Her heart's dilemma (WLW)

Unexpected visitor

The music thumps with a steady bass line, and the lights flicker in sync with the beat, creating a lively atmosphere at the club. Asher, Sydney, Luca, and Alexis sit around a high table, enjoying their drinks and soaking in the vibrant energy of the place. Asher is already feeling a pleasant buzz, a combination of the alcohol and the exhilaration of being out with new friends in such a dynamic city.

After a few more drinks and some light dancing, Alexis suddenly winces and presses his hand to his temple, squinting his eyes in discomfort. Luca notices immediately and leans closer, concern etched on his face.

"You okay, babe?" Luca asks, his hand gently rubbing Alexis's back.

Alexis nods but doesn't look up. "Yeah, just... I think I'm getting a migraine. It's really strong."

Luca frowns and quickly finishes his drink. "Alright, let's get you home then." He turns to Sydney and Asher. "Sorry to cut the night short, but we're gonna head out. Syd, why don't you stay here with Asher for a while? It's her first time out with us, and she deserves to have a good time."

Sydney nods in understanding. "Of course. You two get home safe, okay?"

Luca smiles at Sydney and Asher waving his hand goodbye.

As Luca and Alexis leave, Sydney and Asher are left alone in the busy bar. Sydney slides her drink closer, and her eyes glint playfully. "Well, I guess it's just us now. What should we do?"

Asher, feeling a bit emboldened by the alcohol, leans in closer to Sydney. "I think we should just have fun," she says with a smile that's a little more flirtatious than usual. "Maybe dance a bit, or we could talk more. I'd love to know more about you, Syd."

Sydney grins and mirrors Asher's energy, leaning in as well. "Oh, really? And what do you want to know about me?"

"Everything," Asher replies, her voice soft but direct. "But for now, maybe just start with what you're thinking about."

Sydney chuckles, clearly enjoying the attention. "Hmm, I'm thinking... that I'm glad we're here together. And that I'm curious about you too, Ash."

Asher's heart skips a beat at Sydney's words, and she feels a warm flush spread across her cheeks. She's about to reply when she realizes she needs a moment to compose herself. "I'll be right back," she says, standing up. "Just need to step outside for a quick smoke."

Sydney nods, watching Asher head toward the exit. She stays at the table, taking a sip of her drink and enjoying the buzz of the crowd around her.

Asher steps outside into the cool night air and lights a cigarette, exhaling slowly as she tries to steady her racing heart. The brief alone time helps her gather her thoughts, and she decides to head back inside. Just as she flicks her cigarette away and turns to go back, she sees a man approaching Sydney's table.

The man, tall and with a swagger that suggests he's had a bit too much to drink, leans in toward Sydney. "Hey there," he says with a slurred grin. "What's a pretty girl like you doing here all alone?"

Sydney looks up, instantly uncomfortable. She forces a polite smile. "I'm not alone. I'm actually here with someone."

The man looks around, clearly skeptical. "Oh yeah? I don't see your boyfriend anywhere."

Sydney's eyes dart toward the door, hoping to see Asher returning. Asher steps back into the bar just in time to catch Sydney's nervous glance. Without missing a beat, Sydney points toward Asher. "I'm with her," she says firmly.

The man follows her gaze to Asher and laughs derisively. "Her? Come on, you've gotta be kidding me. That little fag?"

Asher freezes in place, the word hitting her like a punch to the gut. She sees Sydney's expression shift from discomfort to something more resolute as she stands up trying to appear feisty though shorter than both Asher and the man.