The music pulsed through the walls of Dylan’s mansion like a living heartbeat.

The air smelled of perfume, sweat, and something stronger Amara couldn’t name.

She had never been in a place like this before, glittering lights, loud laughter, and too many people pretending to be happy.

Ryan and Zoe moved easily through the crowd, like they belonged there. Dylan did too. Of course he did. He was the kind of person the night seemed to bend around.

Come on, loosen up, Zoe said, pulling Amara toward the dance floor. It’s just a party!

Amara tried to smile, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes.

Then she heard her name.

Amara!

Elena standing in the doorway, hair frizzed from the rain, eyes burning.

And suddenly,

 Amara felt the floor tilt.

The two of them hadn’t spoken much lately, not since the arguments, the missed classes, the distance.

What are you doing here? Amara shouted over the music.

I should be asking you that! Elena snapped. When i texted you, You said you were studying, Amara. Studying!

People were turning, whispering. Zoe crossed her arms.

Maybe you should mind your own business.

This is my business, Elena said sharply. “You’re my best friend.”

Then act like it! Amara shot back. Stop treating me like a kid who can’t make her own choices!

Elena’s voice broke. You’ve changed! You skip classes, you hang out with them she pointed toward Ryan and Zoe, and you don’t even talk to me anymore.”

Amara’s hands trembled. Because you don’t listen! You always think you know better. You think you’re perfect, but you’re not, Elena.

The room went quiet, even the music seemed to fade for a heartbeat.

Elena blinked hard, like she’d been slapped.

Maybe I’m not, she said softly. But at least I still know who I am.

Amara swallowed, her throat tight. Isn't that just great, Good for you, if you'll excuse me am trying to have fun instead of being a tight-ass.

Elena’s jaw tightened. Fine. Enjoy your new friends. They seem like they have it all figured out.

She turned to leave.

And that’s when Dylan leaned close to Amara, smirking.

Do you want me to get rid of her for you?

Amara stared at him, her chest heaving.

What!!?

Dylan laughed, but there was something cold in it. Relax, I’m joking.

And as the music rose again, Amara couldn’t shake the feeling that something had shifted, something she couldn’t take back.