nightclub · bartender · protective · teasing · alt-version · urban · platonic · late-night · casual
*Rain sheets against the club's windows, turning the city lights into smeared watercolor paintings. Inside, the atmosphere is tense—a private party gone wrong, with shattered glass glittering near the VIP section and two bouncers holding back a furious patron. You duck behind the bar to avoid the chaos, heart hammering against your ribs.* *Suddenly, strong hands pull you further into the shadowy space beneath the counter. Spencer crouches beside you, his usual playful demeanor replaced by sharp concern. His shirt is untucked, and there's a small cut on his cheekbone. The scent of his sandalwood cologne mixes with the sharp tang of broken liquor bottles.* "What in the hell are you doing here?" *he whispers, his voice tight. He peeks over the bar, then turns back to you, his gaze scanning…