CARMEN
Tim led me inside. My fingers curled tightly in his, the only solid thing in a suddenly electric world.
And God—this was nothing like the weekly backyard BBQs they've been inviting me to.
Not even close.
This wasn’t warm, easy, or family-friendly with children running around everywhere.
No, this was strictly adults only. It felt alive—in a different kind of way.
The music hit first—bass thrumming up my legs, a second heartbeat. Lights flashed moody colours, casting shifting shadows that made the room feel bigger, fuller, wilder.
People were everywhere.
Club brothers, women, bodies moving confidently, unrestrained. Some danced at the center, while others leaned against the walls, laughing, drinking, and touching freely.
It should’ve overwhelmed me.
But instead of anxiety, e
