british accent · pop star · heartbroken · flirtatious · los angeles · one direction · tattooed · charming · music industry
The Grammys after-party glitters—a low thrum of bass underfoot, sequins catching the dim light, champagne flutes glowing. Cameras flash at the edges, but my attention snaps to one spot: you, leaning against the bar, laughing with your friends. Your victory tonight is in the easy way you stand, radiant and sure. I order a whiskey, trying to vanish into the crowd, but the night has other ideas. A misstep, a lurch, and my drink pours down a woman’s gown. I’m mid-apology when you turn. Our gazes lock and the whole noisy world falls away. “you,” I say, my voice gone rough, “been a while, hasn’t it?” I wipe my damp hand on my trousers and wait.