ARIA’S POV
We were in no mood to shop. Today, the mall seemed kind of boring as well, and I spot no new collection. The lack of excitement in the air mirrors our own disinterest, and the absence of any intriguing finds dampens our spirits further.
“Should we head to the bar instead? I’m bored liere.”
Finally I tell Stella because she seems far from fascinated of being here.
“Thank God! Yeah! I want to get out of here and have a few drinks.”
We giggle our way to the parking lot, for the first time, empty–handed. Despite the lackluster shopping trip, the camaraderie between Stella and me brightens the mood, and we share a light–hearted moment as we make our way back to the car.
We reach to the very famous bar in the area, Cheers & Chill. As we step into the bar, the warm glow of dim lighting envelops me, casting a cozy ambiance over the space. The faint hum of chatter and laughter fills the air, mingling with the clinking of glasses and the soft melodies drifting from the speakers.
The aroma of aged whiskey and aromatic cocktails tantalizes my senses, inviting me to indulge in the evening’s libations. The eclectic décor, with its mismatched furniture and vintage accents, adds character to the space, while
the friendly bartenders and patrons create a sense of conviviality. It’s a place where worries fade away, and good times are always on tap.
“Isn’t it great, here?”
Stella is equally amazed as me at the ambiance. Her eyes widen in appreciation as she takes in the cozy yet vibrant atmosphere of the bar. We exchange a knowing glance, silently acknowledging that we’ve stumbled upon a gem of a place. The lively chatter and inviting warmth of the surroundings make us feel right at home, and we eagerly anticipate the memorable moments that await us in this enchanting setting.
After a few drinks, our mood is lightened a bit. However, soon our good moment gets disturbed by some men who are constantly hitting on us. Their persistent advances interrupt our conversation and make us feel uncomfortable in our own space. Despite our attempts to brush them off politely, they continue to encroach upon our evening, casting a shadow over the previously carefree atmosphere.
“Gosh! If I knew such things would happen, I would have never come here.”
Stella sighs, clearly, feeling uncomfortable.
“That’s because we’re alone.”
I tell her and she nods in agreement.
“I’ll go to the restroom. You want to come?”
“You go. I’ll go after.”
Stella heads off in a swift pace to the restroom, and I can sense her urgency to return to my side quickly. The unspoken understanding between us is palpable, as we both seek refuge from the unwelcome attention of the persistent suitors.
As she disappears from view, I can’t help but feel a twinge of concern for her safety in the midst of the rowded
bar.
It has been more than fifteen minutes since Stella went, and she is still not back. It’s kind of strange as Stella is
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CHAPTER 113
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always very fast. The longer her absence stretches, the more my concern deepens, gnawing at the edges of my mind with worry. I glance nervously towards the hallway leading to the restroom door, willing her to return safely and wondering what could be causing the delay.
Then I make up my mind to go and check on her. As I reach to my horror, I spot Stella being cornered by three men. They are pestering her, their invasive behavior evident from the way they invade her personal space. Anger boils within me as I rush forward, determined to intervene and put an end to their harassment.
“Leave her alone!”
My tone is harsh as I confront them, and all of them turn their gaze towards me, smirking
“Look! Another yummy piece of meat.”
One of them jeers, his words dripping with lewdness and disrespect. The crude remark ignites a surge of within me, fueling my resolve to protect Stella and put an end to their despicable behavior.
anger
I frown at them, my fists clenched with anger, wanting to beat the soul out of them. I position myself in a southpaw stance, ready to defend myself and protect Stella from their advances. The adrenaline courses through my veins, heightening my senses as I prepare to confront the perpetrators and stand my ground.
They all laugh before trying to assault me, but what they don’t know is that I have been a boxing champion and I can do my level best to take them down.
