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The Adonis

Cassidy

"Congratulationstothewomanwho said marriage is a death sentence," I say above the music in the club, and we raise our glasses. "To Shae and David."

We clink our glasses and drink.

Shae's face lights up. "We've been together for nine months now," she says, beaming at her engagement ring. "I never thought I'd make it one month!"

My chest tightens. I'm happy for Shae, but her happiness reminds me of the hole Brendan left in my heart. We broke up two months ago, and I only made it through the breakup by focusing on my last semester in school. That focus landed me an entry-level job in New York City.

"Thanks for celebrating with me tonight. I wanted to do something with my best friend before the formal engagement party," Shae says, putting her arm around my shoulder.

"Of course," I reply, smiling at her.

"And congratulations on the new job."

"Thanks. Finding the apartment was a nightmare." I cross my fingers. "I pray it doesn't fall through because I don't know what I'd do if it did."

Shae takes a final sip of her drink. "You've got this, girl."

A man walks by and gives Shae and me the eye. Shae raises her hand and points to her engagement ring. Then she points to me.

I wave my hands and shake my head. "No way, I'm not interested in him."

Shae pouts. "Why not? He's hot."

I wave the guy on, and he walks away with a frown. "I don't want to talk to random guys. I want to feel...I don't know...a spark or something."

Shae shakes her head. "This isn't a movie. That kind of stuff doesn't happen in real life."

I shrug. "Maybe it does."

"I'm going to find you, someone, tonight." She looks around.

"Absolutely not. Other than David, you have horrible taste in men."

She laughs. "I do have a rough track record,” she smirks.

I look at Shae's empty drink. "I'm getting us some more drinks." I point at her. "When I return, there will be no talk of finding a man for me tonight."

"I can’t promise you that."

"Shae."

"Fine," she smiles. "Whatever."

I slide off the plush velvet chair, pick up my Mojito and sip it as I walk to the bar. As I make my way to the bar, I feel the intensity of the atmosphere. People are dancing along with the music. The bass thumps in time with the beat and reverberates around the room like a heartbeat.

The lights are dim, but a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors bursts from the walls and ceiling, creating an explosion of energy. The bar is made of dark mahogany and lined with gleaming bottles and glasses.

I catch snippets of conversation as I pass by, people discussing politics, romantic woes, or plans for the weekend.

The air is heavy, a mix of perfumes and sweat, and I can almost taste the sweet scent of alcohol. I feel alive, surrounded by people who want to let go for the night and have a good time.

My phone buzzes. It's Brendan.

Source: www.allfreenovel.com