Revenge - English Version

Chapter 2 - Party and White Wine

ZAYN POV

As soon as we step into the dimly lit party, the heavy beat of the music hits me like a wave, reverberating through my chest. Red and blue lights flicker across the crowded room, casting erratic shadows on the faces - both of strangers and familiar. The air is thick with the overpowering scent of sweat, cheap perfume, and spilled drinks, an intoxicating blend that reminds me of my years in Ireland. It's funny how, despite being such a common part of my life, it's still suffocating.

Someone hands me a red cup filled with something I don't even bother identifying. I down it in one go, feeling the burn travel down my throat. This is the kind of night that helps you forget—at least for a while.

I glance around and spot Liam already talking to Alexa. The plan is in motion, and everyone's on board. Well, everyone except Care, of course. She never wanted any part of this. She's too good for this, always trying to protect people, even someone like Alexa.

And then I see her. Alexa, barely clothed in what could hardly be called a dress, clinging to two guys like her life depended on it. Disgust rises in me, but I force a smile. She can't suspect anything.

Her little entourage hovers nearby, but Louis and Nate are nowhere to be seen. Shame. I was looking forward to showing them what these seven years have taught me.

- Zayn! - Niall's voice cuts through the noise.

- Yeah, Ni? - I grin. He hates when we call him that.

- Zayn, my dear friend. - He throws an arm around my neck, squeezing just enough to annoy me. - Don't forget who'd win in a fight between the two of us, so show me some respect.

I laugh, pushing him off. - Just say what you want, I need to focus.

- Who's the girl next to your target? - His eyes gleam with curiosity.

- Which one of the puppets?

- The brunette with blue eyes. - He says, clearly intrigued. I'm relieved it's not Daisy he's interested in. Between two evils, Vanessa's the better choice.

- Oh, that's Vanessa. Actually, the best of the three.

Niall grins. I try to recall anything bad about the girl. I don't want my best mate getting involved with someone awful, even if it's just a one-night thing. But nothing comes to mind. She never humiliated me, beat me up, or stole from me. Of course, she didn't help me either. But more often than not, she stayed out of it, refusing to join in.

- Mate, she's gorgeous. You should really give it a go. - I say honestly. - Have fun, but be careful. - No one in that group is worth it. I add, silently finishing in my mind, no matter how innocent she may seem.

I give him a pat on the shoulder and head toward Liam.

Time to start the game.

- Liam. - I greet, cutting into his conversation with Alexa.

- Hey. - He almost says my name, but I gesture for him to shut it. That's something for me to reveal. - Mate. - He finishes, playing along.

- Payne. Can't believe you've been hiding such a hottie from me. Aren't you going to introduce your friend?

The shrill voice behind me reminds me why I hate Alexa so much. Love really is blind.

- The friend can introduce himself. - I reply, forcing my voice to sound smooth rather than disgusted.

Her attempt at flirting is pathetic.

- So, what's the friend's name?

- Only if you tell me yours first.