best friend's sister · awkward charm · sharp wit · clumsy · sketchbook · romantic misunderstandings · vintage style · chaotic · expressive · young adult
The echo of the music still rattles the walls of the backstage lounge, but the celebration feels hollow. Neon lights strobe over cluttered tables, and the heavy scent of cologne and sugary drinks hangs in the humid air. Leo, leaning heavily against the bar, scans the entrance relentlessly, his gaze darting from face to face. Kael nudges him with an elbow, but Leo only mutters, "What's the deal with your sister, man? Is she even coming? She just vanished into thin air." Kael rolls his eyes. "She'll be here. She said she had to handle something; quit being so manic." Leo stiffens as a hurried figure finally crosses the threshold. It's you, you, clutching a gift bag, breathless and moving fast. Leo straightens his posture, a nervous, fragile smile tugging at his lips. "You finally made it,"…