3. Chapter 3
Aria
The building is already filled with people, and loud music plays as I walk into the parking lot at seven.
Finding a parking spot would have been nearly impossible at this time, so I’m glad my shop is just a couple of blocks down from the party venue.
Empty beer bottles are already scattered across the ground, and I think this is the earliest the party has started since my first year.
As I walk through the double doors, the entire room is bathed in a glowing red light, with fog lingering in the air.
I love that this party always goes all out on decorations, lights, music, and, most importantly, the bar.
My plan tonight is to drink as much as possible and have so much fun I don’t even think about Jacob and Amelia.
I walk over to the bar lined with a few people on barstools, and the cute waiter walks up to me. “Hey beautiful, what can I get for you?” He bites his lip and his eyes scan my body. I guess this outfit turned out to be the perfect choice .
“I’ll just get a crown royal and sprite to start with.” I sit down on the only empty stool and lean over the bar. “Make that with an extra shot of crown.” If I’m drinking alone, I might as well drink enough for a couple, right?
“Coming right up, sweetheart.” I can feel my cheeks heat at the way he says that. His thick Jersey accent sends chills down my spine. I’ve heard accents like his on TV, but never in real life.
I look around the room, not seeing anyone I know yet. I had hoped to find a group of people I could hang out with that I’d met at the store or around town. After Jacob and I got serious, most of my friends continued their single lives and forgot about me. All except Amelia.
“Here you go, beautiful. Enjoy.” He slides the drink across the bar and winks at me. I can feel a blush staining my cheeks.
“Thank you. Here’s my card to put on my tab.”
He brushes me off. “Don’t worry, drinks are on me tonight.”
Someone down the bar waves, and he takes off towards them.
I’ve only been single for a few hours, and I’m officially enjoying this life.
It’s been years since I’ve gotten free drinks.
I look around the party and find an array of costumes all around me.
People seem to be enjoying themselves tonight .
“Why is a hot girl like you sitting here all alone? Where is your date?” The bartender asks as he returns to me.
I laugh. “Uh, well, I found my boyfriend in bed with my best friend in my house before coming here. So, I’m all alone tonight.”
His eyes widen almost hysterically. “Oh man, I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to hit a sore spot so soon.”
I shake my head. “I prefer it this way, honestly. Would you be talking to me if he was sitting next to me?”
“That’s a good point. I don’t think I would. So maybe it worked out in both of our favors.”
I finish my first drink, and just as I set the glass back down, he slides another one to me. “Are you trying to get me drunk already?” I raise my eyebrows at him.
“After the story you just told me, I think you need all the alcohol behind this bar. Do you think he will show up here tonight?” He asks, changing the subject.
I didn’t even think about that. I’m pretty sure that is the only thing that could ruin this party for me is seeing his stupid face. “Uh, I hope not. I honestly expect him to be fucking her all night.”
“With as hot as you are, I’m shocked anyone would ruin a relationship with you.”
I blush, “Well, men are trash and apparently best friends can be trash too. ”
“Only if you have the wrong friends.”
I raise my glass towards him. “I’ll drink to that.”
I down the rest of my second drink and slide it back towards him. “The dance floor is looking hot and they are playing great music. I think I'll go check it out.”
He nods his head, clearing my glass off the bar. “Whenever you’re ready for drink number three, you know where to find me.”
I smile and head towards the middle of the dance floor. I can feel the music buzzing through my veins and my body is ready to let go and have fun.