up with my alarm going off.

My face was still buried in my pillow as I looked for my phone on my side table.

With my eyes half closed, I turned the alarm off.

"Good morning!" 

Shocked, I immediately sat up, my heart pounding. 

Jessica was lying next to me, her hair tousled and a have a playful smile on her face. 

Memories from last night started to trickle in, but everything was hazy.

"G- Good morning." I replied, my voice shaky. "What happened last night?"

Jessica chuckled softly. "You don't remember, do you?" Her eyes went from my face to my chest.

Then I noticed, I was naked.