No Strings Attached

The Ball: Part Two

The ballroom was full of music and laughter as Olivia and Ethan danced under the soft glow of chandeliers. Olivia felt the warmth of the champagne coursing through her, making her giddy and uninhibited.

She clung to Ethan, her movements becoming wilder with each spin and sway. Ethan tried to keep their act together, but Olivia's laughter was drawing attention. Suddenly, she stumbled, grabbing onto Ethan for support. He gripped her tightly, his expression tightening with concern.

After each sip, she couldn't help but drink more and more and more. It made her feel very lightheaded and confused, causing ber to lean and clig onto Ethan.

"Olivia, you've had enough," he muttered quietly, trying to keep her steady. "But it's my first time drinking, Ethan. Stop being so demanding." Olivia slurred, as she burped and took another drink.

Olivia was too far gone. She giggled uncontrollably, her balance faltering. Before Ethan could react, she collapsed onto the floor, her eyes closing.

Ethan's heart raced as he scooped Olivia up. He glanced around nervously, relieved that no one seemed to be paying attention. Quickly, he carried her out of the ballroom and back to the mansion.

Inside, he laid her gently on the couch, checking her pulse and breathing. She was unconscious but stable. Ethan hesitated, debating whether to call for help, but he decided against it, worried about the consequences if anyone found out what had happened.

Olivia stirred, groaning softly as she opened her eyes. She looked up at Ethan, confusion clouding her face. "Ethan?" she murmured weakly.

"Yeah, it's me," Ethan replied gruffly, kneeling beside her. "You took a spill. Just rest."

Olivia struggled to sit up, her head pounding. "What happened?" she asked, trying to piece together the events.

"You passed out," Ethan said bluntly, his tone more abrupt than he intended. He softened slightly, seeing her vulnerable state.

"I'm sorry," Olivia whispered, tears welling up. "I didn't mean to ruin everything."

Ethan sighed, conflicted by his concern for her and the mess they were in. "Just... be more careful," he said with a mix of frustration and worry.

As Olivia drifted back to sleep, Ethan sat nearby, his mind racing with worry and uncertainty. This night had brought their precarious situation to light, and he knew they were both in deeper than they could handle.