“This heat is driving me crazy!”

As Xyxie wipes away the beads of sweat, I sympathetically nod, acknowledging the mounting discomfort that intensifies with each passing minute. Under the scorching sun, I stand in line with my cousins, Brian and Xyxie, waiting to register for an application exam at a local college. Impatience grows as the relentless heat irritates Xyxie, and the congestion inside the school building adds to our discomfort.

The sun beats with unforgiving intensity, casting a sweltering heat over the crowded college campus. I join the long line alongside my cousins and our anticipation is tempered by the stifling environment. Beads of sweat form on my forehead, dampening my hairline as I fan myself with a piece of paper.

The line stretches ahead of us, seeming to stretch endlessly into the distance. I hadn't anticipated such a large turnout for the exam, and frustration began to seep in.

I glance at Xyxie, whose furrowed brows and grimace betray her irritation. She wipes her forehead with the back of her hand, her annoyance evident.

“Can you believe how long this line is? It feels like we've been standing here for ages.”

I scan the surroundings, desperately searching for a spot of shade to escape the punishing sun. However, the few trees offering respite are already occupied by others seeking relief from the heat.

“There's no space left under the trees. We'll have to tough it out a little longer.” I said. “We’re also not VIPS.”

Brian pulls out a handkerchief, mopping her twin's forehead with a sigh. “Just wait, it's the first day of application. You wouldn't expect a small amount of applicants, do you?”

The line inches forward, teasing us with the hope of progress. But as we shuffle along, we are exposed again to the direct glare of the sun, intensifying the discomfort.

“Finally, some movement. Let's hope we reach the registration area soon.” I looked forward as the line progressed. We trudge forward as the air is filled with sighs and muttered complaints.

"Yes!" Xyxie couldn't contain her excitement, and her exclamation echoed through the account office, drawing curious glances from those around her.

Her radiant aura and confident demeanor set her apart from the rest, making her a magnet for attention. Heads turned in her direction, but Xyxie was in her world, completely unfazed by the onlookers.

"Seriously, can you believe the nerve of some people?"

I overheard one of the applicants mutter under her breath. She seemed to be scolding us for daring to complain, but honestly, who could blame us? Complaining was practically a national pastime at this point, and we were all in the same boat here. This school wasn't just for the privileged elite, after all.

The comment made me scrunch up my face, like she was just asking for trouble. I was ready to brush it off and move on when Xyxie, ever the firebrand, stepped right up to the plate.

"You should learn to keep quiet too, because you're not the only applicant here," Xyxie shot back, her voice sharp and unyielding.

I couldn't help but marvel at Xyxie's presence. With her towering height and model-worthy physique, she commanded attention like a force of nature. Her arched brow and fierce gaze gave her an aura of intimidation that few could match. It was like she was born to lead, and woe betide anyone who dared cross her.

The tension in the room crackled as the two women locked eyes, both refusing to back down. I knew better than to mess with Xyxie when she was in this mood – she had a reputation for being a warrior when provoked.

But the audacious applicant didn't seem to know what she was up against. Maybe she was new here or just plain foolish. Either way, she was playing with fire, and I couldn't help but wonder if she'd soon regret it.

I couldn't help but shake my head and smirk as nobody dared to challenge Xyxie's strong personality. She confidently filled out the form in her hand the moment we stepped into the accounting office.

"Let's treat ourselves after this, Carmienne," she suggested while we paid the fees. Brian, standing next to her, seemed to almost groan at her idea. He knew better than to argue with his brat twin sister. She was quite the spoiled one.

"Oh, my gosh!" she suddenly squealed, and I rolled my eyes at her unpredictable mood swings. "It's your birthday! We have to throw a huge party!"

"That's not a good plan."

"Nonsense! It's a great idea!"

"Trust me, it's not," Brian argued, trying to reason with her. Once we finished with the forms and accounting stuff, I decided to make my escape to the parking lot.

I headed to the room where I was going to take my exam while my cousins went a different way. We had all enrolled at Clifford University as freshmen. A fresh start and a new environment. Known as one of the top schools in the South, Clifford University had a reputation for excellence in academics and a vibrant social scene.

As time ticked away, I finally wrapped up my exam and handed it over to the proctor. With a sense of relief, I made a beeline for the exit, eager to leave the exam room behind. As I stepped outside, my phone buzzed with a text from my sister, wishing me a happy birthday. I quickly replied before spotting my cousins waiting in the car at the parking lot.

"I'm taking the wheel," I declared. He protested half-heartedly, knowing it was futile to argue on my special day. "Thanks, couz."

"Just count yourself lucky I didn't bring my car, Carms," Brian mumbled as he settled into the backseat. Beside me, Xyxie let out a squeal of excitement, mirroring my own jubilant mood.

"Everyone in, let's hit the road! It's going to be an epic day... and night!"

I chuckled at her boundless enthusiasm. Xyxie and I were kindred spirits when it came to our hobbies and attitudes. We both loved to party, but we also knew how to keep things in check. And like her, I was a model, proud to be part of a well-known industry company that I genuinely enjoyed working for.

Around eight in the evening, we finally rolled up to the bar. Xyxie, being her usual bratinella self, got this brilliant idea to stop by a local mall on our way here. And how it goes when Xyxie gets an idea; there's no stopping her.

She has this way of convincing us to go along with her plans, no matter how wild they may seem. Trying to tame her attitude is like trying to tame a wild lioness – it's just not gonna happen. We practically turned that mall upside down as she could be a personal shopper with the way she effortlessly puts together killer outfits.

As I drove, the wind played with our hair, and the sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting a golden hue over everything. The night stretched before us. Who knew what surprises awaited us as we set off on this birthday adventure?

With excitement coursing through our veins, we eagerly made our way to the bar, drawn by the vibrant energy that spilled out onto the streets. The moment we stepped inside, it was like entering another world. The atmosphere was electric, alive with the pulsating beats of the music that seemed to reverberate through every fiber of our being.

Neon lights adorned the walls, painting the room in a kaleidoscope of colors that danced to the rhythm of the music. It felt like being immersed in a cosmic wonderland, where time seemed to lose its grip and only the present moment mattered.

Laughter and chatter filled the air, creating a symphony of sound that harmonized with the melodies pouring from the speakers. The crowd was a sea of bodies swaying and moving in sync with the music, their energy infectious and intoxicating. The bar was alive with a riot of sounds and sights. The stereo blasted loud music, setting the atmosphere on fire. It was a wild and spirited scene, and we were right in the thick of it.

Xyxie wasted no time and pulled me straight to the bustling counter, where the bartender was busy whipping up concoctions like a mad scientist. With a confident grin, she placed her order. Meanwhile, Brian sat beside us, playing the responsible one. He had his eyes on us, making sure we didn't overdo it with the drinks. After all, he was the designated driver, and there was no way he would let us get too carried away.

"Hey, Xy, easy on the shots," Brian gently reminded his twin. "You know Dad won't be happy if you go overboard."

But Xyxie just shrugged off his concern, always so sure of herself. With a devil-may-care attitude, she downed the first shot the waiter brought over without missing a beat.

"You worry too much," she said, her voice full of mischief. "Dad's got a soft spot for me, you know that."

I was just kicking back, celebrating my birthday in style. Who cares about rules when you're a curious teenager, right? I'm not one to let regulations hold me back. Besides, we found this cool bar that sort of turned a blind eye to us. They had this little section for us away from the adults, and thanks to Xy's awesome shopping skills, we managed to blend in and look the part.

Brian, always the responsible one, couldn't resist giving us a warning. "We're out of here in an hour, got it? Or I'm gonna call security to haul us out." He even pulled out his phone for dramatic effect, trying to scare us. I couldn't help but roll my eyes at his attempt.

"Oh, relax, Bri," I said, taking a sip of my drink and feeling the warmth slide down my throat. It wasn't my first time having a drink, but I usually kept it on the down-low. Tonight, though, was different. I wanted to taste the freedom I had been missing out on.

Closing my eyes, I savored the sensation, letting the thrill of the forbidden wash over me. It was liberating, embracing this newfound freedom, even if it was just for a little while. I had spent so long being secluded from this world, but now, I was all in, ready to explore every inch of it.

As the night wore on, the bar transformed into a playground of adventure and excitement. The neon lights flickered, casting a seductive glow over the crowd. The air was charged with energy, a blend of laughter, music, and the heady aroma of drinks swirling around us.

I felt an unexpected spark, something stirring within me. Maybe it was the drinks talking or the adrenaline pumping through my veins, but there was an undeniable connection growing stronger between me and the crowd. As if someone was watching me.

"Let's hit the dance floor!" I exclaimed, dragging them along with me. Xy was an absolute wild child, dancing up a storm with her twin, who was keeping his stoic composure. I couldn't help but laugh out loud as I let loose and moved to the beat of the music, the alcohol slowly starting to take its effect.

I danced like there was no tomorrow, my long hair swaying with every move. People often said I was attractive and seductive, and I couldn't deny that I knew it too.

My brown eyes had a way of captivating others, and my physique seemed to draw people in, regardless of their age. From my high cheekbones to my long eyelashes and luscious lips, my appearance had a certain allure that I couldn't ignore. I was confident in my beauty, and I didn't feel the need to compete with others, knowing there were plenty of beautiful people out there.

As the night wore on, I could feel the warmth of the alcohol spreading through my body. I hadn't downed too many drinks, but it seemed to have a stronger effect than I expected. My body felt heated, and even the lightest touch from someone could send a shiver down my spine. It was like a fire was ignited within me, and I couldn't help but revel in the exhilarating rush.

The hands on my waist sent a shiver down my spine, and my long hair was swept aside to reveal my naked shoulder. I felt someone's warm breath on my skin, causing me to instinctively pull away from his touch. But despite my reaction, there was an inexplicable craving within me, a desire for more of his touch... His warmth.

I stole a quick glance at the person who had stirred such sensations in me. He was a man in his early twenties, and oh my goodness, he was undeniably handsome.

His hair was styled in a messy textured pompadour, with a low fade adding a touch of rugged charm. His thick eyebrows framed his intense gaze, and his squared jawline added an air of strength to his demeanor. His nose had a distinct shape, pointing to his chiseled features. But it was his perfectly proportioned lips that drew my attention, leaving me breathless.

Damn, he was one hot guy.

Despite my racing heart and the sudden rush of adrenaline, I tried to regain my composure. It was like my body had a mind of its own, reacting to him on a primal level. But I couldn't let myself get carried away. I needed to keep my cool and figure out why this guy had such an effect on me.

As I stood there, trying to process the whirlwind of emotions that surged through me, he glanced back at me with a hint of a mischievous smile playing on his lips. But there was something in his eyes, something deeper and more profound, that contradicted the playful expression on his face. It was like his eyes held a secret. I couldn't help but feel drawn to this enigmatic man. He was like a puzzle waiting to be solved.

I couldn't help but smirk as I caught him eyeing me with a dark intensity. It was like my actions had taken him by surprise, and I reveled in the power I seemed to have over him. But before things could escalate any further, I swiftly pulled away from his touch, not wanting to let him ignite something inside me that I wasn't ready for.

"You want something from me?" I raised an eyebrow, a hint of challenge in my voice. Frankly, I didn't have time to deal with him right now.

He pursed his lips, his emerald green eyes roaming over my figure. I could feel the intensity of his gaze as it traveled up from my waist to meet my own brown eyes again.

"You're a minor," he finally said, his voice low and somewhat stern.

"How did you say so?" I exclaimed loudly, not caring who heard. I smoothed down my short dress, refusing to let his words bother me.

He looked dangerous, like he could set my heart on fire with just one glance. The moment his touch grazed my skin, my heart went into overdrive, beating so fast I thought it might burst out of my chest. Gosh, I've never felt like this before.

I spotted my cousins at the counter, and Xyxie was in Brian's arms, out like a light. I must've looked like a mess, my heels making me limp after dancing for what felt like an eternity.

Brian shot me a disapproving glare as he took in my state. But I wasn't about to let him lecture me. I knew I needed to get out of here, and fast.

"I know. Let's go," I said before he could even open his mouth. There was no need for words between us. He understood, and we made our way out of the pulsating crowd.

As we stepped into the cool night air, I couldn't shake the feeling of that hot guy’s touch lingering on my skin. It was like an electric charge that left me breathless and craving for more. But I also knew that he was dangerous in more ways than one, and I needed to protect my heart from getting too involved.

Yet, despite my attempts to suppress my emotions, I couldn't deny the spark he ignited within me. It was like he had unraveled something deep inside, something that had been dormant until this very moment.

I couldn't help but wonder what the future held. Fate had a funny way of intertwining lives, and I had a feeling our paths would cross again.

As we walked away from the chaotic scene, I couldn't help but steal a glance back at him but he was no longer there. He was dangerous, that much was certain, but there was also a hint of mystery in his eyes that tugged at my heartstrings.

It was pouring cats and dogs outside, and I had to play the knight in shining armor, helping my cousin open the car door for Xyxie. Despite all the shots I had, I miraculously managed to keep my balance and not stumble on my way. Guess I've got a high tolerance for alcohol.

"Fuck!" I muttered, swiping the cold water off my skin as the rain soaked me through. Brian gave me a worried look as he glanced between me and his twin, Xyxie.

"We should find a hotel or something. There's no way we can make it back to our place in this weather," Brian suggested, concern etched on his face.

"Alright, let's take some shortcuts then. Staying here isn't an option," I agreed, trying to keep my cool despite the situation.

Brian expertly maneuvered the car through the dark and rain-soaked streets, the malfunctioning streetlights only adding to the eerie atmosphere. I leaned back in my seat, staring out the window, lost in my thoughts.

But then, out of nowhere, the car's engine started acting up. Brian's face shifted from concentration to concern as he struggled to control the car. Panic started to rise within me as I felt the car losing control.

"There's no brake..." Brian mumbled, his voice tense.

As the rain poured relentlessly outside, the world around me suddenly turned into a blur of chaos. Before I could even process what was unfolding, a blinding light flashed before my eyes, momentarily blinding me. The next thing I knew, a deafening crash filled the air, and the car violently collided with us.

The impact was jarring, and I felt my head slam hard against the window, sending a sharp wave of pain through my skull. My senses were overwhelmed, and I felt disoriented as everything seemed to fade into darkness.