Sam

to S.B.

You step into the bar, the noise and energy unmistakable. It’s tight, packed with people laughing and drinking, a sense of freedom in the air. The rough walls lined with old mechanical junk add to the gritty charm.

In the corner, you saw Sam, leaning against the bar with a drink in hand and a devil-may-care grin. He was just like you remembered – charismatic, effortlessly charming, and always the life of the damn party.
Tall and broad-shouldered, he exudes a chill confidence, his skin glowing under the neon lights, cutting through the chaos like it’s nothing.

You push through the throng. The last time you stepped into a place like this, you were both younger and sharing an apartment together, unsure of what was next. But Sam? He always had a plan. Fresh out of Atlanta, already plotting his future in San Francisco, going on about that restaurant he wanted to launch...

“Hey! Is that my favorite troublemaker?” Sam called out, his voice rising above the pulsating beat. His eyes lit up as you approached.

“Guilty as charged!” you replied, grinning as you stepped into his embrace. He pulled back and planted three quick pecks on your cheeks, the customary greeting that brought a warmth to your chest.

“I’ve missed this energy!” you yell over the pounding music, soaking in the wild crowd around you. Bodies grind together, lost in the beat, laughter and shouts erupting from every corner. This bar has seen it all.

“Me too! You look amazing. San Francisco still suits you!” Sam exclaimed, his eyes sparkling. “How’s everything going?”

“Oh, you know how it is – crazy busy, but it’s good. Work’s steady, and I’m hanging in there,” you replied. “Just taking a moment for myself.”

“Good call! You need to unwind,” he said, leaning in a bit closer. “Speaking of unwinding… Listen, maybe we should have a little fun and… head to my place? Honestly, I’ve missed you like hell. We could drink together, talk. And… so on.”

You laughed, noticing that familiar sparkle in his eyes. He hadn’t changed a bit, always dancing that line between playful and sincere. “You know, I've always had a thing for you, Sammy, but honestly, I’ve got a lot going on right now. My focus is elsewhere.”

He shrugged, but that smirk was still there, playful as ever. “I get it. You’re a busy guy.”

There was no denying the natural connection between the two of you, that had always been there.
“You know, I could use a little something to take the edge off. I’m not looking for anything heavy, though. Just… an escape.”

“Ah, the classic one-night stand,” he shot back, winking. “Yeah, I get it. It’s your call. I think you'll get what you want here.”

He hesitated and looked away, and you could see he was upset. So, you figured it was time to change the subject.

“So, how’s your restaurant going?” you asked.

“Everything’s great, thanks for asking,” Sam replied, his grin widening. “By the way, I’m expecting you on Saturday. I’ve come up with something grand, and you’ve got to see it.”

“Consider it a deal,” you said with a smile.

Sam clapped you on the shoulder. “Perfect! Now let’s make tonight just as unforgettable.”

Dave was behind the bar tonight. He was a striking guy, ink crawling up his arms, a quiet confidence in his movements as he leaned over the bar. The glint in his eyes told you he was used to the scene, comfortable in the chaos.

“Dave, can we get a couple of cocktails?” Sam called out, waving him over.

“Dave, I’ll have whiskey,” you add.

“Coming right up!” Dave replied, sliding over with a smooth smile as he poured the drinks. “What’s the occasion tonight, boys?”

“Just catching up with an… old friend,” Sam replied, his gaze never leaving yours. “And maybe looking for a little fun. Two guys, one night – no regrets.”

Dave chuckled as he dropped the drinks on the bar. “You’re in the right place for that. Just let me know if you need anything else.” He walked away, leaving a palpable energy in his wake.

You took a deep swig, letting the whiskey burn down your throat. The warmth coursed through you, softening the edges of the night as the alcohol kicked in.

“Ready to hit the dance floor?” Sam asked, his excitement palpable.
“Absolutely! Let’s f…..g go!” You barreled through the crowd, the bass slamming in your chest, each beat dragging you deeper into the madness…