Chapter 32

Aidan

The moment we stepped into the club, my senses got hit with a wave of musty air that clung to the skin. The strobe lights flickered like faulty stars in the smoky haze above us, and the thumping bass from the speakers rattled my ribs.

I coughed, trying to clear my lungs of the thick air as Joseph nudged my shoulder.

"Keep your eyes peeled, Joseph," I muttered over the racket.

My gaze swept over the grimy dance floor, past the silhouettes swaying and grinding to the relentless beat. And then, there she was. My heart kicked against my chest as I spotted Ellie—or whatever name she went by here—on that small stage in the dead center of the room. A spotlight clung to her like an unwanted suitor, illuminating her every move.