Tightrope [Lapidot]

The Bar

Peridot's POV:

I only took a few steps along the pathway before I stood in front of a building that reeked of alcohol and cigarettes. The stench was so strong I couldn't help but squint my eyes and cover my nose with my shirt collar. Clearly, nothing bothered the rest of the circus performers, as they stormed into the bar, one after another, with no hesitation.

Lapis and I were the only ones to remain outside of the doors. Lapis blinked, sighing heavily before turning her head towards me. "Don't worry, today's been our first performance in a long time since we toured; they're just celebrating," Lapis stated, reassuring me in the simplest way she could.

I still couldn't understand why a bar would be the first place anyone would think of when it came to the term 'celebrating.' I shrugged it off and tried to keep an open mind, even though my facial expressions were saying the exact opposite.

Before I knew it, I felt my hand being grabbed by Lapis and being dragged inside. We walked in through the doors, and the smell of beer and tequila hit my nose immediately. At that moment, I just wanted to bail and leave as quickly as possible, but the other half of me wanted to stay and learn more about this strangely intriguing girl, Lapis.

While I was stuck inside my own thoughts, I hadn't realized Lapis had let go of my hand and made her way towards the large group of performers surrounding a large, round, wooden table. It looked like everyone had already made themselves at home, as each one was sitting with either a beer in one hand, or a couple of shots.

I slowly made my way next to the table Lapis had occupied with a few other performers, including the ridiculously large woman, Jasper. I uncomfortably shifted my posture and fidgeted with my thumbs as I positioned myself next to Lapis's side. Lapis noticed my presence but only smiled as a slight welcome.

"So, Peridot, was it?" Jasper asked, slamming her large beer onto the wooden table, making me jump slightly and fully drawing my attention toward her. "Er—yes, that's right," I said quickly after clearing my throat. "Alright, Peridot, you in for a few shots? Or is it too much for you, twerp?" I frowned, gritting my teeth. This 'Jasper' was really getting on my nerves.

"Jasper, she doesn't have to if she doesn't want to. She's here to enjoy the night with us, remember?" Lapis said with a stern tone, looming over the table where Jasper was situated on the other side. It was sweet to see someone stand up for me, but at that moment, my ego was stronger than my common sense. "I can do a few shots," I stated, feeling challenged.

Jasper only replied with a low, daring chuckle, calling the bartender's assistant over with her finger, signaling to bring the table six shots of martinis. I wasn't really thinking about what I was getting myself into; I'm not a drinker; I never was. Why was this the sudden reaction to being challenged? A second of doubt struck me, but then I looked over at Lapis, who seemed just as shocked at my reaction, but she kept silent.

Lapis slid in behind the table next to Jasper carefully, making herself comfortable with her arms folded on the table. Jasper slyly swung her arm around Lapis's neck, giving a deep chuckle and a hiccup. It seemed like the alcohol was already starting to kick in.

I took a seat at the front of the table by grabbing a spare chair, not wanting to make myself too comfortable just yet. Not even a few seconds later, six martinis were slid onto the table in front of me. It smelled strong... too strong for my liking. Before I was able to blink, two shots were grabbed by two other cackling performers next to Jasper, with Jasper taking one for herself.

"Bottoms up, twerp," Jasper smirked, signaling for me to down one of the shots in front of me. I was hesitant, but Lapis eyed the drink and then me continuously. I had to do it now; I had to prove I could do this. It's only one little shot, right?