From Frost to Flame

Part 55- See You Tonight

Pete stepped out of the meeting hall with his notes hugged tight against his chest, but he couldn't remember a single word written on the page. His head was stuck on one thing only—Vegas's voice.

"See you tonight."

The words were simple, but the way he said them... low, deliberate, carrying something Pete wasn't sure he was ready to understand.

Pete blinked rapidly as he walked down the corridor, his steps uneven. Tonight? What tonight? Did they make plans? No—he would remember that. Unless... oh god, did he agree to something and forget?

By the time he reached his desk, panic had replaced all rational thought. His phone was out before he even sat down. His fingers hovered before moving fast. There was only one person reckless enough to untangle this—Porsche.

He typed quickly:
Pete: "Emergency. Vegas told me 'See you tonight.' WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?"

The typing dots appeared immediately. Then vanished. Then appeared again. Pete could almost see Porsche smirking through the screen.

Porsche: Depends. Did he say it like a boss? Or like a man?

Pete nearly choked on air. His eyes darted around the room as if anyone could hear the blood rushing in his ears.

Pete: Porsche, this isn't funny. I need to know if I'm supposed to show up somewhere or if he's—

The typing dots blinked back.

Porsche: You are thinking too much 😂 It means he'll see you tonight?

Pete groaned aloud, slumping into his chair.

Pete: NO. You don't understand. Porsche, I'm being serious.

Porsche: So am I. He's literally just using words.

Another pause.

Porsche: Relax, Pete. If Vegas wants to see you tonight, you'll know. He's not the type to say things without meaning them.

Porsche: Oh my god, Pete. Stop spiraling. You sound like Chay when he loses Wi-Fi.

Pete: You're useless.

Porsche: Thanks 👍. Also, stop overthinking.

Pete dropped his forehead to his desk with a quiet thunk.

"Hey, Pete," Sky's voice broke through his fog. He caught up easily, swinging his lanyard with that careless energy of his. "So... what are you wearing for the party tonight?"

Pete blinked, stopping mid-step. "Party?"

Sky tilted his head. "You didn't hear?"

"Hear what?" Pete asked, the confusion deepening.

Sky chuckled, clearly amused at Pete's cluelessness. "There's a party tonight. You know, since our project finally got approved? Everyone's talking about it."

Pete opened his mouth, but before he could form another question, the sound of shoes clicking against the tile pulled the room's attention.

Mr. Day stepped into their department, his presence enough to quiet the murmurs. With a smile, he raised his voice just enough for everyone to hear.

"As most of you know, our hard work has finally paid off. The project has been officially approved," he announced, his words met with a ripple of relieved cheers and claps. "To celebrate, there's a party this evening at seven sharp. Everyone's invited. Make sure you come."