Chapter 3 – Part 2: The First Night Out
The bouncer at the door barely glanced before stepping aside. The heavy glass door swung open, and instantly, the world shifted.
Inside, The Iron Lotus was alive. Strobe lights flashed across the dance floor, neon hues reflecting off polished tables, laughter echoing louder than the music. A deep bass pulsed like a heartbeat through the walls. The scent of perfume, alcohol, and sizzling food mixed into one intoxicating cocktail.
Arjun led the way, confidence written in every step. He didn't pause, didn't hesitate, as if he belonged here already. The others followed, some wide-eyed, some wary.
"Holy shit…" Sameer's jaw dropped. "This is heaven."
Raghav chuckled, shaking his head at his friend's open-mouthed awe. "Close your mouth before someone mistakes you for a fish."
Kabir scanned the room, his eyes landing on the bar where a line of drinks glowed under soft lighting. "First round's on me," he said, flashing his usual grin.
Vikram frowned. "We're here to enjoy, not to get drunk."
"Relax, Solanki," Arjun said, clapping him on the back. "One drink won't kill you. You need to loosen up."
Imran, silent as ever, just gestured toward an empty booth in the corner. "Let's get a place first."
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They slid into the booth, leather seats cool against their backs. The music was still loud, but here it was manageable, muffled by distance. Kabir waved down a waitress with practiced ease, ordering a mix of mocktails and light beers.
When the drinks arrived, Sameer raised his glass dramatically. "To us! Six strangers turned brothers… and to a night we'll never forget!"
Glasses clinked. Foam spilled. Even Vikram allowed a small smile.
Arjun leaned back, sipping casually. The cold beer ran down his throat smoothly, but more than the taste, it was the feeling—the sense of being at the start of something larger. He glanced around the table, at the faces of his companions, and knew this night wasn't just a random outing. It was the start of their bond.
"Alright," Kabir said, smirking, "truth or dare?"
"Oh no," Raghav groaned. "Not here."
"Yes here!" Sameer exclaimed. "Perfect place. I'll start. Kabir, truth—how many girls have you dated?"
Kabir leaned back with a cocky grin. "Enough to know names aren't important."
Sameer whooped, Vikram rolled his eyes, and Raghav shook his head. Arjun chuckled but stayed quiet, watching.
When it was Arjun's turn, Sameer pounced. "Dare. Rathore takes dare."
"Careful what you wish for," Arjun warned.
Sameer's grin turned mischievous. "Alright. I dare you to dance. Right now. On that floor."
All eyes turned to Arjun. He smirked, drained his glass in one gulp, and stood without hesitation. "Done."