Repetition || Harry Styles

Chapter 2: red room

TW: This chapter contains mentions of drug use and addiction.

Chapter 2

This night was going to be exhausting. I stretched my arms and stifled a yawn, my body craving the comfort of my bed. But I pushed the thought aside, there were drinks to prepare and guests to serve. As I mixed another cocktail, I made sure to keep my smile bright, even though fatigue was starting to creep in.

I handed the finished drinks to a group of elegantly dressed guests, their laughter ringing out over the music. They exuded an effortless sophistication, the kind that felt so out of reach for someone like me. Even in the dim lighting of the bar, their elegance shone through, reminding me of the stark contrast between their world and mine.

"Hi. Can I get another one of your special drink? What is it called again? Midnight Sparkler? Is it the same one on the first floor?" A sudden blonde boy with a bright smile asked me. He looked familiar, but I couldn't quite place him.

"Of course, it's called the 'Midnight Sparkler', and yes it's the same one you had on the first floor," I replied, trying to keep my composure despite my curiosity. "Did you liked it?" I said, moving quickly to gather the ingredients.

He nodded enthusiastically, his bright smile never wavering. "It's definitely my favorite drink of the night. Refreshing and not bitter."

I felt a surge of pride as I began to mix the cocktail. "I'm glad you liked it. It's a crowd favorite. Just a little twist on classic flavors to make it special," I said with a modest shrug, sliding the drink toward him. "Here you go."

He took a sip, his eyes lit up even more. "Wow! It's even better than the other one. I might just have to keep coming back for more."

"Feel free! I'm here all night," I said genuinely, a welcoming smile on my face. "You looked really familiar."

"Oh? I'm Niall. Maybe you've seen me on TV or something. I'm part of the band," He said, flashing that bright smile.

Realization hit me. Oh yes, the blonde one. Now that he was up close, I could see him properly despite the dim light. Was I fool for not recognizing.

"Sorry. I know you, I just didn't recognize you!" I blurted, feeling a little embarrassed. The dim lighting and the rush of work hadn't exactly helped.

Niall laughed, clearly amused. "Hey, don't worry about it. I don't exactly go around with a spotlight." He laughed. "I'm just here for your 'Midnight Sparkler,' Best drink I've had in ages,"

"Niall," A girl in a glamorous, long black dress called, wrapping her arm around him. "Why are you taking so long?" She glanced at me, looking me up and down as if sizing me up, her expression just shy of a glare.

I held my ground, giving her a polite but firm look back.

"Oh, I was just grabbing a drink," Niall said, seemingly oblivious to her irritation as he looked back at me.

"We've got a party to get to," The girl said, pulling his arm.

"Thanks for this. I'll be coming back later." He added, flashing a sweet smile before letting her pull him toward a crowd.

I secretly rolled my eyes. It wasn't my style to interfere. "Please, lady. I'm just doing my job." With a deep breath, I got back to work, pouring drinks and engaging with guests, letting the energy of the night take over.

After an hour of nonstop work, Rise finally got me a break. The two of us headed to the staff room, each grabbing something quick to eat. I felt like I'd been running on fumes, and I could practically feel the weight of the night pressing down on my shoulders.