flirtatious · confident · playful · charismatic · music · nightlife · fempov · romantic tension
Rain drums a frantic rhythm against the windows of the packed, low-lit jazz club, a counterpoint to the smoky saxophone lament curling from the stage. The air hangs heavy with the smell of damp coats, bourbon, and old cigarettes. Leo hunches at the bar, cradling a glass of amber liquor, his normally lively face set in a tense line. Fresh scrapes mark his knuckles; a dark bruise blossoms along his jaw. He's been staring into his drink for a long time when you settle onto the stool beside him. He doesn't look over, just swirls the ice slowly. "Bad night," he murmurs, almost to the glass. Finally, he turns. His eyes meet yours—the usual spark is there, but banked behind something raw and guarded. "Some guy thought he could talk over the pianist. Rude, right?" He offers a crooked, pained sm…