Between two Worlds

~ Chapter Three ~

"Whatever that was, I'm shook," Esme exclaimed, visibly taken aback.

"Yeah... yeah," I murmured, my thoughts still lingering on the bizarre event.

I scanned the room, hoping to catch a glimpse of him, but he was nowhere to be found. Suddenly, Esme grabbed my hand and started to dance. "This is our first college party!"

I laughed, joining her playful moves. "Hell yeah!"

We danced to the pulsating music, each beat lifting me to another world. I closed my eyes, lost in the rhythm, entranced by the melody.

"I'm going to grab us some drinks," Esme announced.

Her voice pulled me back to reality. "D-drinks?" I stammered.

"Uh, yeah, drinks," she replied, confused.

I glanced down, feeling a bit out of place. "I've never had a drink before."

Esme looked surprised but understanding. "If you don't want to, you don't have to."

I shook my head. "No, I want to try."

"Are you sure?" she asked, a hint of concern in her voice.

I nodded. "I'll drink in moderation. I don't know my limit."

Esme grinned. "For sure. And if I have to carry your drunk ass on my back, I will!"

I laughed. Esme smiled back. "I'll be back then."

"Okay."

As Esme disappeared into the crowd, I continued scanning the room. I suddenly spotted Avery, but she was engrossed in conversation with a tall, slender guy. They seemed deep in discussion.

I decided not to interrupt them. Just then, my phone buzzed. It was my mom calling. I declined and texted her, "Hey, I'm a bit busy. Can I call you tomorrow?"

She replied instantly, "Of course. Love you. Goodnight. 🌙"

Esme returned with Avery by her side, looking excited. "Look who I found!"

I turned, surprised to see Avery. "Hey," I greeted enthusiastically.

"Hi, Delphine," Avery replied, her blue eyes meeting mine with an intensity that was both captivating and slightly awkward.

"I'm good. How are you enjoying the party so far?" Avery asked sweetly.

"Oh, it's amazing. Thanks for inviting us."

"Of course! So, what year are you guys?"

"I'm a junior," Esme replied.

"Yeah, me too. She's actually my roommate," I chuckled, exchanging a knowing glance with Esme.

"What a coincidence! I'm a junior too," Avery said cheerfully.

Esme and I exchanged looks. "Really? What's your dorm number?"

Avery smiled nervously. "Well, I don't live on campus, not exactly. I live on and off."

"Really?" Esme continued, intrigued.

Of course, I thought. Avery's rich and an influencer.

"Yes," Avery laughed. "Well, I have to step away for a moment."

Esme and I smiled as Avery waved goodbye and disappeared back into the crowd.

An hour later, Esme was four shots in, mingling effortlessly with the other students. I watched her dance freely among the partygoers.

I was on my second shot, feeling a pleasant buzz that made me feel loose and carefree. I closed my eyes and let the music guide me as I danced into the night.