Emma's POV 

I strolled into the bar, craving something strong enough to drown out my thoughts-if only for a little while. The place was dimly lit, a mix of low chatter and clinking glasses filling the air. It wasn't exactly the kind of place I frequented, but tonight? Tonight, I needed it. 

Sliding onto a barstool, I exhaled slowly before ordering a shot. Then another. And another. Each one burned on the way down, but the warmth in my chest was a welcome distraction from the mess ...