Chapter 5: Unseen Sparks
The party continued in full swing as Zina and Aria navigated through the crowd. The atmosphere buzzed with energy, and despite the brief tension with Jade, they were determined to enjoy the night. Music thumped through the speakers, the lights flashed in vibrant colors, and laughter mingled with the scent of spilled drinks and perfume.
Zina spotted an open spot on a couch and nudged Aria. "Let's take a break for a bit."
"Thank goodness," Aria said, relief evident in her voice. They made their way over and settled into the plush cushions. Zina took a moment to survey the room, letting the chaotic scene wash over her.
"Look over there," Zina said, nodding toward a figure standing a few feet away. He leaned against the wall, arms crossed, with an air of indifference that set him apart from the lively crowd. It was Kane.
"Wow," Aria said, following Zina's gaze. "He looks like he's in a completely different world."
Kane was dressed simply in a black shirt and dark jeans, but his presence was anything but ordinary. His cold, piercing eyes scanned the room, seemingly disinterested in the party's energy. The contrast was striking. While everyone else danced and mingled, he appeared utterly detached.
Zina watched as Jade drifted nearby, her gaze fixed on Kane. She wore a flirtatious smile, but Zina could sense the tension in the air. Jade was clearly hoping for some acknowledgment, but Kane remained oblivious, his attention focused elsewhere.
"You're staring," Aria said, breaking Zina's concentration.
"Was not," Zina shot back, but she couldn't help glancing back at Kane.
Aria raised an eyebrow. "Sure, and I'm the Queen of England."
Zina laughed, shaking her head. "He's got that whole 'too cool for this' vibe going on."
Aria studied Kane for a moment. "He's kind of intimidating, though."
"Maybe," Zina said, shrugging. "But I don't see what the big deal is."
Just then, Jade seized her opportunity. She approached Kane with a practiced smile, her tone light and flirtatious. "Kane, you're just standing here all alone? Come join the party."
Kane glanced at her, his expression unreadable. "I'm fine here."
Jade forced a tight smile, but Zina could see the frustration simmering beneath the surface. "Well, if you change your mind, you know where to find me."
Kane didn't respond, his focus already drifting back to the crowd. Jade lingered for a moment longer before walking away, visibly annoyed.
Zina decided to make her move. She stood and approached Kane, her curiosity piqued. "Having fun?" she asked, adopting a casual tone.
Kane shrugged, his gaze still fixed on the party. "As much fun as one can have at these things."
"Then why come?" Zina asked, genuinely curious.
"Alex dragged me out," Kane replied, his voice devoid of enthusiasm.
Zina raised an eyebrow. "So… you came because of Alex?"
"Yes," Kane said simply, but the way he said it suggested there was more beneath the surface.
Before she could probe further, Alex approached them, Aria trailing behind with an annoyed look on her face.
"Looks like someone's having fun," Zina teased, throwing a wink at Aria.
"Fun?" Aria scoffed, crossing her arms. "More like dealing with someone who doesn't know the meaning of personal space."
Alex grinned, unbothered by Aria's clear irritation. "Come on, Aria, I was just trying to show you a good time."
"By dragging me into every conversation? No, thanks." Aria shot back, her tone firm.
Zina watched the exchange with mild amusement. The chemistry between Aria and Alex was undeniable, even if it was filled with playful banter.
Kane shifted slightly, his expression still unreadable. "I'm heading out," he announced suddenly.
"I'm exhausted already, so I'll go with you," Alex added, his voice cheerful.
Aria looked taken aback. "You're leaving already?"
"Yeah, I need to recharge," Kane replied, glancing at her.
Alex grinned at Aria, leaning in a little closer. "Goodnight, sweetheart. Try not to miss me too much."
"Dream on, Alex," Aria replied, rolling her eyes, but Zina caught the hint of a smile on her lips.
"Every night, darling," Alex shot back with a wink as he turned to follow Kane out of the party.
Zina watched them leave, her curiosity about Kane growing stronger. What was it about him that fascinated her? She had a feeling that beneath his icy exterior was a story worth uncovering.
"What do you think?" Aria asked, breaking her thoughts.
"About what?" Zina replied, still looking toward the door.
"About Kane. He seems like a tough nut to crack."
"I don't know. There's something intriguing about him," Zina admitted, her gaze drifting back to the crowd.
Aria tilted her head. "Intriguing? More like intimidating."
"Maybe both," Zina said, her eyes still searching. "I can't help but wonder what's going on in that head of his."
"Good luck with that," Aria said, laughing lightly. "You're going to need it. He doesn't exactly seem open to sharing."
"Maybe I can change that," Zina replied, her voice playful.
"You sound like those I can change him girls" Aria replied
playfully.
"Let's get back to the dorm" Zina said, laughing slightly