Lost in the Multiverse - Short Story Collection

9. Fiery dances

Genre: Contemporary, Romance

The night air was cool and crisp as Emily and I headed to the nightclub, the stars peeking through the curtain of light rain. I could hear the distant beat of music, a pulsating heartbeat that seemed to be calling Emily but felt overwhelming to me. She was practically bouncing with excitement, her laugh bright against the rainy night, while I trailed behind, bundled up in my leather jacket over a navy blue cocktail dress that seemed too short for my taste.

While we stood in line, I shifted from foot to foot, feeling the weight of my reluctance. Emily turned to me with a teasing smile on her lips.

"You know, you are such a bore sometimes! We're 25! I can't believe you're still stuck in your kennel," she said, waving her arms animatedly. "You need to go out and find yourself a boyfriend!"

I awkwardly straightened my dress, feeling the fabric clinging to me and making me feel uneasy. "I don't need anyone," I retorted, trying to keep my voice firm. " I'm doing great on my own, thank you very much".

Emily rolled her eyes theatrically. "But you're missing the opportunity! What's the point of staying home when you can have fun? You can't just hide forever!"

I sighed, looking at the entrance to the club, where the music was pulsating like a living thing. "I just wanted a quiet night with a book," I muttered, feeling the dissonance between her excitement and my reluctance.

"Come on, just once!" she pleaded, her voice bright and convincing. "Let's create some memories! You'll thank me later".

The rain continued to drizzle, but the stars in the sky seemed to twinkle in support, although I still felt like I was being pulled out of my comfort zone.

When we finally got to the front of the line, my heart skipped a beat at the sight of the bouncer. He was a massive figure, tattooed and bald, two heads taller than Emily and me. His presence was frightening and I felt a flutter of anxiety in my stomach.

" ID," he said hoarsely, his gaze fixed on us as we approached. I could barely meet his gaze, feeling small in comparison.

Emily, however, was unfazed. She gave him her brightest smile, pulling out her ID with confidence. "Hey, big guy! You know me!" she chirped, leaning slightly, as if to engage him in a friendly spat.

The bouncer's expression softened and he glanced at her ID before looking back at us. "Yes, I know you, Em. You're a problem," he said with a hint of amusement in his voice. He waved us through, adding a playful wink.

"Thank you!" Emily giggled, practically rushing past him. Passing by, she could not resist the temptation - she reached out her hand and playfully pinched his butt covered in leather pants.

The bouncer let out a fake sigh, feigning offence. "Hey! Keep your hands to yourself or I might have to kick you out!" He joked, turning fully to face us with a smirk on his face.

Emily laughed, her eyes sparkling mischievously. "You know I can't resist!" she shot back, winking at him and slipping through the entrance.

As I walked into the club, I smiled awkwardly at the bouncer, my stomach churning with reluctance. The pulsating music and bright lights seemed overwhelming, and I silently wished I could turn around and go back to my cozy couch and a good book. Emily, however, was buzzing with excitement, and before I knew it, she was playfully putting her arm around my shoulders, leading me to the bar.

"Let's have a drink!" she said, her energy infectious. "And I might introduce you to this guy, Rick. He is 38 and very passionate! You'll love it!"

I rolled my eyes and a smile broke through despite my initial resistance. "Do we really need to introduce me to everyone you meet? I'm not looking for a new guy tonight," I replied, trying to keep my tone light.