Inside we pushed our way through the crowd. The venue was jammed with people, the air sweaty and scented with sugary liquor shots. Neon and mirrors shone behind rows of bottles. Somehow she managed to sequester a stool by the bar. I stood beside her and we roared at each other over the loud voices and pumping music.

The music pounds and you lean in close to each other to try and discern what’s being said. You brush skin. You smell the scent of each other. For a moment, for a fraction of a moment you dare to wonder, what would happen if I just kissed her now? Would she slap my face? Would she kiss me back? Would the world around us run in slow motion as we taste each other’s lips? Our hearts beating faster, our hands reaching out to stroke each other’s backs and arms. Could it be that this is what she’s thinking too? I humour myself and entertain the notion. Then let it go.

(Excerpt from a short story I’m writing at the moment)