Strings of Fate

Strings

At the table with her was Carlos, her latest fling. Carlos was handsome, with tanned skin, green eyes, and a sharp chin. His black hair was laid back, giving him a suave look. He looked like a nice guy, and so far, things had been casual and fun between them. I glanced at Jazmin's fingers—no string connected yet. Jazmin was a true believer and always thought that if she kept dating, she would eventually find the one that connected. I admired that about her because, honestly, dating is not for the weak.

Jason, the golden retriever of our friendship circle, was also there. He had brown curly hair, brown eyes, with a big nose and full lips and a muscular build. He was the kind of guy who always had a smile on his face and a joke at the ready.

"Audrey, you made it!" Jason exclaimed, standing up to give me a bear hug. "We thought you were going to bail on us again."

I laughed, returning his hug. "Not this time. Jazmin wouldn't let me live it down."

"Better believe it," Jazmin said, smirking. "We're getting you drunk tonight."

We settled into our seats, and the waiter came by to take our orders. Jazmin, ever the social butterfly, had already charmed Carlos into taking some shots before the food came. We clinked our glasses together and downed the drinks, the alcohol burning a warm path down my throat.

"So, Audrey," Carlos said, leaning forward with a mischievous grin. "Any hot guys in your life lately?"

I rolled my eyes, laughing. "You know I'm with Ivan. No hot guys needed."

Jason feigned a dramatic sigh. "Such a shame. We need more drama in our lives."

"Speak for yourself," I replied, chuckling.

"Yeah, Carlos, leave Audrey alone," Jazmin teased, nudging him with her elbow. "She's got her hands full with Mr. Perfect."

"Oh please, Ivan's a saint," Carlos joked. "But saints can be boring."

Jason leaned back in his chair, giving me a knowing look. "But Ivan isn't your string, Audrey."

My smile faltered for a moment before I forced it back. "Strings don't matter."

The night wore on with drinks, laughter, and teasing. Jazmin and Jason were in their element, entertaining us with stories and jokes. I felt a sense of ease wash over me, the earlier tension slipping away.

After a while, I excused myself to go to the bathroom. The hallway leading to the restrooms was dimly lit, a stark contrast to the lively, colorful lights of the club. I washed my hands and took a moment to look at my reflection in the mirror. My red lipstick was still perfect, and my eyes sparkled with a mix of alcohol and the happiness of being with friends.

As I stepped out of the bathroom, I noticed a man walking towards the hallway. He was tall with short blonde hair and hazel colored eyes. His features were chiseled, and he wore a tailored shirt that hugged his frame perfectly. He was very handsome, and something about him seemed familiar.

My heart skipped a beat as I looked down at my left pinkie. The red string, which usually floated in the distance, was now connected—leading straight to the stranger. I immediately hid my hand behind my back, panic rising in my chest. He noticed, his gaze locking onto mine, and for a moment, the world seemed to stand still.

He kept staring at me from afar, his expression unreadable. Then he turned and went back to the masses.

That was my cue to go.

"Audrey, you okay?" Jazmin asked, noticing my flustered state as I slid back into my seat.

"Yeah, just... it's the alcohol," I replied, forcing a smile. Even if I couldn't see him I could feel the stranger's eyes on me.

"Maybe we should get another round," Jason suggested, oblivious to the tension in my voice.

I nodded, trying to shake off the feeling of being watched. "Yeah, another round sounds good."

As the waiter brought more drinks, I tried to focus on the conversation at the table, but my mind kept drifting back to the stranger. Who was he? Why did our strings have to connect now? I felt like my world was unraveling.

"Audrey," Carlos said, waving a hand in front of my face. "You're spacing out on us."

"Sorry," I muttered. "Just a lot on my mind."

"Is it Ivan?" Jazmin asked, concern in her eyes. "Did you guys have a fight?"

"No, it's not that," I say quickly. "I just... I need some air."

I stood up and made my way to the balcony, the cool night air a welcome relief from the stifling atmosphere inside. I leaned against the railing, taking deep breaths to calm my racing heart. As the night continued, I couldn't help but glance back toward the other tables.