The bar pulsed with life, the music swelling into a sultry beat that seemed to pull Siena deeper into the night. She swayed, her body moving swiftly to the rhythm, letting the melody speak through her hips and arms. The alcohol buzzed in her veins, loosening every knot of tension she'd carried for months. Beside her, the stranger with those mesmerizing blue eyes matched her steps, his hands resting gently on her waist. The room was dark, the flickering lights casting a soft glow over them, making it feel like they were the only two people in the world. His touch was warm, steady, and it sent a shiver up her spine that had nothing to do with the chilly air.
Karina was lost in her own world, giggling with the handsome guy she'd been eyeing earlier, their heads bent close over drinks at the counter. Lila, Tara, and Jess were busy snapping selfies and recording TikToks, their laughter blending with the music as they posed for the gram. But Siena didn't care about any of that. For once, she let her morals slip, her usual uptightness melting away as she pressed herself closer to this stranger. The alcohol made her hyper, her movements bold and carefree, and she reveled in the freedom of it all.
Then the music shifted—a cool, sweet melody filled the air. Perfect by Ed Sheeran began to play, its tender lyrics wrapping around them like a warm embrace. It was the perfect moment, and Siena felt it deep in her chest. She locked hands with him, her fingers intertwining with his, and leaned in closer. Their eyes met, and for the first time, she really saw him. His face was breathtaking—sharp cheekbones, a strong jaw softened by a gentle smile, and those blue eyes that seemed to hold a thousand secrets. There was something familiar in his gaze, a flicker of recognition that made her heart skip. As if drawn by an invisible thread, they both leaned in, their lips connecting in a kiss that felt like magic.
The world faded away. His lips were soft yet firm, tasting faintly of whiskey and something uniquely him. Siena grabbed his shirt, pulling him closer, her heart racing with a mix of excitement and emotion. It was powerful, electric, and she couldn't get enough. He responded eagerly, one hand sliding to her waist, the other caressing her cheek with a tenderness that made her knees weak. The kiss deepened, and she lost herself in it, the music amplifying every sensation.
Around them, people watched, but it didn't matter. The bar was a haze of shadows and swaying bodies, and they weren't the only ones stealing kisses in the dark. Siena didn't care about judgment—she was determined to make this night unforgettable. No academic stress, no family baggage, just this moment. She smiled against his lips, feeling alive in a way she hadn't in years.
Just when she thought the night couldn't get better, he pulled back slightly, his breath warm against her ear. "I booked a suite not far from here," he whispered, his voice low and inviting. "We could head over there if that's okay with you."
Her heart leapt, and without a second thought, she nodded. The thrill of it all coursed through her. She fumbled for her phone, texting Karina: "Hey, I'm heading out with my one-night stand. Don't worry, I'm fine. Catch you later!" She hit send and glanced up to see him watching her, a curious smile on his lips.
"Informing your friends of your whereabouts?" he asked, his tone teasing.
"Yeah," she replied, tucking her phone away. "Safety first, right?"
He chuckled, a sound that sent a flutter through her, and offered his hand. They slipped out of the bar, the cool night air hitting her skin as they approached his car. Even in her hazy state, Siena noticed it wasn't just any car—a sleek, expensive model that gleamed under the streetlights. Her mind buzzed, but the alcohol dulled her curiosity, and she let it slide as she slid into the passenger seat.
The drive was short, just a few minutes, and soon they were stepping into the suite. Siena's breath caught as she took it in—plush carpets, a massive bed with silk sheets, and a view of the city lights through a floor-to-ceiling window. "Wow, this place is amazing," she gasped, turning to him with wide eyes.
He smiled, stepping closer. "Thank you. Make yourself comfor—"
Before he could finish, Siena was already shedding her hoodie, her movements bold and unhesitating. His eyes widened, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Wow, so you're not much of a talker, huh?"
She laughed, a little breathless, and closed the distance between them. Their lips crashed together again, hungry and urgent. The taste of him was intoxicating, and she reached for his belt, her fingers fumbling with the buckle. He caught her hands gently, pulling back to look at her. "Wait," he said softly. "Are you sure this is what you want?"
She groaned, rolling her eyes playfully. "Yes, yes," she hushed him, her voice a mix of impatience and desire. "I proposed this, didn't I? Now quit being a gentleman and give me what I want."
His smirk softened into a smile, and though he was wild and tipsy himself, he nodded, respecting her words. They moved together, a dance of passion and consent, and soon they were lost in each other. The night unfolded with a tenderness she'd never known. With Alex, it had always been about his pleasure, his pace, leaving her feeling used. But this stranger—this man with blue eyes and a caring touch—was different. He checked in with her, his hands gentle yet firm, his kisses laced with a warmth that made her feel seen. Every caress, every whispered word, built a connection that felt almost too good to be true. For Siena, it was the most beautiful night she'd ever felt alive, loved in a way that filled the empty spaces she hadn't realized were there. She smiled through it all, drifting into a blissful sleep wrapped in his arms.
Morning came with a dull ache in her head, the aftermath of too much alcohol. She stretched, reaching for him, but the other side of the bed was cold, empty. Blinking against the light, she sat up, her robe slipping off one shoulder. The suite was silent, the air still, as if he'd vanished the moment she'd fallen asleep. It was 10 a.m. on Saturday—where could he have rushed off to?
Confused, she scanned the room. Her clothes were scattered, a reminder of the night before, but there was no sign of him. Then her eyes landed on the bedside table—a neat bundle of cash sat there, crisp bills staring back at her. Her stomach dropped. Disgust twisted her features as she muttered, "Is that what he took me for? A whore?"