*temp tears false
*temp hate_party false
It's a tradition: to throw a party at one of the classmates' big houses after exams—a loud, carefree night to celebrate surviving the grueling routines of academy life.

Tonight's party, however, marks a more… special occasion.

As you watch yourself in the mirror, your reflection blurs while your mind keeps drifting back to the event that took place just hours ago yet feels surreal, 
despite your ears still ringing from the blaring electronic sound of the official state anthem that played during the ceremony.

Your graduation ceremony.

Though you've already changed, your shoulders still carry the weight of the thick fabric of your uniform, which doesn't match with the lightness of the paper certificate you received today, 
after reciting the oath you had memorized by heart.

What lies ahead is uncertain, filled with even harder and more dangerous challenges, but tonight should be free from those worries—especially since this party will be special in so many ways.

*fake_choice
	#You love parties and, despite today's events, look forward to have fun.
		*set mc_party 1
	#You hate parties, but the occasion is too special to miss this one.
		*set mc_party 2
		*set hate_party true
	#You have mixed feelings, but you hope you can forget about it tonight.
		*set mc_party 3
Today's party is special, and not just because it's a graduation celebration.

Tonight, the students of your academic year will spend their final moments together before parting ways. 

And, while Fallenmor may be a small town, you're certain that many of you may never see each other again.

Some of you will be assigned to remote stations, others to different locations through the academy's partnership programs, 
and some will face situations where a single wrong move could cost everything.

A career in law enforcement comes with a price.

That's why this party is more than just a celebration; it's a chance to create lasting memories, to make these moments—and the lives of those around you—count.

This special occasion requires a matching dress code, and even those who usually wear only hoodies and a pair of jeans are going to dress nicely—to honor the significance of the event.

Your focus shifts back to your reflection, your eyes tracing the lines of your chosen attire.

*fake_choice
	#It's [b]polished:[/b] a dress shirt with a few unbuttoned buttons and straight trousers.
		*set clothes "shirt and trousers"
		*set style 1
	#It's [b]polished:[/b] a crisp shirt and a bodycon skirt with a side split.
		*set clothes "shirt and skirt"
		*set style 1
	#It's [b]polished:[/b] an elegant mid-length dress with bare shoulders.
		*set clothes "dress"
		*set style 1
	#It's [b]revealing:[/b] a blouse with a deep V-neckline, paired with the leather pants.
		*set clothes "blouse and leather pants"
		*set style 2
	#It's [b]revealing:[/b] a cropped long sleeve and a high-waisted mini skirt.
		*set clothes "long sleeve and skirt"
		*set style 2
	#It's [b]revealing:[/b] a mini dress with a plunging back and cut-out arm sleeves.
		*set clothes "dress"
		*set style 2
	#It's [b]flamboyant:[/b] a patterned shirt with an open collar and wide-legged pants.
		*set clothes "shirt and pants"
		*set style 3
	#It's [b]flamboyant:[/b] a matching-colored top with flowy sleeves and a ruffled skirt.
		*set clothes "top and skirt"
		*set style 3
	#It's [b]flamboyant:[/b] a brightly colored one-sleeve layered dress.
		*set clothes "dress"
		*set style 3
*label details
You also…

*fake_choice
	*if (mc_bold = false) and (h_lenght != "buzzcut")
		*disable_reuse #…styled your @{h_styled hair in a slightly more special way for the party|hair}.
			*set h_styled true
			*goto details
	*disable_reuse #…put on some makeup.
		*set makeup true
		*goto details
	*disable_reuse #…balanced your outfit with some accessories.
		*goto details
		*set accessories true
	#…made sure your phone is charged.
		*goto L_proceed1
*goto L_proceed1

*label L_proceed1
Making sure your phone is fully charged, you check your reflection one last time before taking a deep breath and turning away, 
exiting the room—the one you always occupy at ${lex_name}'s apartment if you're staying overnight.

The reason you're preparing here today, specifically, is because it would take you much longer to go home, change out of your uniform, 
and head back to the party—especially considering you live on the other side of town.

It was ${lex_name} who suggested you get ready together, and, knowing that this day would be difficult, you're grateful for it. But you could never have predicted how much 
worse this ceremony would turn out to be for you.

For both of you.

Following your thoughts, you cautiously make your way to ${lex_name}'s room only to find it empty. 

Your gaze shifts down the hallway, and you notice the bathroom door is still closed.

A tightness forms in your chest, but you force yourself to push forward into the kitchen.

*page_break This day was supposed to be a happy one.
But no matter how hard you tried to suppress everything, with your sister still in the middle of exams at Ashborne, seeing the other graduates surrounded by their families, siblings, 
and relatives only deepened the emptiness that will never settle or find peace.

Because Aunt Heidi is gone, your sister isn't here, and—

[b][i]Don't.[/i][/b] You clench your jaw and take a deep breath.

Today has reminded you of how alone you truly are, and how much ${lex_name}'s presence has eased that feeling all this time.

As for ${lex_name}…

You never thought ${lex_she} could truly understand how you felt until you saw ${lex_his} parents at the ceremony, arriving—judging by ${lex_name}'s expression—unannounced.

${lex_name} has ${lex_his} mother's eyes, but in ${wom_hrs}, there's none of the warmth you're used to seeing in your friend's ones. Instead, ${wom_his} gaze held no emotion, 
unlike the others who showed so much today.

*page_break They were cold, detached, condescending.
Seeing ${lex_name}'s parents and feeling the tremor in ${lex_his} clammy hand as ${lex_she} reached out to squeeze yours before leaving to greet them made you realize that you can still feel alone, 
even when surrounded by family.

You weren't sure which 'alone' was worse—${lex_hrs} or yours—but it hardly mattered when, a few minutes later, ${lex_his} parents got in their car and drove away, 
while ${lex_name} stood exactly where they had left ${lex_him}, frozen and unmoving.

You immediately realized that something was wrong.

As you stepped closer to ${lex_him}, you met ${lex_his} vacant eyes, which seemed to come alive only when you gently called ${lex_his} name, causing tears to stream down ${lex_his} face.

${lex_name} cried silently all the way home, and even after, locked ${lex_him}self in the bathroom, away from everything.

Away from you.

You considered asking if you should skip the party, but when you heard ${lex_name} quietly moving to ${lex_his} room to get ready, you had no choice but to do the same.

*fake_choice
	*if (mc_party != 2) #A party is just what you need to take your mind off everything—for both of you.
		You know ${lex_name} wants to go to the party to have fun and forget about everything, losing ${lex_him}self in the noise and the alcohol. 
		You feel the need to let things go just for this night as well.

		[i]But maybe ${lex_she}'s changed ${lex_his} mind,[/i] 
	*if (mc_party = 2) #You don't like it, but you know ${lex_name} want to go to take ${lex_his} mind off everything.
		Although you don't like parties, you know ${lex_name} wants to go—to have fun and forget everything, losing ${lex_him}self in the noise and the alcohol. 
		
		You feel the need to let things go just for this night as well, so you can relate, but…

		[i]Maybe ${lex_she}'s changed ${lex_his} mind,[/i] 
	#Maybe you shouldn't go to the party and instead spend this evening together.
		*set party_shouldnt true
		*if (mc_party = 1)
			While you do love parties, a part of 
		*if (mc_party = 2)
			While you hate parties, it's not the only reason why 
		*if (mc_party = 3)
			Although you have mixed feelings about the party, a part of 
		you feel that maybe you shouldn't go and instead spend this evening together.

		Knowing ${lex_name}, you understand exactly why ${lex_she} wants to go: to forget everything and lose ${lex_him}self in ${lex_she} noise, the chaos, and the alcohol. Even if just for tonight…

		[i]But maybe ${lex_she}'s changed ${lex_his} mind,[/i] 
you @{hate_party think hopefully|think}, glancing at the time. 

Earlier this morning, ${lex_name} had booked a cab for a specific time, but considering it's already almost time and ${lex_she} still hasn't come out yet…

[i]If ${lex_she} doesn't come out in the next ten minutes, then—[/i]

Before you can finish your thought, a soft sound of the door opening fills your ears. 

You turn toward the doorway, trying to push the concern down, but it's impossible to ignore as you hear ${lex_his} quiet footsteps approaching. You think about what to say, 
how to ask if everything's okay—but then ${lex_she} steps into view.

*page_break Everything stills.
${lex_name} pauses in the doorway, frozen just like you, and for a long moment, the only sound in the room is the quickening thrum of your heartbeat, 
ignited by the same invisible force that makes it impossible to look away as your eyes take ${lex_him} in.

It was hard to recognize ${lex_him} in the uniform—especially since ${lex_she}'s the type who usually wears hoodies and jeans, even at parties. 
But never before you've seen ${lex_him} look like [i]this[/i].

*if (L_gen = 1)
	Everything about ${lex_his} outfit accentuates ${lex_his} toned frame. The dark shirt, perfectly fitted and made of smooth, rich fabric, clings to ${lex_him} in all the right places. 

	The black tailored pants are held in place by a simple belt, the metal buckle matching the watch ${lex_his} hand adjusts, frozen at ${lex_his} wrist.

	$!{lex_his} wavy hair, usually tousled with a few charmingly disheveled strands, is styled neatly now, 
*if (L_gen = 2)
	Everything about ${lex_his} mini dress exudes allure. The auburn-colored faux leather material hugs ${lex_his} every curve, 
	making your breath catch in your throat as your eyes are drawn to the subtle slits on the outer thighs—just enough to reveal a hint more of ${lex_his} skin.

	You practically force yourself to look upward, only for your eyes to stumble on a thin, delicate ribbon adorning ${lex_his} neck, 
	its end disappearing into the deep neckline of ${lex_his} dress.
	
	Even from a distance, you catch the faint freckles on ${lex_his} bare shoulders, partially hidden beneath the fabric of the semi-transparent, 
	flowy sleeves that teasingly reveal the outline of ${lex_his} arms.

	$!{lex_his} wavy hair, usually tied up, is styled differently now—loose and straightened, 
adding a sleek sharpness to ${lex_his} appearance that you've seen in ${lex_his} parents but never in ${lex_him}.

[i]${lex_name} looks… gorgeous.[/i]

But as you force your gaze return to ${lex_his} face, the lingering redness in the corners of ${lex_his} eyes 
@{L_gen makes|and slight puffiness of ${lex_his} eyelids are still noticeable even with the makeup, making} your chest tighten.

*fake_choice
	#@{icon ❤️ |}You move closer first, stopping right beside ${lex_him} as you say, "You look @{L_gen handsome|beautiful}."
		*set mc_bold true
		As ${lex_name}'s gaze finally finds yours, ${lex_she} smiles weakly. "Hey…"

		$!{lex_his} voice, soft and a little @{L_gen hoarse|raspy}, sends a shiver down your spine, and before you know it, you close the distance between you, 
		stopping only when there's less than a step separating you.
		
		${lex_name} doesn't move, 
		*if (L_tall <= 2)
			${lex_his} head tilting upward to meet your gaze. 
		*if (L_tall >= 3)
			${lex_his} eyes never leaving yours. 
		You want to ask if ${lex_she} is okay, if you can do anything, but you see the vulnerability in ${lex_his} eyes—a silent plea for you not to ask.

		Not tonight.
		
		Your fingers itch with the urge to caress ${lex_his} cheek—a touch that wouldn't be appropriate because you're just friends. But how else could you show the power ${lex_she} holds over you, 
		that you can't say no to ${lex_him}?

		You know you can't ask ${lex_him}, but there's so much left unsaid. 
		
		*page_break And yet, somehow, you manage to speak.
		"You look…" The words come out rough, and you pause, your eyes scanning ${lex_him} over before meeting ${lex_hrs} again. "…so @{L_gen handsome|beautiful}."

		A soft breath escapes ${lex_his} lips. "R-Really?" ${lex_name} asks, as if unsure, looking away before nervously 
		@{L_gen adjusting ${lex_his} styled|tangling ${lex_his} fingers through ${lex_his} straightened} hair. "I… I mean—"
		
		"Yes," you answer earnestly, and, unable to resist, you reach @{L_tall out|out|out|up|up} and gently 
		@{L_gen fix a few loose strands of hair that had fallen out of place from ${lex_his} earlier fumbling|tug at the strand of hair ${lex_she}'s playing with}, 
		causing ${lex_his} gaze return to yours. "Really."
		
		*if (L_gen = 1)
			You move your fingers delicately and slowly, savoring this moment to the point where you have to force yourself to pull away.

			But before you can fully withdraw you hand, 
		*if (L_gen = 2)
			You pull it softly, and it slips from ${lex_his} fingers, both of you watching the movement until you force yourself to pull your hand back.
			
			But before you can fully withdraw, 
		${lex_name} catches your wrist, ${lex_his} touch so soft and tender that it sends a surge of heat through you. 
		
		It takes every ounce of willpower not to close your eyes, savoring the feeling of ${lex_his} skin against yours.
		
		"Thank you…" ${lex_she} murmur, the pupils of ${lex_his} forest green eyes darken. "You look gorgeous, too. And…" 
		
		*page_break Slowly, ${lex_his} eyes scan your appearance again.
		After watching your for a second longer than necessary, ${lex_name} bites ${lex_his} lip—the gesture so distracting it almost knocks the breath from your chest.
		
		*if (style = 1)
			"…Very @{MC_gen sharp|elegant|sharp}. Perfect. 
		*if (style = 2)
			"So… enticing. 
		*if (style = 3)
			"I love your vibrant outfit… It really suits you. 
		More than that…" ${lex_she} finally says, ${lex_his} tone slightly breathless as ${lex_his} gaze returns to yours. "When I saw you, I just…"
		
		"You just what…?" you ask, a smirk tugging at your lips. 
		
		${lex_name} looks at you through ${lex_his} lashes before letting out a sigh. "I'm just really happy you're here, and that we prepare together for 
		@{hate_party tonight. Especially since you almost always skip the parties|tonight}."

		$!{lex_his} words make you smile 
		*if (party_shouldnt = false)
			soften. "@{mc_party Me|I couldn't miss this one, and, but I'm glad,|Me} too. Are you finished and ready to go?"

			"Almost. I just—" 
		*if (party_shouldnt = true)
			falter. "${lex_name}, about the party—"

			"Oh, right. I'm sorry we're running late because of me, I just—" 
	#@{icon 💙 |}Your words falter when ${lex_his} eyes meet yours, heavy with unspoken intensity.
		You part your lips to speak, ready to break the silence, when ${lex_name}'s eyes finally meet yours—heavy with something unspoken and intense that makes the words catch in your throat.

		"You're…" $!{lex_his} voice comes out soft yet thick, the hoarse undertone sending a shiver down your spine.
		
		Your heart pounds in your chest as you anticipate ${lex_him} to continue, but instead, ${lex_she} shortens the distance between you, stopping only inches away.
		
		The heat of ${lex_his} body instantly soaks the air, enveloping yours, making it harder to breathe—harder to think. And yet, you don't dare to move, 
		*if (L_tall <= 2)
			your gaze dropping downward to maintain eye contact.

			But ${lex_name} doesn't meet your gaze. 
		*if (L_tall = 3)
			your eyes never leaving ${lex_hrs}.
			
			But ${lex_name} doesn't meet your gaze. 
		*if (L_tall >= 4)
			tilting your head upward to maintain eye contact.
		
			But ${lex_name} doesn't meet your gaze. 
		$!{lex_his} eyes roam over you slowly, deliberately, tracing every curve, every line of your outfit in a way that makes your skin prickle.
		
		"…So @{MC_gen handsome|beautiful|gorgeous}," ${lex_name} murmurs at last, the tender words caressing every fiber of your body as ${lex_his} forest green eyes locks with yours, 
		darkening with something that makes your pulse race. 
		*if (style = 1)
			"@{MC_gen Very sharp|Elegant|Very sharp}. Perfect. 
		*if (style = 2)
			"@{MC_gen Captivating|Enticing|Captivating}… 
		*if (style = 3)
			"I love your vibrant outfit… It really suits you. 
		More than that…"
		
		"Thank you…" you reply quietly, the breathless tone of your voice betraying the effect ${lex_she} has on you. "You look @{MC_gen gorgeous|gorgeous|stunning} as well."
		
		For a moment, you both stand there, the air between you crackling, charged with electrifying heat neither of you is willing to break.

		*page_break And then, ${lex_name} finally smiles.
		The tenderness of ${lex_his} expression, laced with the deep sadness hidden in ${lex_his} eyes, shatters something within you. 
		
		You want to ask if ${lex_she}'s okay, if there's something—anything—you can do for ${lex_him}.

		As if reading your thoughts, ${lex_name}'s smile falters, and you see the vulnerability in ${lex_his} eyes—a silent plea for you not to ask.
		
		Not tonight.
		
		Your helplessness makes you feel weaker, and you look away first, understanding yet feeling… lacking. 
		
		But before the bitterness can settle, you feel the soft brush of ${lex_his} fingers against yours, compelling you to look at ${lex_him} again.
		
		The corners of ${lex_his} lips twitch upward in a ghost of a smile, yet the gratitude in ${lex_his} gaze runs deep, 
		intertwining with something heated when ${lex_his} hand slowly circles your wrist.
		
		"Did I already tell you that I'm really happy you're here, and that we prepared together for tonight?" ${lex_name} asks in a subdued tone, 
		${lex_his} thumb gently caressing your @{hate_party skin. "Especially since you almost always skip the parties," ${lex_she} adds|skin}, 
		drawing small circles before ${lex_she} squeezes your wrist gently and… lets go.

		You make an effort to swallow your disappointment, 
		*if (party_shouldnt = false)
			smiling softly before saying, "@{mc_party You just did, and it's mutual|I couldn't miss this one, and… it's mutual|You just did, and it's mutual}." You clear your throat. 
			"So, are you finished and ready to go?"

			"Almost. I just—" 
		*if (party_shouldnt = true)
			but the mention of the upcoming party shifts your focus to your previous concerns. "${lex_name}, about the party—"

			"Oh, right. I'm sorry we're running late because of me, I just—" 
	#"You look @{L_gen nice|lovely}," you say gently, giving ${lex_him} a small smile. "@{party_shouldnt ${lex_name}, about the party…|Are you ready?}"
		"Hey…" you say gently, giving ${lex_name} a small smile when ${lex_his} gaze finally found yours. "You look @{L_gen nice|lovely}."

		Your words softens ${lex_his} expression, and ${lex_name} smiles tenderly. "Thank you. You look stunning as well," ${lex_she} says, shortening the distance between you, 
		${lex_his} eyes traveling over you briefly before returning to yours.

		You want to ask if ${lex_she} is okay, if you can do anything, but you see the vulnerability in ${lex_his} eyes—a silent plea for you not to ask.

		Not tonight.

		*if (party_shouldnt = false)
			It's difficult to leave so much unsaid, but you push your concerns aside as you ask, "Are you finished and ready to go?"

			"Almost. I just—" 
		*if (party_shouldnt = true)
			But you can't just leave it at that. Taking a deep breath, you finally speak up, "${lex_name}, about the party—"

			"Oh, right. I'm sorry we're running late because of me, I just—" 
*if (L_gen = 1)
	*goto L_male
*if (L_gen = 2)
	*goto L_female
*finish

*comment ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*label L_male
$!{lex_she} sighs, looking almost frustrated.

*page_break 
Before you can @{party_shouldnt explain what you wanted to say|ask ${lex_him} to elaborate}, ${lex_name} steps away, heading back to the bathroom. $!{lex_she} returns moments later, 
holding manicure scissors in ${lex_his} hand.

"Could you help me with the label on my shirt?" ${lex_she} asks, handing them to you. "It's really itchy and driving me crazy."

You stare at the scissors for a moment before taking them from ${lex_him}. "Why didn't you just remove it before putting on the shirt?"

${lex_name} rolls ${lex_his} eyes, smiling sheepishly. "Because I don't usually wear clothes like this, so I didn't realize the label would feel so rough," ${lex_she} says, 
beginning to unbutton the top buttons.

Your heart skips a beat, and for a moment, your mind goes completely blank as your eyes follow the movement of ${lex_his} fingers, offering you a better view at— 

*page_break [i]Focus, ${name}.[/i]
You force yourself to meet ${lex_his} gaze again and say, "Can you sit? It'll be easier this way."

${lex_name} nods, and both of you move toward the table before ${lex_she} sits in one of the chairs.

Carefully, you reach for the collar of ${lex_his} shirt, gently pulling it away from ${lex_his} neck to get better access to the label on the back side.

As you do, your fingertips accidentally brush against ${lex_his} skin, causing ${lex_him} to flinch slightly before goosebumps spread across ${lex_his} neck.

$!{lex_his} reaction sends a rush of heat through you, and it takes all your willpower to suppress it as you say, "Sorry."

"No, it's okay…" ${lex_name} assures you a little too quickly, clearing ${lex_his} throat. "Just a bit ticklish."

You can't help but catch the subtle shift in ${lex_his} tone, and it makes your heart beat a little faster.

"I'll try to be more careful," you reply, lingering your gaze on the spot on ${lex_his} neck where the friction left a faint, red mark, before focusing back on the task at hand.

And yet, standing this close, you can't help but notice the faint dusting of freckles trailing across ${lex_his} back, ${lex_his} well-toned neck and shoulders, and the spicy, 
intoxicating scent of ${lex_his} shampoo that makes your head spin.

*page_break You swallow hard.
When you finally cut and smooth out the remaining edges of the label, you let out a small sigh. "All done."

For a moment, ${lex_name} remains still, ${lex_his} body tense with a silent, yet palpable hesitation.

However, before you can ask what's wrong, ${lex_she} stands up abruptly, muttering, "Thanks for the help…"

${lex_name} doesn't wait for your response, quickly taking the scissors and label remnants from your hand before moving deeper into the kitchen. 

Setting the scissors aside, ${lex_she} opens the cabinet with the trash bin and discards the pieces.

As ${lex_name} closes the cabinet, ${lex_she} places ${lex_his} palms flat against the countertop and remains there, not saying anything, not turning to face you.

$!{lex_his} hunched posture instantly heightens your concern. "…${lex_name}?"

"I… I wanted to apologize," ${lex_she} says quietly, ${lex_his} voice breaking at the end, betraying the vulnerability ${lex_she}'s been trying to suppress all this time. 
"I didn't want you to see me like this… again."

You press your lips together, feeling an odd sense of resolve as you shorten the distance and reach for ${lex_his} upper arms, gently turning ${lex_him} to face you.

*page_break ${lex_name} doesn't resist it.
Even facing you now, ${lex_name} refuses to meet your gaze, ${lex_his} expression blank as ${lex_she} stares at the ground, waiting for your response.

You release ${lex_his} arms, only to reach for ${lex_his} shirt and button it back up to the way it was before as you say, "Never apologize for something like that."

You're not sure if it's your words, your proximity, or both, but you watch ${lex_his} composure crack entirely.

*goto L_mf_merged

*comment ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*label L_female
$!{lex_she} sighs, looking almost frustrated, and before you can @{party_shouldnt explain what you wanted to say|ask ${lex_him} to elaborate}, ${lex_name} turns ${lex_his} back to you. 
"Will you help me with this?"

Your heart stutters in your chest, and for a moment, your mind goes completely blank.

*page_break You are doomed.
The back of ${lex_name}'s dress dips low, exposing the delicate curve of ${lex_his} spine, stopping just at the middle of ${lex_his} waist. 
The lacing that holds the plunging back in place is only half tied, the ends dangling loosely in an unspoken invitation that mirrors ${lex_his} request.

You swallow hard. "Of course."

Carefully, you reach for ${lex_his} loose locks, gently pushing them over ${lex_his} shoulder to clear the way.

As you do, your fingertips accidentally brush against ${lex_his} skin, causing ${lex_his} shoulder blade to twitch slightly before goosebumps spread across ${lex_his} back.

$!{lex_his} reaction sends a rush of heat through you, and it takes all your willpower to suppress the urge to touch ${lex_him} more, to let your fingers linger where they shouldn't, 
and instead focus on the task at hand.

Reaching for the laces, your hands begin to work, tightening each row methodically, stopping only when you see how the laces slightly digging into ${lex_his} skin.

Standing this close, you can't help but notice the faint dusting of freckles that trail across ${lex_his} back, the smoothness of ${lex_his} skin, and the sweet, 
intoxicating scent of ${lex_his} shampoo that makes your head spin, and—

"Tighter, please," ${lex_name} says quietly, causing you to freeze. $!{lex_she} glances at you over ${lex_his} shoulder, ${lex_his} eyes glinting with something languid, 
yet ${lex_his} tone remains steady as ${lex_she} repeats, "Fasten it a little tighter."

You nod, and ${lex_she} turns ${lex_his} head away.

*page_break [i]Hell…[/i]
When you finally tighten the last row of laces, you tie them into a bow as neatly as possible. Your hands are steady, but your mind is anything but.

"All done," you say, your voice coming out rougher than you intended, but ${lex_name} doesn't react—doesn't move or turn to face you. "…${lex_name}?"

"I… I wanted to apologize," ${lex_she} says softly, ${lex_his} voice breaking at the end, betraying the vulnerability ${lex_she}'s been trying to suppress all this time. 
"I didn't want you to see me like this… again."

You press your lips together, feeling a strange resolve as you reach for ${lex_his} shoulders, gently turning ${lex_him} to face you.

${lex_name} doesn't resist, ${lex_his} expression blank as ${lex_she} stares at the ground, refusing to meet your gaze.

You squeeze ${lex_his} shoulders a little tighter, your fingers tracing small circles as you say, "Never apologize for something like that."

You're not sure if it's your words, your touch, or both, but you watch ${lex_his} composure crack entirely, and you see ${lex_his} lower lip tremble.

*goto L_mf_merged

*comment ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*label L_mf_merged
"It's just… I didn't know they'd come, and…" ${lex_name} closes ${lex_his} eyes, letting out a shuddering breath. "Then they left. But it's—that's not even what really bothers me." 
$!{lex_his} gaze meets yours, ${lex_his} eyes glassy with unshed tears. "What if we… What if you…"

$!{lex_his} words makes your arms slowly fall to your sides.

*page_break You know what ${lex_she} wants to ask.
[i]Will we part ways after this? What if things change between us if we do? What if, after all these years, we just grow apart?[/i]

So many 'what if's' that were never voiced, because there was never the right moment. Between studies, exams, and all the preparations for the ceremony… 

There was always something standing in the way.

But you're worried, too. How could you not be? This is all you've known for the past four years—the late-night study sessions, the warmth of ${lex_his} presence, 
the shared smiles, the effortless flow of conversation, as though you two just… fit together.

What if that changes? What if it's never the same again?

[i]It won't… if you do something about it,[/i] a soft whisper echoes in your mind, quickening your pulse, each passing moment making your heart beat heavier in your chest.

@{mc_bold "${lex_name}, I—"|"${mcname_l}…" ${lex_name}'s soft voice cut through your thoughts, causing you to focus on ${lex_him} again. "What I'm trying to say is—"}

Suddenly, the sharp ring of ${lex_his} phone shatters the moment, leaving ${lex_his} words hanging in the air.

*page_break The cab has arrived.
${lex_name} sighs heavily, closing ${lex_his} eyes for a brief moment before picking up the phone. 

"Hello?" $!{lex_she} walks away from you, retreating to the far end of the kitchen. You exhale quietly, not realizing how tightly you'd been holding your breath until now.
"Yes, we're on our way down. Thanks…"

As soon as you hear those words, you head into the hallway, trying to shake off the moment and make sure you haven't forgotten anything.

${lex_name} follows a few moments later, glancing at you as if ${lex_she} wants to say something but then deciding against it, 
yet the unresolved tension of the interrupted moment lingers as both of you begin preparing to head out.

*if (mc_bold = true)
	When you bend down to put on your shoes, ${lex_name}'s voice suddenly cuts through the silence as ${lex_she} asks, "Before we were interrupted, what were you going to say?"

	Your gaze flicker to ${lex_him}, but ${lex_she} remains focused on the fastenings of ${lex_his} @{L_gen shoes|lace-up heels}, refusing to meet your gaze.
	
	As you watch ${lex_him}, the unspoken words pressing against your chest, heavy and unresolved. [i]The moment never feels right…[/i]

	"We'll talk about it later, okay?" you force yourself to say after a moment, straightening up. As ${lex_his} gaze finally locks with yours, you add, "I promise."

	${lex_name} holds your gaze for a moment longer before ${lex_she} gives you a small smile and nods,  
*if (mc_bold = false)
	Bending down to put on your shoes, the question slips out before you can stop it. "Before we were interrupted, what were you going to say?"

	${lex_name} pauses, ${lex_his} gaze growing distant before ${lex_she} focuses back on the fastenings of ${lex_his} @{L_gen shoes|lace-up heels}.

	"We'll discuss it later, okay?" ${lex_she} says after a moment, straightening up and finally meeting your gaze. "I promise."

	You nod, and ${lex_she} gives you a small smile before 
moving past you to open the door.

*page_break You can only hope that tonight will go well.

*comment ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[b]At the Party…[/b]

The private estate rented for the party looks really chic and expensive, and as soon as you step inside, the thumping bass of the music vibrates through your eardrums. 

The flashing lights, the noise, and a chaotic blend of voices pulsate with the beat of the music, momentarily disorienting you.

[i]@{hate_party I already want to leave|Looks like the party's in full swing}…[/i]

"Hey, you finally made it!" A familiar voice of your platoon leader calls out, slicing through the buzz of the crowd before you can move any further.

[i]Former platoon leader,[/i] you remind yourself, turning to face ${riv_him}. 

${riv_hug} meets your gaze with a playful grin, ${riv_his} hand landing on your shoulder with a firm, friendly slap.

"Sorry, we're a little late," you reply, your voice barely audible over the cacophony of the party.

"@{hate_party Relax! Considering you're a rare guest at parties|Relax}, I'm just happy you arrived at all. You look good, by the way," ${riv_hug} says, 
${riv_his} eyes lingering on you a little longer than necessary before shifting toward ${lex_name}. "Hey @{L_gen pal|girl}, how's it going?" ${riv_she} asks, 
@{L_gen reaching out to shake ${lex_name}'s hand|reaching out with one arm for a quick half-hug}.

"I'm good," ${lex_name} answers with a smile that doesn't reach ${lex_his} eyes, @{L_gen returning the handshake|returning the gesture}. "What about you?"

@{L_gen For|As they pull away from each other, just for} a moment, the air feels heavier, the subtle tension between them palpable even with the passing people around, 
but it's gone as soon as ${riv_hug} @{L_gen releases ${lex_his} hand|claps ${lex_name} on the shoulder}, ${riv_his} smile growing wider.

*page_break [i]Maybe I'm just imagining things…[/i]
"Me? I'm running around like a squirrel on a wheel," ${riv_hug} admits, turning ${riv_his} gaze back to yours. "The person who was supposed to help me in the kitchen got drunk before the party, 
so…" $!{riv_she} trails off and then squints at you, as if sizing you up.

You already have an idea of what ${riv_she}'s thinking. "Do you need help?"

${riv_hug} sighs. "Well, I wouldn't—"

The sudden loud cheer nearby drowns out ${riv_his} words, and you instinctively point to your ears. "Sorry, I can't hear you."

$!{riv_she} leans closer to your ear. "I wouldn't ask if you weren't the only one here I trust and who isn't drunk yet. Plus, it's better than doing twenty-five push-ups for being late, right?"

${riv_hug} says something else, but ${riv_his} words fail to reach you as you lock eyes with ${lex_name}, something heavy and familiar in ${lex_his} gaze freezing you in place. "…Yeah. We'll—"

*page_break "${lex_name}!"
A cheerful voice rings out, and just a moment later, its owner emerges from behind a group of people, wrapping ${mil_his} arms around ${lex_name} in a tight hug.

"Hi! I was starting to think you decided to skip the party," ${mil_she} says, ${mil_his} voice light and teasing.

$!{mil_she} pulls away before ${lex_name} can respond, ${mil_his} eyes scanning ${lex_him} from head to toe with an almost hungry gaze. "You look stunning! I almost didn't recognize you."

But it wasn't hard for you to recognize ${riv_mil}, a ${mil_guy} who, despite being from another platoon, 
became friends with ${lex_name} once they discovered they both went to the same gym and lived nearby.

${lex_name} smiles. "Hey, ${riv_mil}. You look stunning, too," ${lex_she} says, though for some reason, ${lex_his} eyes dart toward you.

It makes you feel… odd.

Following the direction of ${lex_his} gaze, ${riv_mil} smiles, waving at you. "Hi, ${name}!" $!{mil_his} eyes measure you from head to toe before ${mil_she} turns to ${lex_name}. 
"How long are we going to stand in the lobby? Everyone's already asking if you're going to show up!"

Hearing this is not a surprise. ${lex_name}'s friendly personality makes it easy for people to approach ${lex_him}, and ${lex_she} has a way of effortlessly connecting with others.

*fake_choice
	#Just like you.
		*set mc_friendly true
	#So unlike you.
"Don't steal my help, ${riv_mil}," ${riv_hug} cuts into the conversation, ${riv_his} voice sharp yet playful, making ${riv_mil} roll ${mil_his} eyes.

"Relax, nerd. I'm sure everyone will find their way to the drinks without you fretting over the table," ${mil_she} says with a smirk, ${mil_his} eyes already turning back to ${lex_name}. 
"Don't let ${riv_him} drag you to the kitchen, you just got here!"

${riv_hug} sighs, clearly used to ${mil_his} antics, and then turns ${riv_his} attention back to you. "I just need help with some takeout and a couple of trays, that's all. 
But ${mil_she}'s right, one of you would be enough to help me. Will you help?"

You can already feel the exhaustion creeping in from the constant noise and the raised voices needed to be heard over the party. 

Plus, there's no way you could refuse the host of the party, so give ${riv_hug} a small nod. "Sure."

${lex_name}'s gaze lingers on you for a moment longer than usual, a flicker of something shifting in ${lex_his} eyes before ${lex_she} turns to ${riv_hug}, saying, "We'll both hel—"

"Great," ${riv_mil} interrupts ${lex_him} with a cheerful grin, grabbing ${lex_name}'s wrist and pulling ${lex_him} toward the party. "Do join us later!"

${riv_hug} rolls ${riv_his} eyes, ${riv_his} hand brushing lightly against your back before ${riv_she} guides you away from the bustling crowd. "Come."

As ${riv_she} pulls you along, your steps slow involuntarily, and you glance back toward ${lex_name}. 

Just as you do, ${lex_she} turns ${lex_his} head as well.

*page_break Your gazes lock.
There's nothing particularly unusual about the moment, yet for some reason, unspoken words hang in the air between you, filling your chest with an unexpected weight.

The noise, the music, the sea of people—everything around you seems to fade into insignificance, leaving just the two of you, as it should be, 
until the spell is broken when ${lex_name}'s figure vanishes into the crowd.

Yet, even though your eyes can't find ${lex_hrs} anymore, your heart continues to pound loudly in your temples, dulling all your senses.

[i]…What did just happen?[/i]

You hadn't even noticed the path to the kitchen, but then ${riv_hug}'s voice cuts through your thoughts. "Sorry for dragging you in."

"It's fine," you reply, trying to shake off the strange moment as you glance around the kitchen.

The space looks just as luxurious as what you saw outside and in the lobby. Despite its size, the kitchen island is cluttered with dishes, glasses, bottles,
and a variety of drinks—even kids' champagne.

*page_break The corner of your lips twitch upward.
"Judging by what I see, you definitely need help," you say, eyeing everything for a moment longer before walking over to where ${riv_hug} stands by the kitchen island.

"Just with the trays of glasses filled with the expensive booze and the large cake that's about to be delivered," ${riv_she} replies, 
opening one of the bottles and beginning to fill the glasses on the trays.

"Cake?" you ask, watching ${riv_his} movements. "@{hate_party I didn't know cakes were ever a part of such parties|I don't remember cake ever being a part of our parties}. Whose idea was that?"

"Mine," ${riv_hug} says, not missing a beat. "I enjoy pairing sweets with my alcohol. Besides, the occasion totally justifies it."

As the bottle nears empty, instead of finishing it, ${riv_she} grabs two glasses from the tray and fills one for ${riv_him}self.

$!{riv_she} pauses before filling the second, ${riv_his} eyes meeting yours with an unspoken question.

You rise an eyebrow. "Seriously? I thought you asked for help because I'm sober."

${riv_hug} chuckles. "It's not like you get tipsy after one sip. So…?"

*fake_choice
	#You roll your eyes and grab the bottle. You deserve to loosen up tonight.
		*set drink 1
		You roll your eyes and grab the bottle, taking a long drink straight from it.

		You deserve to loosen up tonight.
		
		"Wow, slow down, ${surname}!" ${riv_hug} says, ${riv_his} tone more teasing than concerned. "I still need your help, remember?"
		
		"It's not like I'll get tipsy after one sip," you retort, echoing ${riv_his} words, and take another gulp, 
		finishing the bottle with a small sigh as the burn of the alcohol lingers in your chest.
		
		${riv_hug} lets out a sigh of amusement, sliding a plate of appetizers toward you. "I'm just kidding. But seriously, thank you for agreeing to help. I… 
	#You nod, accepting the glass. You plan to drink tonight, but at a moderate pace.
		*set drink 2
		You give ${riv_hug} a small nod, and ${riv_she} fills the glass, handing it to you.

		As you accept it, ${riv_hug} grins, raises ${riv_his} own glass, and gives yours a gentle clink before both of you drink in one swift motion.
		
		"This one is good," you say, feeling the burn of the alcohol linger in your chest.
		
		${riv_hug} fills your glasses again, then slides a plate of appetizers toward you.
		
		"I know. It's my favorite," ${riv_she} replies, lowering ${riv_his} gaze to the drink, hesitating before meeting your eyes again. "Seriously, ${mcname_l}. 
		Thank you for agreeing to help. I… 
	#"No thanks," you say, shaking your head. "Someone has to stay sober tonight."
		*set drink 3
		You shake your head. "Thank you, but no. Someone has to stay sober tonight."

		"An honorable sacrifice," ${riv_hug} concludes seriously, before reaching for the kids' champagne, filling your glass, and handing it to you.
		
		As you accept it, ${riv_hug} grins, raises ${riv_his} own glass, and gives yours a gentle clink. $!{riv_she} downs it in one gulp while you take a few measured sips, savoring the drink.
		
		"This one's my favorite, so let me know if you change your mind," ${riv_hug} says, refilling ${riv_his} drink. $!{riv_she} stares at it for a moment longer before meeting your eyes again. 
		"Seriously, ${mcname_l}. Thank you for agreeing to help. I… 
	#"I don't drink, you know," you say, reaching for the kids' champagne.
		*set drink 4
		You shake your head. "I don't drink, you know," you say, reaching for the kids' champagne before handing it to ${riv_him}.

		"@{hate_party Well, I'd remember if you showed up at parties more often|Sorry, I completely forgot about that}," ${riv_hug} says, 
		taking the bottle and filling your glass before handing it back to you.

		As you accept it, ${riv_hug} grins, raises ${riv_his} own glass, and gives yours a gentle clink. $!{riv_she} downs it in one gulp while you take a few measured sips, savoring the drink.

		"I know I already said that, but seriously, thank you for agreeing to help," ${riv_hug} says, refilling ${riv_his} drink. 
		$!{riv_she} stares at it for a moment longer before meeting your gaze again. "I… 
really appreciate it."

There's a subtle shift in ${riv_his} tone and smile that makes you pause. The way ${riv_she}'s looking at you now strangely reminds you of—

[i]Why am I thinking about ${lex_him} now? Why does this feel so weird?[/i]

Thankfully, before you can dive deeper into your thoughts, ${riv_hug}'s phone rings, stealing your chance to respond.

"Oh, the cake's arrived." ${riv_hug} finishes ${riv_his} glass before standing up, accepting the call and gesturing for you to follow.

*page_break …
[b]Back to the noisy atmosphere of the party…[/b]

Helping ${riv_hug} wasn't as difficult as getting ${riv_him} to stop thanking you for the favor. 

Once everything was done, ${riv_she} only left after promising to catch up later, disappearing into the chaos of the party and leaving you to yourself.

The room is so crowded that some people didn't't even notice the giant cake that's just been brought in. The noise, the laughter, the music—it all seems to swallow 
everything up as you move past familiar faces, scanning the crowd.

You manage to spot ${lex_name} a few moments later, already surrounded by a bunch of people—which doesn't really surprise you.

What never fails to surprise you, though, is that as soon as your gaze lands on ${lex_him}, ${lex_she} glances at your direction as well, as if ${lex_she} can always sense your attention.

*page_break As if ${lex_she} can always sense you.
You smile, but before you can move toward ${lex_him}, 
*if (mc_friendly = true)
	a few of your former classmates appear out of nowhere, clearly heading in your direction.

	"Hey ${mcname_l}! Holy shit, you look fantastic!" one of them exclaims, pulling out their camera.

	"Thanks. You both look gorgeous, too," you reply as each of them pull you into a quick hug.

	"We definitely have to take a picture together!" the others insist, urging you to stand in the middle. @{hate_party "Otherwise, no one will actually believe that you went to the party!"|}

	You don't resist, glancing back to where you saw ${lex_name}. A few more people pull ${lex_him} away, chatting excitedly as they lead ${lex_him} toward a different part of the room.

	You sigh, watching the crowd swallow ${lex_him} up once again, before turning back to your classmates.

	*page_break The night certainly promises to be busy.
	*goto party_later
*if (mc_friendly = false)
	a few more people pull ${lex_him} away, chatting excitedly as they lead ${lex_him} to a different part of the room.

	${lex_name} looks a little hesitant, trying to find your gaze again, but you move out of ${lex_his} sight before ${lex_she} can make eye contact.

	Unlike ${lex_name}, you don't easily connect with those around you, so being surrounded by so many people isn't as comfortable for you as it is for ${lex_him}.

	Plus, after today's events, you want ${lex_name} to just enjoy the party and have fun—without having to be considerate of you.
	
	After a little searching for a quieter spot, you eventually find a more or less secluded corner and settle onto one of the farthest couches. 
	
	A few former classmates, who seem to share your need for space, greet you warmly and hand you @{drink a|a|a non-alcoholic|a non-alcoholic} drink.

	You accept it with a small smile, quietly listening to their chatter until one of them pulls you into the conversation.

	*page_break The night certainly promises to be busy.
	*goto party_later
*goto party_later

*comment ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*label party_later
[b]A couple hours later…[/b]

*if (mc_party = 1)
	The energy pulses around you, blending with the beat of music that vibrates through your chest, while the scents of food, alcohol, and excitement swirl in the air, 
	making everything feel alive.

	You can't help but smile. You love it here. [i]It's so nice to see everyone having fun…[/i]
	
	"@{mc_party Having fun|Are you okay|Having fun}?" 
*if (mc_party = 2)
	The noise swells around you, a blend of voices and laughter creating a suffocating cacophony that mingles with the scents of food, alcohol, and bodies, 
	filling the air with a heaviness that feels disorienting in the dim, flickering light.

	You truly loathe it here. [i]Maybe I should leave early…[/i]

	"@{mc_party Having fun|Are you okay|Having fun}?" 
*if (mc_party = 3)
	The noise hums around you, blending a chatter and laughter with the pulse of music, the scent of food, drinks and excitement.

	It feels strange to realize that this is probably the last time all of you will gather like this, but that's not the only reason it feels bittersweet. [i]I wonder—[/i]

	"@{mc_party Having fun|Are you okay|Having fun}?" 
${riv_hug} asks, leaning in close to be heard over the music. A few other classmates you've been chatting with hover nearby, 
their faces a blur.

"@{mc_party I do,|Yeah…|You can say that,}" you reply absentmindedly, not caring if ${riv_she} hears you. Your gaze drifts through the crowd, searching for ${lex_name}, 
as if the mere sight of ${lex_him} @{mc_party is all you need to complete the picture|could somehow soothe your uneasiness|could make everything feel even better}.

It takes you a few seconds to finally spot the familiar shimmer of ${lex_his} copper hair—the @{L_gen styled|straightened} strands already returned to their wavy form. 

But @{mc_party the pleasant atmosphere around you|the relief you felt|the relief you felt} vanishes when you see ${lex_name} surrounded by a throng of people… including ${riv_mil}.

A cold, venomous feeling spreads through your veins as you watch ${mil_him} lean in closer, 
*if (L_gen = 1)
	sliding ${mil_his} hand down ${lex_name}'s ${lex_top}, playing with the same upper buttons you fastened earlier 
*if (L_gen = 2)
	${mil_his} hand sliding down ${lex_name}'s back and playing with the lacing of the dress you helped ${lex_him} fasten 
this evening.

You shift your gaze back to ${lex_name}, and the soft smile ${lex_she} gives in response to ${riv_mil}'s advances twists the tight knot of emotions in your chest, 
clouding your thoughts until a gentle touch on your upper arm pulls your attention back to ${riv_hug}.

"Let's dance," ${riv_she} whispers in your ear, leaning back just enough to meet your eyes. $!{riv_his} hand reaches for yours, brushing against your fingertips with a soft, inviting touch.

*fake_choice
	#@{icon ❤️ |}"Maybe later," you reply, already heading over to ${lex_name} to stop whatever this is.
		*set mc_bold true
		*goto dance_bold
	#@{icon 💙 |}You force yourself to nod, allowing ${riv_him} to lead you onto the dance floor.
		*set mc_bold false
		*goto dance_shy
	#"I need another drink first. Find me later, okay?" you say, walking towards the drinks.
		*goto need_a_drink
	#"I'm sorry, I need some fresh air," you say, quickly turning away to leave.
		*goto fresh_air
*finish

*comment ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*label dance_bold
"Maybe later," you mumble, not caring whether ${riv_hug} hears your response as your body instinctively moves toward ${lex_name}, determined to stop whatever is happening.

The crowd sways with the music as you push through the bodies, your eyes fixed on ${lex_name} and the way ${riv_mil} takes ${lex_his} hand, leaning in to whisper something in ${lex_his} ear.

A rush of blood pounding in your temples drowns out all the sounds, your heart seething with suffocating heaviness as you watch ${riv_mil} pull away only to lead ${lex_name} off the dance floor, 
away from the tight circle of people surrounding them.

Away from you.

But before that can happen—before ${lex_name} disappears into the crowd—you reach out, wrapping your arms around ${lex_his} waist from behind, pulling ${lex_him} against you.

${lex_name} exhales shakily, turning ${lex_his} head slightly, 
*if (L_tall <= 3)
	trying to meet your gaze. "$!{mcname_l#1}-${mcname_l}?"

	"Do you mind?" you ask, not addressing ${lex_him}. Your eyes fixed solely on ${riv_mil} as you rest your chin on ${lex_name}'s shoulder. 
*if (L_tall >= 4)
	trying to meet your gaze as you peek out from one of ${lex_his} sides. "$!{mcname_l#1}-${mcname_l}?"

	"Do you mind?" you ask, not addressing ${lex_him}. Your eyes fixed solely on ${riv_mil}, your grip tightens.
"I want to dance with my [i]friend[/i]."

${riv_mil} watches you with a piercing intensity, the sharpness of ${mil_his} gaze nearly tangible, but all you can think about is the heat of ${lex_name}'s body pressed against yours.

"Why would I mind?" ${riv_mil} asks, ${mil_his} smile shifting to something sharp as ${mil_his} eyes flicker briefly to ${lex_name} before returning to yours. 
"Be a good [i]friend[/i] and warm ${lex_him} up for me, will you?"

Your jaw tightens at ${mil_his} words, and before ${lex_name} can respond, you pull away and take ${lex_name}'s hand, gripping it firmly as you drag ${lex_him} away.

*page_break
Moving through the crowd, you feel the pace of the movement slow around you as the music shifts to a subdued tempo, perfect for a close, intimate dance.

You stop pulling ${lex_name} after just a few steps and turn to face ${lex_him}, your grip tightening as you yank ${lex_him} toward you with a sudden, almost harsh motion. 
The force presses your bodies together, causing ${lex_his} palms to instinctively land on your @{MC_gen chest|shoulders|shoulders}.

"Sorry," you say, feeling anything but that, your gaze steady with a calmness born of something dark within you—a desire to keep ${lex_him} right here, just like this.

In sync with that thought, your arms curl around ${lex_his} 
*if (MC_gen = 1)
	waist—almost possessively—refusing 
*if (MC_gen != 1)
	@{L_gen neck|waist}—almost possessively—refusing 
to let go.

${lex_name} watches you back through the lowered lashes, slowly circling ${lex_his} arms around your 
*if (MC_gen = 1)
	neck, 
*if (MC_gen != 1)
	@{L_gen waist|neck}, 
pulling you even closer.

"…You are not," ${lex_she} murmurs, ${lex_his} eyes glassy and drunk, yet strangely focused on yours.

The way ${lex_she} speaks, looks at you, touches you… It's obvious to you that ${lex_name} is very @{drink drunk… and so are you|drunk. And you're feeling a little tipsy as well|drunk|drunk}.

Although the music is slow, you're not really dancing—simply moving, not even in time with the rhythm of the song. 

It matters so little, though, when your hearts beat to the same pulse, synchronized in a way that feels far more intimate than any dance could ever be.

*page_break It feels so right…
The crowd around you fades into insignificance, and for a moment, it's just the two of you, your body pressed against ${lex_hrs} with no space left between you.

"Did you have fun?" you ask after a beat, your voice low as your fingers press more firmly into ${lex_him}, guiding ${lex_his} movements.

"I did. I…" ${lex_name}'s expression darkens, and ${lex_she} licks ${lex_his} lips—a distracting gesture—before averting ${lex_his} gaze. "Actually, no. I didn't."

You watch ${lex_him} intently. "Why? You seemed happy, especially with ${riv_mil} around you," you say, 
@{L_gen pressing one of your hand to ${lex_his} chest|your hand slipping under the laces on ${lex_his} back}, hinting to the moment you had witnessed earlier.

Your words—or your touch—make ${lex_him} bite ${lex_his} lower lip, and the sigh that escapes ${lex_him} burns your lips with a warmth that mirrors the heat of ${lex_his} 
@{L_gen body beneath the fabric of ${lex_his} shirt|skin against your palm}, causing a shiver run down your spine.

"Maybe because I wanted it to be you," ${lex_name} replies, ${lex_his} voice cracking at the end before ${lex_she} closes ${lex_his} eyes wearily. "But you were clearly… busy."

$!{lex_his} words make your chest tighten, and you don't even realize that both of you have stopped moving.

*page_break Until now.
"${lex_name}…" You call ${lex_his} name, urging ${lex_him} to open ${lex_his} eyes, which are now heavy with longing, filled with something intense and unspoken—something charged, almost painful.

Slowly, you reach for ${lex_his} cheek, but when your fingers are nearly grazing ${lex_his} skin, ${lex_name} exhales sharply.

"Don't. I don't need your pity." Your hand freezes at ${lex_his} breathless tone, and ${lex_she} uses this moment to free ${lex_him}self from your grip, ${lex_his} expression turning regretful. 
"I didn't—I'm sorry, I just—"

*goto dance_merged

*comment ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*label dance_shy
You force yourself to nod, allowing ${riv_hug} to lead you onto the dance floor, desperately trying to shake the image from both your heart and mind.

But it's no use. The shared smiles, the touches, the proximity… [i]No. We're just friends. We—[/i]

"Chop chop, ${surname}," ${riv_hug} teases, ${riv_his} voice cutting through the spiral of your thoughts. $!{riv_she} turns to face you, leans in closer, and whispers, "Show me you can move."

Pulling back just enough to see your expression, ${riv_she} positions your 
*if (MC_gen != 1)
	palm on ${riv_his} shoulder, 
*if (MC_gen = 1)
	@{L_gen palm on ${riv_his} shoulder|hands on ${riv_his} waist}, 
letting go only when you tighten your grip to steady yourself against the closeness.

With one hand still holding yours, ${riv_his} free hand slides to your 
*if (MC_gen != 1)
	waist, 
*if (MC_gen = 1)
	@{L_gen waist|shoulder}, 
guiding your movements to follow ${riv_his} lead.

As you move, the relentless beat of the music builds, drowning everything and everyone around you, leaving only the pulse of the rhythm and the thrum of ${riv_hug}'s heart 
@{L_gen against your palm that slips down ${riv_his} chest as your grip weakens with growing|beating so close to yours yet out of sync, growing a certain} realization…

*page_break You wish it was ${lex_name}.
The thought sears through your chest, pulsing into your temples, heavy and suffocating.

With each passing second, your body feels both weighted and weightless. The music grows into a jarring white noise that drowns out the rhythm, 
while the flashing lights above blur your vision until everything fades into a haze.

You feel ${riv_hug}'s body pressing against yours, closer and closer, until there's no space left between you, but all your mind can focus on is ${lex_name}…

${lex_name}, smiling softly at the other ${mil_man}'s touch, painting a picture of ${lex_him} dancing with someone the way you dance with ${riv_hug}.

[i]Is this what it's going to feel like?[/i]

You push against the body before you, desperate to hold on to the sensation, but the hands roaming over your body only leave a trail of numbness, until everything fades into emptiness.

Nothing can hurt or matter anymore… except the familiar warmth that shatters the numbing chaos, pulling you both mentally and physically, reigniting all your senses.

*page_break A power that only ${lex_name} has over you.
You blink, your mind still foggy as you register ${lex_name}'s hands on your waist, pulling you away from 
*if (L_tall <= 2)
	${riv_hug}.

	"Do you mind?" ${lex_name} asks, peeking out from one of your sides, the heat of ${lex_his} body pressed against your back both empowering and weakening you at the same time.

	You cast your gaze downward in ${lex_his} direction, 
*if (L_tall >= 3)
	${riv_hug}, the heat of ${lex_his} body pressed against your back both empowering and weakening you at the same time.

	"Do you mind?" ${lex_name} asks, resting ${lex_his} chin onto your shoulder, ${lex_his} breath against your ear sending a shiver down your spine. 

	You turn your head slightly, 
attempting to look at ${lex_him}, but ${lex_name}'s gaze remains fixed solely on ${riv_hug} as ${lex_she} continues, "I want to dance with my [i]friend[/i]."

${riv_hug} steps back with a smile, raising ${riv_his} hands in mock surrender. "I can't blame you," ${riv_she} says, ${riv_his} eyes shifting to you before ${riv_she} winks. 
"Find me later, ${mcname_l}."

You don't have a chance to respond as ${lex_name} takes your hand, pulling you away with a force that leaves no room for protest.

Moving through the crowd, you feel the pace of the movement slow around you as the music shifts to a subdued tempo, perfect for a close, intimate dance.

*page_break
${lex_name} stops pulling you after just a few steps and turns to face you, ${lex_his} grip tightening as ${lex_she} yanks you toward ${lex_him} with a sudden, almost harsh motion, 
pressing your bodies together.

"Having fun?" ${lex_she} asks, ${lex_his} tone dark and unreadable as ${lex_his} arms curl around your 
*if (MC_gen != 1)
	waist—a touch 
*if (MC_gen = 1)
	@{L_gen waist|shoulders}—a touch 
that feels almost possessive, showing no intention of letting go.

The way ${lex_she} speaks, looks at you, touches you… It's obvious to you that ${lex_name} is very @{drink drunk… and so are you|drunk. You're feeling a little tipsy as well|drunk|drunk}.

"Are you?" you answer ${lex_his} question with your own, your hands instinctively circling around ${lex_his} 
*if (MC_gen != 1)
	neck, 
*if (MC_gen = 1)
	@{L_gen neck|waist}, 
your eyes never leaving ${lex_hrs}.

Although the music is slow, you're not really dancing—simply moving, not even in time with the rhythm of the song. 

It matters so little, though, when your hearts beat to the same pulse, synchronized in a way that feels far more intimate than any dance could ever be.

*page_break And it feels so… right.
"I did have fun…" ${lex_name} finally replies, ${lex_his} eyes glassy and drunk, yet strangely focused on yours. "Until I saw you dancing with ${riv_hug}."

$!{lex_his} words make your heart sink, and an overwhelming urge to flee washes over you. But before you can move, ${lex_name} leans in closer.

"Why can't it be me?" $!{lex_his} voice is soft, almost fragile, as ${lex_she} shuts ${lex_his} eyes and presses ${lex_his} forehead against yours. "Why can't I just make everything right?"

Your throat tightens. "${lex_name}…"

Both of you stop moving. When ${lex_she} opens ${lex_his} eyes, they're heavy with longing, filled with something intense and unspoken—something charged, almost painful.

$!{lex_she} reaches for your cheek, ${lex_his} fingers trembling, but at the last moment, ${lex_she} pulls away. "I'm sorry, ${mcname_l}…"

*label dance_merged
The words cut through the fragile moment, and ${lex_name} steps back completely, leaving a hollow emptiness where ${lex_his} warmth once lingered.

"${lex_name}, wait…!" You try to stop ${lex_him}, but ${lex_she} steps back from you before turning away, instantly colliding with someone who happens to walk behind ${lex_him}.

The sound of glass shattering rings in your ears, drawing attention from the nearby crowd.

*page_break The weight of their gazes makes your skin prickle.
"Shit! Watch where you're stepping!" the person ${lex_name} accidentally bumps into hisses, their voice sharp with irritation.

Ignoring their anger, you use the opportunity to close the distance between you and stop ${lex_name} from leaving.

However, just as you reach out and grab ${lex_his} wrist, a large damp stain on ${lex_his} @{L_gen shirt|dress}—left from the unexpected collision—makes you pause.

You press your lips together, and before ${lex_name} can take another step to walk away, you pull ${lex_him} toward the kitchen, away from the noise and prying eyes of the crowd.

${lex_name} doesn't resist, silently following you.

Once you reach your destination, you guide ${lex_him} to the nearest chair and gently set ${lex_him} down, then move past ${lex_him} toward the cabinets, 
searching for something—anything—that could help minimize the damage.

A quiet sigh of relief escapes you when you find a roll of paper towels. You return to where ${lex_name} is sitting, silent and unmoving.

"Hey…" you begin, carefully reaching out to ${lex_his} shoulder to help ${lex_him} sit up straighter for better access to the stain. "Are you alright?"

"Sorry," ${lex_name} mumbles again, barely audible, leaning in slightly closer.

*goto L_sorry

*comment ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*label need_a_drink
"I need another drink first. Find me later, okay?" you say, not caring whether ${riv_hug} hears you.

Desperately trying to shake the image from both your heart and mind, you take a few steps toward the improvised bar, 
but the sight of a crowd of your former classmates taking shots and happily shouting over one another makes you almost groan in frustration.

[i]Oh, hell with it.[/i] Turning on your heels, you head toward the kitchen where you helped ${riv_hug} with the drinks when you first arrived.

It appears empty, but you barely register it as you slip past the countertops, moving toward the kitchen island cluttered with glasses and bottles of alcohol, 
before finally reclaiming the seat you had taken earlier.

As soon as you do, you close your eyes and let out a heavy sigh, dropping your head into the crook of your elbows. Your head throbs with the sound of the heavy, 
lively atmosphere just behind you, a noise that feels so… tiresome.

For more reasons than one.

You don't want to think about it, but you can't stop yourself. Your mind poisons you from within, even as you struggle to grasp a coherent thought. 
@{mc_drunk Alcohol makes your head heavy while the|The} image flashes in your memory, refusing to fade. 

${lex_name}, ${lex_his} happy smile, someone touching ${lex_him} in a way you'll never be able to, and the pain in your chest that grips you so heavily because 
of how unfair it is—and how unfair you are.

*if (drink != 4)
	*fake_choice
		#You reach for the bottle, spilling some of its contents as you fill the glass.
			*goto drink
		#Tears burn your eyes, threatening to spill as you reach for the bottle.
			*set tears true
			*label drink
			*if (drink = 1) or (drink = 2)
				*if (drink = 1)
					@{tears Tears burn at the corners of your eyes, threatening to spill over|Your hand feels heavy} as you reach for one of the bottles and begin to fill your glass, 
					spilling some over the rim and onto the countertop.

					You don't pay any attention to it, stopping only when the contents spill over the edges, setting the bottle down with more force than you intended. 
					The muffled sound of it clinking against the counter echoes in your ears.
					
					Still gripping the bottle, 
				*if (drink = 2)
					@{tears Tears burn at the corners of your eyes, threatening to spill over|Your hand feels a bit unsteady} as you reach for one of the bottles and begin to fill your glass, 
					careful not to spill any drop. 
				
					You stop when the glass is full, setting the bottle down with more force than you intended. The sound of it clinking against the counter echoes in your ears unpleasantly, 
					fueling the inner frustration that's swelling inside.

					Still gripping the bottle, 
				you stare at the glass blankly, its edges wet, the fluid around it reflecting the light from the ceiling lamps. [i]@{drink Pretty|So bright}…[/i]

				@{tears Biting your lower lip hard in a desperate attempt to calm down|Sitting like this for a moment longer}, you lift the bottle again, 
				bringing it to your lips and taking a deep swig, enjoying the way the bitterness of the alcohol sears your throat.

			*if (drink = 3)
				@{tears Tears burn at the corners of your eyes, threatening to spill over as|After a moment of hesitation,} you reach for one of the bottles and begin to fill your glass.

				You stop when the glass is full, setting the bottle down gently, the quiet sound of it clinking against the counter echoes in your ears unpleasantly, 
				fueling the inner frustration that's swelling inside.

				@{tears Biting your lower lip hard in a desperate attempt to calm down|Slowly}, you lift the glass, watching as the liquid catching the light, 
				reflecting the glow of the ceiling lamps. 
				
				You take a deep breath and down your drink in one swift motion, the sharp bitterness of the alcohol burning as it slides down your throat. 
			Just what you needed…
			
			"Hey," ${riv_hug}'s voice cuts through the haze, but you don't turn to ${riv_him}, taking a few more sips.
			
			As you set the @{drink bottle|bottle|glass} on the counter, you notice ${riv_hug} moving closer, stopping right beside you.
			
			"@{drink Maybe you've had enough?|Decided not to pace yourself anymore?|I thought you weren't going to drink tonight,}" ${riv_she} @{drink asks|asks|says} gently, 
			*if (drink != 3)
				${riv_his} eyes taking in the mess 
			*if (drink = 3)
				eyeing your empty glass 
			before meeting your gaze as ${riv_she} holds out ${riv_his} hand.
			
			"@{drink Maybe|You sound like you've been watching me|I thought so too}," you reply flatly, staring down at ${riv_his} hand for a moment longer before handing ${riv_him} the bottle.
			
			${riv_hug} looks at you intently, 
			*goto kitchen_merged
		#You almost reach for the bottle, but then decide against it. [i]It won't help.[/i]
			@{drink Your hand feels heavy as|Your hand feels a bit unsteady|After a moment of hesitation,} you slowly reach for one of the bottles before you let it drop to your side, 
			deciding against it.

			@{drink You're already pretty drunk|You're already feeling tipsy|In spite of everything, you weren't going to drink tonight}, 
			and trying to drown everything in alcohol will only make things worse. 
				
			Because deep down, you know that no matter how hard you try, this isn't something you can escape in a bottle.

			*goto no_drink
		#The smell of alcohol, food, and the noise of the music… it all makes you sick.
			You can feel the tightness in your chest, the weight of everything pressing down on you: the clashing scents of drinks; the heavy scent of food lingering in the air; 
			the laughter and chatter from outside the kitchen grow louder, sharp against the hum in your ears. 
			
			It's suffocating. It makes you sick.

			*goto no_drink
*if (drink = 4)
	*fake_choice
		#Tears burn your eyes, threatening to spill. [i]Fuck this party. Fuck everything.[/i]
			*set tears true
			You feel tears burn at the corners of your eyes, threatening to spill over, biting your lower lip hard in a desperate attempt to calm down.

			But it's no use. The memories flood back—${lex_name}, smiling in that way only ${lex_she} does, laughing, looking so… happy. And you? You're sitting here, alone, 
			hiding away in the corner like a coward, unable to shake the gnawing ache inside.

			[i]Fuck this party. Fuck everything. Fuck—[/i]

			*goto no_drink_4
		#You take a deep breath, trying to calm down. [i]We're just friends. Everything's fine.[/i]
			You close your eyes and take a deep breath, trying to block it all out. [i]We're just friends. Everything is fine. Everything is…[/i]
			
			But it's no use. The memories flood back—${lex_name}, smiling in that way only ${lex_she} does, laughing, looking so… happy. And you? You're sitting here, alone, 
			hiding away in the corner like a coward, unable to shake the gnawing ache inside, unable to—

			*goto no_drink_4
*finish

*label no_drink
You close your eyes, trying to block it all out, but it's no use. 

The memories flood back—${lex_name}, smiling in that way only ${lex_she} does, laughing, looking so… happy. And you? You're sitting here, alone, hiding away in the corner like a coward, 
unable to shake the gnawing ache inside, unable to—

*label no_drink_4
"Hey," ${riv_hug}'s voice cuts through the haze, filling you with a wave of disappointment because part of you had hoped it would be ${lex_name} who found you here. [i]So foolish…[/i]

"…Hey," you mumble tiredly, @{tears making an effort to keep the tone steady|your voice heavy with exhaustion}. 

After a moment, you feel ${riv_him} draw near and stop just beside you, and you take a deep breath before turning to face ${riv_him}.

"Are you alright?" ${riv_she} asks, leaning against the counter and reaching for the bottle beside you.

As ${riv_his} hand grazes the bottle, ${riv_his} eyes meet yours, waiting for your response. You give ${riv_him} a small nod, 
@{tears ${riv_his} the question causes a lump to form in your throat|not trying to make it convincing}.

${riv_hug} looks at you intently, 
*goto kitchen_merged

*label kitchen_merged
taking a swig before setting the bottle aside, then turns to face you. "Listen, ${mcname_l}. I don't know what's happened, but if you need to talk…"

You feel the weight of ${riv_his} words settle in your chest—not something you need right now.

*page_break Not from ${riv_him}.
You part your lips, ready to brush ${riv_him} off, but the words falter as you notice ${lex_name} appear in the doorway.

"${mcname_l}…"

$!{lex_his} voice instantly brings everything you tried to suppress to the surface, but it all vanishes as you notice a large damp stain on ${lex_his} @{L_gen shirt|dress}.

"${lex_name}?" You rise from the chair and step past ${riv_hug}, moving quickly toward your friend. "What happened?"

$!{lex_she} exhales deeply in response, ${lex_his} eyes closing wearily. Without saying a word, ${lex_his} hand reaching for your upper arm.

"Hey… " you try again, instinctively reaching out to ${lex_his} shoulder. "Are you alright?"

"Sorry," ${lex_name} mumbles barely audible, leaning closer.

You freeze, your pulse quickening as 
*if (L_tall <= 2)
	${lex_she} presses ${lex_she} forehead into your chest, nuzzling tiredly.

	Feeling 
*if (L_tall >= 3)
	${lex_his} jaw brushes against yours, then slides lower as ${lex_she} rests ${lex_his} forehead against the curve of your neck.

	Feeling 
the heat radiating from ${lex_his} body, you know exactly how drunk ${lex_she} is—and what that means.

*page_break 
"We've got rooms upstairs," ${riv_hug} cuts in, ${riv_his} voice pulling you back to reality. $!{riv_she} moves closer with a roll of paper towels in ${riv_his} hand, 
setting it aside where you can reach it.

You almost forget ${riv_she}'s there, but before you can respond, ${riv_she} adds, "If you'd like, I can help get ${lex_him} settled."

${lex_name} remains still in your arms, ${lex_his} body heavy and unresponsive, yet careful not to press too close, as if ${lex_she}'s trying to protect your outfit.

"It's alright… Could you give us a minute?" you finally say, not looking at ${riv_him} as you guide ${lex_name} to the nearest chair and gently set ${lex_him} down.

You can feel ${riv_hug}'s gaze on you as you take the towels, and after a moment, ${riv_she} says, "I'll be near the table. Call me if you need anything."

"Thank you," you reply, glancing back over your shoulder to offer ${riv_him} a small nod before turning your attention back to ${lex_name}, tearing a few paper towels off the roll.

For a moment, ${lex_his} gaze lingers just past you, shifting to meet yours only when you no longer feel ${riv_hug}'s eyes on your back.

"I'm sorry…" ${lex_she} mumbles again, ${lex_his} eyes glassy and drunk, yet strangely focused on yours.

*label L_sorry
*fake_choice
	#You know ${lex_she}'s drunk. Still, you can't help but ask, "What are you sorry for?"
		You can clearly tell that ${lex_name} has had too much to drink.

		Still, something in ${lex_his} tone catches you off guard, and you can't help but ask, "What are you sorry for?"
		
		${lex_name} doesn't respond—doesn't move, causing you to sigh wearily and focus your gaze on ${lex_his} @{L_gen shirt|dress}.
		
		You begin to gently blot the stain, moving your hand lower until ${lex_name} catches your wrist, the sudden touch compels your gaze to meet ${lex_hrs}.
		
		"I'm sorry… for being a bad friend," ${lex_she} says so resignedly that it makes your heart clench in your chest.
		
		As your gazes remain locked, the air between you shifts. You can almost taste ${lex_name}'s breath, laced with alcohol, on your lips, making you realize just how close your faces are now.
		
		And how much you want it—for this distance to not exist.
		
		"You're not…" you murmur, unsure if ${lex_she} can actually hear you. [i]It's me…[/i]

		*page_break [i]Thinking about something I shouldn't.[/i]
		As if sensing your thoughts, ${lex_name}'s expression softens. 
		
		$!{lex_she} releases your wrist only to reach out to touch your cheekbone, brushing it with such tenderness that it takes your breath away.

		"${lex_name}—"
		
		"I want to leave," ${lex_she} whispers almost desperately, ${lex_his} gaze falling to your lips before ${lex_she} presses ${lex_him}self into your shoulder. "Please… Let's leave."
		
		Your heart beats frantically against your ribcage from the heat of ${lex_his} body and the worry. "Of course. Let me call a cab."
		
		Slowly, you break free from ${lex_his} grip, taking ${lex_his} hand and leading ${lex_him} to your belongings.

		*page_break It's time to return to ${lex_name}'s apartment.
	#Knowing it's the alcohol speaking in ${lex_him}, you silently begin to blot the stain.
		You suppress a sigh, knowing it's the alcohol speaking as you begin to gently blot the stain. [i]I hope the cab won't refuse to drive us back because of this…[/i]

		"$!{riv_she} is so… annoying," ${lex_name} mumbles again, causing you to pause. 
		
		[i]Is ${lex_she} talking about ${riv_hug}?[/i]

		"You had a little too much to drink, didn't you?" you ask instead, moving your hand lower until ${lex_name} catches your wrist, the sudden touch compels your gaze to meet ${lex_hrs}.
		
		"I wish that were the case," ${lex_she} says so resignedly that your heart clenches painfully in your chest.
		
		As your gazes remain locked, the air between you shifts. ${lex_name}'s breath, laced with alcohol, caresses your lips, making you realize just how close your faces are now.
		
		And how much you want it—for this distance to not exist.
		
		"Let's go home," you force yourself to say, the croaking tone of your voice betraying thoughts you shouldn't be having.
		
		For a moment, ${lex_name} stares at you silently, ${lex_his} gaze so intense that it makes you fear that ${lex_she} can actually read your thoughts. But then, 
		after what feels like an eternity, ${lex_she} closes ${lex_his} eyes and gives you a small nod.

		You release a breath you didn't realize you were holding. Taking ${lex_his} hand and helping ${lex_him} to stand up, you carefully lead ${lex_him} toward your belongings.

		*page_break It's time to return to ${lex_name}'s apartment.
*goto L_apartment

*comment ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*label fresh_air
"I'm sorry, I need some fresh air," you say, not caring whether ${riv_hug} hears you. Desperately trying to shake the image from both your heart and mind, 
you quickly turn away to leave.

You don't remember how you got to the veranda or how long you stood there, but eventually, the cool summer breeze begins to calm your senses, 
filling your ears with the distant yet consistent hum of music drifting from inside the estate.

Leaning against the railing and taking a deep breath, you ignore the stares of a nearby group of smokers. Soon, they head back inside, leaving you standing alone.

At last, but not for long.

You grip the railing tighter as a wave of bitterness spreads from your chest, making your head spin. The heavy, lively atmosphere just behind you feels… tiresome.

For more reasons than one.

You don't want to think about it, but you can't stop yourself. Your mind poisons you from within, even as you struggle to grasp a coherent thought. 
@{mc_drunk Alcohol makes your head heavy while the|The} image flashes in your memory, refusing to fade, and ${lex_name}—

"${mcname_l}…"

*page_break You quickly turn around.
${lex_name} stands before you, ${lex_his} eyes glassy and drunk, yet strangely focused on yours.

Your hand finds the railing behind you, gripping it tighter than necessary as you ask, "Having fun?"

The flashing lights from the party behind ${lex_him} make you squint, but as your eyes adjust to the darkness, you notice a large damp stain on ${lex_his} @{L_gen shirt|dress}, 
and the bitterness you felt just moments ago vanishes.

"What happened?" you ask, your voice laced with concern, taking a step closer.

$!{lex_she} exhales deeply in response, ${lex_his} eyes closing wearily. Without saying a word, ${lex_his} hand reaching for your upper arm.

"${lex_name}?" you try again, instinctively reaching out to ${lex_his} shoulder. "Hey… are you alright?"

"Sorry," ${lex_she} mumbles barely audible, leaning closer.

You freeze, your pulse quickening as 
*if (L_tall <= 2)
	${lex_she} presses ${lex_she} forehead into your chest, nuzzling tiredly.

	Feeling 
*if (L_tall >= 3)
	${lex_his} jaw brushes against yours, then slides lower as ${lex_she} rests ${lex_his} forehead against the curve of your neck.

	Feeling 
the heat radiating from ${lex_his} body, you know exactly how drunk ${lex_she} is—and what that means.

*fake_choice
	#Despite that, you can't help but ask, "What are you sorry for?"
		You can clearly tell that ${lex_name} has had too much to drink.

		Still, something in ${lex_his} tone catches you off guard, and you can't help but ask, "What are you sorry for?"
		
		${lex_name} doesn't respond—${lex_she} doesn't move, causing you to sigh wearily. But, just as you're about to dismiss it and suggest it's time to head home, 
		${lex_she} pulls away just enough to look into your eyes.
		
		"For being a bad friend," ${lex_she} says so resignedly that it makes your heart clench in your chest.
		
		As your gazes remain locked, the air between you shifts. 
		*if (L_tall <= 2)
			You can almost taste ${lex_name}'s breath, laced with alcohol, on your lips, 
		*if (L_tall >= 3)
			${lex_name}'s breath, laced with alcohol, caresses your lips, 
		making you realize just how close your faces are now.
		
		And how much you want it—for this distance to not exist.
		
		"You're not…" you murmur, unsure if ${lex_she} can actually hear you. [i]It's me…[/i]

		*page_break [i]Thinking about something I shouldn't.[/i]
		As if sensing your thoughts, ${lex_name}'s expression softens. $!{lex_she} reaches out to touch your cheekbone, brushing it with such tenderness that it takes your breath away.

		"${lex_name}—"
		
		"I want to leave," ${lex_she} whispers almost desperately, ${lex_his} gaze falling to your lips before ${lex_she} presses ${lex_him}self into your 
		@{L_tall chest|chest|shoulder|shoulder|shoulder} again, careful to maintain the distance so the wet spot on ${lex_his} @{L_gen shirt|dress} doesn't ruin your outfit. "Please… Let's leave."
		
		Your heart beats frantically in your chest from the heat of ${lex_his} body and the worry. "Of course. Let me call a cab."
		
		Slowly, you break free from ${lex_his} grip, taking ${lex_his} hand and leading ${lex_him} to your belongings.

		*page_break It's time to return to ${lex_name}'s apartment.
	#"You had a little too much to drink, didn't you?" you ask gently.
		"You had a little too much to drink, didn't you?" you ask, gently patting ${lex_his} shoulder.

		${lex_name} doesn't respond—${lex_she} doesn't move, causing you to sigh tiredly. As you're about to suggest it's time to head home, ${lex_she} pulls away just enough to look into your eyes.
		
		"I wish that were the case," ${lex_she} says so resignedly that your heart clenches painfully in your chest.
		
		As your gazes remain locked, the air between you shifts. 
		*if (L_tall <= 2)
			You can almost taste ${lex_name}'s breath, laced with alcohol, on your lips, 
		*if (L_tall >= 3)
			${lex_name}'s breath, laced with alcohol, caresses your lips, 
		making you realize just how close your faces are now.
		
		And how much you want it—for this distance to not exist.
		
		"Let's go home," you force yourself to say, the croaking tone of your voice betraying thoughts you shouldn't be having.
		
		For a moment, ${lex_name} stares at you silently, ${lex_his} gaze so intense that it makes you fear that ${lex_she} can actually read your thoughts. But then, after what feels like an eternity, 
		${lex_she} closes ${lex_his} eyes and gives you a small nod.

		You release a breath you didn't realize you were holding, breaking free of ${lex_his} grip only to take ${lex_his} hand, leading ${lex_him} toward your belongings.

		*page_break It's time to return to ${lex_name}'s apartment.
*goto L_apartment

*comment ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*label L_apartment
*set secret_note true
[b]Half an hour later, at ${lex_name}'s apartment…[/b]

The soft click of the lock echoes in the otherwise quiet landing before you push the door to ${lex_name}'s apartment open.

As soon as you step inside and flip the light switch, the familiar scent and atmosphere of ${lex_his} space wash over you, easing the tension in your body and 
letting the @{drink drunken|drunken|restrained|restrained} fatigue seep through.

${lex_name} bends down to @{L_gen kick off ${lex_his} shoes|remove ${lex_his} lace-up heels}, but ${lex_his} tipsiness, combined with the abrupt motion, 
causes ${lex_him} to stumble forward slightly, yet you catch ${lex_him} just in time.

"Easy there," you murmur tiredly, steadying ${lex_him} as ${lex_she} continues to struggle with ${lex_his} @{L_gen shoes|laces}, seemingly oblivious to the near mishap, 
before ${lex_she} turns ${lex_his} attention to you.

"I'm fine, ${mcname_l}," ${lex_she} informs you with a frown, gently cupping your face and planting a quick, almost dismissive peck on your cheek.

Heat prickling your skin where ${lex_his} lips just touched you, but ${lex_name} pulls away as though nothing happened.

It isn't the first time something like this has happened when ${lex_name} gets this drunk, reaching a certain state that entails only one thing. 

*page_break $!{lex_she} won't remember any of it tomorrow.
"I'm fine…" ${lex_name}'s detached voice cuts through your thoughts as ${lex_she} repeats those words, 
*if (L_gen = 1)
	${lex_his} hand slipping down to ${lex_his} shirt. 
	
	$!{lex_she} stumbles slightly as ${lex_she} begins to unbutton it, ${lex_his} other hand reaches to flip the light switch off before ${lex_she} drifts past you, 
*if (L_gen = 2)
	${lex_his} hand drifting to the ribbon at ${lex_his} neck before slowly tugging at the bow. 
	
	As ${lex_she} loosens it and lets it fall gently to the floor, ${lex_she} leans over you to flip the light switch off and drifts past you, 
heading down the hallway.

You let out a breath you didn't realize you were holding, ${lex_his} words ringing in your ears with careless intent. [i]'I'm fine…'[/i]

[i]You don't need to convince me you are.[/i]

But those words remain unspoken as you hurry after ${lex_name}, ready to support ${lex_him} in case ${lex_his} body suddenly loses control.

Halfway down the hallway, 
*if (L_gen = 1)
	${lex_name} pulls off ${lex_his} shirt, letting it fall to the floor while continuing to walk without missing a beat.

	A surge of heat 
*if (L_gen = 2)
	${lex_name} reaches for the loose ends of the laces on ${lex_his} back, pulling them to untie before tugging at the rows, loosening them one by one.

	A surge of heat 
rushes through you as you @{L_gen take in the sight of ${lex_his} toned back|watch the movements of ${lex_his} fingers}, but you quickly push it down—just like you've learned to do every time.

As soon as you reach ${lex_his} bedroom, ${lex_name} pauses at the door. 
*if (party_shouldnt = true)
	"I know you were going to suggest not going to the party before we left," ${lex_she} mumbles, ${lex_his} eyes meeting yours. "I wish I'd listened, 
*if (party_shouldnt = false)
	"I regret that we went to the party," ${lex_she} mumbles, ${lex_his} eyes meeting yours. "I wish it hadn't happened, 
so we could've spent today together… Just the two of us."

You freeze for a heartbeat before relaxing, a soft sigh escaping your lips. 

"Me too," you admit, the weight of exhaustion pressing against your mind as you reach for the door. "Don't worry, we'll have time."

*page_break But ${lex_name} doesn't step inside. 
$!{lex_his} eyes hold yours, thick with unspoken emotion as ${lex_she} quietly asks, "Will we?"

You immediately realize ${lex_she}'s bringing up an unfinished conversation you had before the party.

"Yes," you respond, reaching out to touch ${lex_his} bare shoulder and gently nudging ${lex_him} inside.

However, just as you take a few steps forward, ${lex_name} pauses once more, blocking your path. "Promise?"

"Promise," you say without hesitation, gently pushing ${lex_him} back once more. 

There's a strange glint in ${lex_his} gaze the whole time you force ${lex_him} to walk backward toward ${lex_his} bed, ${lex_his} skin warm against your palm, ${lex_his} eyes—

Suddenly, one of your legs catches on the cable stretching across the floor near ${lex_name}'s bed, and before you can brace yourself, 
your body collides with ${lex_hrs}, knocking ${lex_him} off balance as well.

The next thing you know, you're tumbling onto the bed, landing on top of ${lex_him}.

Both of you let out a sharp breath from the impact, only to freeze when you realize your faces are just inches apart, your breaths mingling and synchronizing in perfect harmony.

*page_break
For a brief moment, you find yourself unable to move, lost in the warmth of ${lex_his} happy, drunken gaze. Then, ${lex_name} closes ${lex_his} eyes and pulls you closer, 
wrapping you in ${lex_his} embrace.

"${lex_name}," you start, feeling your throat tighten.

"Mhm," ${lex_she} hums in response, obviously not intending to move or let you go.

"You're drunk," you gently remind ${lex_him}, easing yourself out of ${lex_his} grasp and swinging your legs off the bed to sit up.

"No," ${lex_she} insists in a surprisingly sober tone, and you nearly jump when ${lex_his} arms encircle your waist from behind. "I'm ${lex_name}, not drunk."

"${lex_name}, I'm serious," you say, trying to steady your voice despite the tremors you feel within as ${lex_his} warmth seeps through the fabric of your clothes.

${lex_name} chuckles softly. "Hi, serious. I'm ${lex_name}."

Unable to help it, the corners of your lips twitch upward, but you stifle a sigh of amusement. Reminding yourself once again that your friend is drunk, 
your hands instinctively reach for ${lex_his} wrists in a bid for freedom. "Look, you—"

But before you can finish, ${lex_name} nuzzles into the curve of your neck, ${lex_his} fingers digging deeper into your flesh as though ${lex_she}'s refusing to let go.

*fake_choice
	#@{icon ❤️ |}With a swift motion, you turn and pin ${lex_his} wrists to the bed. "You don't want this."
		You turn to ${lex_him} sharply, the force of your emotions bleeding into your movements as you push ${lex_him} down, pinning ${lex_his} wrists against the bed. "You don't want this."

		${lex_name} releases a muffled sigh that brushes your lips, a startled expression on ${lex_his} face causing a tight knot of guilt to form in your chest.
		
		[i]What am I doing?[/i]
		
		"Sorry…" The word escapes in a rushed, croaky whisper as you release ${lex_his} wrists and begin to pull away. "I—"
		
		But before you can even finish or straighten up, ${lex_name} wraps ${lex_his} arms around your neck, 
		pulling you toward ${lex_him} with a force that makes your palms press against the mattress on either side of ${lex_him} to steady yourself.
		
		"Don't be sorry, ${mcname_l}," ${lex_she} whispers into your ear, ${lex_his} voice filled with a mix of certainty and raw pleading that makes everything 
		within you tremble with both anticipation and fear.
		
		Fear of the desire blazing within you. Fear of the line you're about to cross. Fear of knowing that ${lex_she} won't remember this—and fear of the possibility of what 
		might follow if ${lex_she} does.
		
		*page_break
		It's not too late to stop this, to remind ${lex_him}—and yourself—that this isn't right, especially when @{drink both of you|both of you|${lex_name} is|${lex_name} is} drunk, 
		especially when it could lead to a point of no return, ruining everything you've been through.
		
		And it will be your fault.
		
		Yours, because you chose to give in to your feelings—to the actions made under the influence of alcohol.
		
		Yet, all your thoughts go silent when you feel ${lex_his} grip loosens to allow ${lex_his} hands wander——one sliding down the curve of your spine, the other 
		*if (mc_bald = true)
			grazing the back of your neck.

			You 
		*if (mc_bald = false)
			@{h_styled undoing your hair as ${lex_she} tangles ${lex_his} fingers into your strands|tangling in the hair at the nape of your neck}.
			*set h_styled false

			You 
		pull back just enough to meet ${lex_his} gaze, your breath mingling with ${lex_hrs}. "${lex_name}—"
		
		"I want to see all of you," ${lex_name} cuts in, ${lex_his} voice thick with longing as ${lex_his} leg hooks around your hip, urging it to connect with ${lex_hrs} once more. 
		"I want to feel all of you," ${lex_she} whispers, ${lex_his} words caressing your lips. "I want [i]you[/i]."
		
	#@{icon 💙 |}You freeze, a shuddering sigh escapes you as ${lex_his} breath sears the skin on your neck.
		You freeze, a shuddering sigh escaping as ${lex_his} breath sears your neck. Goosebumps ripple across your skin, every subtle sensation heightened as ${lex_his} breath trails upward, 
		lingering just by your ear.

		"If only I could ask you to stay," ${lex_name} whispers, ${lex_his} voice a mix of desperate need and raw yearning that makes everything inside you tremble, both with anticipation and fear.
		
		Fear of the desire blazing within you. Fear of the line you're about to cross. Fear of knowing ${lex_she} won't remember this—and fear of the possibility of what might happen if ${lex_she} does.
		
		It's not too late to stop this, to remind ${lex_him}—and yourself—that this isn't right, especially when @{drink both of you|both of you|${lex_she}'s|${lex_she}'s} drunk, 
		especially when it could lead to a point of no return, ruining everything you've been through.
		
		And it will be your fault.
		
		Yours, because you chose to give in to your feelings—to the words spoken under the influence of alcohol.
		
		"Why…" Your voice cracks, betraying the anguish ${lex_his} closeness, ${lex_his} words—your feelings—are causing. "Why are you saying this to me now? Why are you being so unfair?"
		
		You feel ${lex_him} stiffen behind you, and it makes your heart pound harder in your chest, each passing second urging you to flee. Yet, you don't dare move, 
		waiting for something—anything ${lex_name} might say.

		But instead of words, ${lex_name} slowly eases ${lex_his} grip on you.
		
		*page_break Your heart drops.
		The pain of how unfair all of this is, the weariness, the anger at yourself—anger at ${lex_him} for making you go through this—overwhelms you so much that it guides your actions, 
		causing you to turn and face ${lex_him}.

		${lex_name} moves at the same time you do, reaching out again, pulling you toward ${lex_him} with such force that 
		*if ((L_gen = 2) and (MC_gen = 1))
			it almost makes you lose your balance, and one of your hands accidentally end up pressing against ${lex_his} thigh.

			"How can I not be unfair?" ${lex_name} asks almost desperately, ${lex_his} words caressing your lips, the tantalizing proximity of ${lex_his} face freezing you in place.

			Realizing you're not pushing ${lex_him} away, ${lex_she} reaches out to touch your 
			@{mc_bold cheek, gently pressing ${lex_his} knuckles|cheek—this time, ${lex_she} doesn't hesitate as ${lex_his} knuckles gently press} against your skin.
			
			"If only you could see what I see…" ${lex_she} says, the tenderness in ${lex_his} tone matching the delicate strokes of ${lex_his} fingers, sending a shiver down your spine.
			
			$!{lex_his} hand drifts from your cheek, settling on your wrist and guiding it gently to where ${lex_his} heart is as ${lex_she} continues, "Feel what I feel…"
			
			$!{lex_she} releases your wrist, but your hand stays where it is, pressed against the strong, hammering pulse beneath the soft flesh of ${lex_his} 
			${lex_top}—mirroring the heat that throbs in your lower stomach.
			
			"Want me…" ${lex_name} whispers, ${lex_his} words pulsing in your ears as you feel ${lex_him} touch your hand that still rests on ${lex_his} thigh, 
			guiding it upward with agonizing slowness. 
			*goto L_apt_flirt_sub
		*else
			you end up straddling ${lex_his} lap, your palms press against @{L_gen the solid heat of ${lex_his} bare ${lex_top}|${lex_his} shoulders} to steady yourself.

			"How can I not be unfair?" ${lex_name} asks almost desperately, ${lex_his} words caressing your lips, the tantalizing proximity of ${lex_his} face freezing you in place.
			
			Realizing you're not pushing ${lex_him} away, one of ${lex_his} hands slowly curls around your waist once more, while the other reaches for your 
			@{mc_bold cheek, gently pressing ${lex_his} knuckles|cheek—this time, ${lex_she} doesn't hesitate as ${lex_his} knuckles gently press} against your skin.
			
			"If only you could see what I see…" ${lex_she} says, the tenderness in ${lex_his} tone matching the delicate strokes of ${lex_his} fingers, sending a shiver down your spine you.
			
			$!{lex_his} hand drifts from your cheek, settling on your wrist and guiding it gently to where ${lex_his} heart is as ${lex_she} continues, "Feel what I feel…"
			
			$!{lex_she} releases your wrist, but your hand stays where it is, pressed against the strong, hammering pulse beneath the 
			@{L_gen firmness of ${lex_his}|soft flesh of ${lex_his}} ${lex_top}—mirroring the heat that throbs where your hips meet ${lex_hrs}.
			
			"Want me…" ${lex_name} whispers, ${lex_his} words pulsing in your ears as you feel ${lex_him} touch your thighs, sliding ${lex_his} hands upward with agonizing slowness. 
			*goto L_apt_flirt_sub
		*goto L_apt_flirt_sub

		*label L_apt_flirt_sub
		"Like I want you."
	
*fake_choice
	#"I want you too," you say, crashing your lips against ${lex_hrs}, intending to show just how much. [i][You'll take the lead.][/i]
		*goto_scene MC_dom
	#"Then do something about it," you whisper right into ${lex_his} lips. "I'm not going to stop you." [i][${lex_name} will take the lead.][/i]
		*goto_scene MC_sub
*finish