Diamond Tears | Book 2 of The Champagne Chronicles

E I G H T - Whispers In The Dark

The lights of Jimmy'z pulsed in sync with the vibrant energy of the crowd. The bass from the DJ's booth thumped through the club, making the floor vibrate beneath their feet. Remy was basking in the glory of his victory at the race, a wide grin spread across his face as he made his way back to the group with drinks in hand.

Riley, Daphne, Fenna, Levi, Jérôme, Yves, and Chantal were huddled around a circular table near the dance floor, already feeling the buzz of excitement from the night. The club was filled with the sound of laughter, music, and the hum of celebration. Other drivers from the race were also scattered throughout the club, sharing in the night's festivities.

"Here we go!" Remy announced as he set the drinks down on the table. He held up his own glass—filled with a non-alcoholic cocktail. "To a hell of a race and to being surrounded by the best people I know."

"Hear, hear!" Yves cheered, clinking his glass against Remy's. The rest followed suit, raising their glasses and taking a sip.

Daphne took a sip of her drink just as the opening notes of Calvin Harris's "Summer" blasted through the speakers. She felt a tap on her shoulder and turned to see Riley standing next to her, a smile pulling at the corners of his mouth.

"This song always reminds me of you," he said, leaning in close enough so she could hear him over the music.

Daphne's eyebrows raised in surprise. "Really? Why?"

Riley shrugged, his grin widening. "Because we almost kissed to this song back at Jimmy'z... And I couldn't stop thinking about it for weeks."

Daphne's face softened, a blush creeping up her cheeks. "That night... yeah, I remember," she said, her voice quiet, a hint of nostalgia in her tone.

The music swelled, and they both fell silent for a moment, letting the memories flood back. Riley reached for her hand, intertwining his fingers with hers as they stood together, both lost in the memory of that nearly-missed kiss. It felt like a moment suspended in time—one where nothing else mattered but them.

Fenna and Levi stood a little apart from the group, laughing together near the bar. The dim lighting of the club cast a warm glow over them as they leaned in close, the noise of the party creating a cozy bubble around their conversation.

"So, what's going on at home?" Fenna asked casually, though her tone carried a hint of concern. Levi had been quieter than usual, and she knew something had been weighing on him.

Levi sighed, running a hand through his dark hair. "It's just... things have been weird again with my mom and my brother. They've been fighting more, and it's getting harder to stay out of it."

Fenna frowned, reaching for his hand. "I'm sorry, that sounds tough."

Levi gave a small, grateful smile. "It's fine. I've been thinking... maybe I should move out. You know, get my own place or... maybe..." He hesitated for a second before continuing. "Maybe I could move in with you?"

Fenna blinked, surprised at the sudden suggestion. "Really?"

Levi chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, I mean, it wouldn't be right away. I don't want to rush things or anything, but... it's been on my mind."

Fenna smiled softly, squeezing his hand. "It's not a bad idea. I mean, we're practically together all the time anyway. It could be fun."

Levi's expression brightened, though he quickly added, "We don't have to decide now, though. Tonight's about Remy. We can figure it out later."

Fenna nodded, leaning her head against his shoulder. "Yeah, you're right. But... whenever you're ready, Levi. I'd love to have you with me."

Levi grinned, the weight on his shoulders lifting just a bit. "I'll keep that in mind."