Shades of Desire

Ethan

I fell asleep, and suddenly I was back at that dorm party, the atmosphere buzzing with laughter and excitement. It was the ice-breaking night of college, and everyone was trying to get to know each other. The fairy lights flickered, and the music pulsed in the background.

I spotted Ivy across the room, her dark hair catching the light. I couldn't help but watch her. Just then, she glanced my way, but as soon as our eyes met, she quickly looked away, a blush creeping up her cheeks. My heart raced. Did she feel it too?

Before I could think too much about it, a girl with pink hair shouted, "Hey, let's play Truth or Dare!" Everyone cheered, and the excitement grew.

The bottle spun, landing between me and the pink-haired girl. She grinned at me, leaning forward. "Ethan, truth or dare?"

"Dare," I replied, trying to sound confident, but I felt a rush of adrenaline.

She smirked, her eyes sparkling. "I dare you to kiss anyone from here."

I glanced around the room, my heart pounding in my chest. Then my gaze landed on Ivy again. Without thinking, I leaned over and kissed her, feeling the warmth of her lips against mine. It was just a game, right? But the moment felt electric, like everything around us disappeared.

Ivy responded, her lips soft against mine, and I lost myself in the kiss. It was supposed to be just a dare, but it felt like so much more. I could sense the thrill in the air, and when we pulled back, the room erupted in cheers and laughter. Ivy's cheeks were flushed, and I could see a spark in her eyes.

But as the laughter faded into the background, I felt a nagging sensation in my chest. That kiss was everything—an impulsive moment that lingered long after it was over.

I jolted awake, heart racing. The memory replayed in my mind, and I couldn't shake the feeling that it meant something. I wanted to talk to Ivy, figure out where we stood after that night.

Grabbing my phone, I hesitated for a moment before typing a message to her.
Should I really do this? After everything that's happened? I type out a message: Hey, can we meet? I need to talk. The second I hit send, doubt creeps in. What if she's moved on? What if Jace is all she thinks about now?

The wait for her reply feels like forever. I tap my foot nervously, biting my lip. Finally, my phone buzzes, and my heart skips. It's Ivy: Sure, when?

I can hardly believe it. She's actually willing to meet. I quickly type back: How about tomorrow at 3? Café on Main?

When her reply comes, my chest tightens: Sounds good. See you then!

I can't shake this mix of excitement and dread. It's been too long since we've seen each other. I don't know if this will bring closure or just complicate things even more, but I need to see her. Even if it's just for a moment.