Fragments of Us

Chapter Seven: Resonance

The city’s pulse seemed to quicken as night fell, and the buzz of the crowd gathered at the concert venue was thick with excitement. Milo could feel the beat of the music in his chest even before he entered. Jason was beside him, exuding an energy that was infectious, his enthusiasm drawing a smile from Milo as they moved through the throng.

They managed to find a spot near the bar, just as the opening band wrapped up. The venue was an eclectic mix of locals, college students, and music lovers. Jason ordered them both drinks, and as they settled in, the main act began to set up on stage.

   “Good call on coming tonight,” Milo said, nodding to the stage. “I didn’t realize how much I missed this.”

Jason grinned. “I knew you’d feel that way. There’s something about live music, right? It takes you out of your head for a while.” He raised his drink in a toast, and Milo clinked his glass in agreement. “Plus, I knew you’d like these guys. They’re one of the best local bands around.”

The music started up again, a mix of soulful lyrics and vibrant instrumentals, and Milo found himself lost in the sounds. It was a good distraction, something he hadn’t realized he needed.

Just as he was starting to feel completely relaxed, Jason tapped his shoulder, pointing discreetly across the crowd. Milo turned, and there, at the other end of the bar, was Atlas. He looked casual, chatting with a couple of friends, but there was a quiet confidence in his demeanor. He looked over, caught sight of Jason and Milo, and raised a hand in greeting.

Jason glanced at Milo, gauging his reaction. “You alright?”

Milo gave a small nod, eyes still on Atlas. “Yeah. I’m fine.” He forced a smile. “Didn’t expect to run into him here, though.”

   “Small world, I guess,” Jason replied, giving him a reassuring pat on the back. “If it helps, I’m here. Just say the word.”

   “Thanks,” Milo said, feeling a little better. He hadn’t fully expected to see Atlas, but there was a strange comfort in knowing Jason understood the situation. Jason had been there for parts of the old story between him and Atlas, but he’d also seen Milo move on, seen him build a new life, one that didn’t revolve around Atlas.

The set finished, and the band left the stage to applause and cheers. Jason nudged Milo. “Refill?”

   “Yeah, sounds good.”

Jason headed to the bar, giving Milo a moment alone. As he scanned the room, he noticed Atlas making his way over, his steps purposeful. Milo steeled himself, the familiar mixture of feelings rising up. He was over the past, but the remnants—the memories—still lingered.

Atlas stopped a few feet away, giving Milo a slight nod. “Hey,” he said, his tone casual, almost tentative.

   “Hey,” Milo replied, equally casual.

Atlas glanced over his shoulder at the bar. “It’s good to see you here. I didn’t peg you for the concert type anymore.”

Milo shrugged. “Jason dragged me out. Figured it’d be good to get out for a bit.”

Atlas nodded, and for a moment, they just stood there, the sounds of the bar filling the space between them. “I’m glad,” Atlas finally said, his voice soft. “It’s good to see you doing things you enjoy.”

Jason returned just then, a fresh round of drinks in hand. “Oh, hey, Atlas,” he greeted, his tone warm but reserved.

   “Hey, Jason,” Atlas replied, offering a friendly smile. “Didn’t know you’d be here tonight.”