I remain at the bar for a few more minutes before admitting that being out has done nothing to help me. If anything, it’s made me realize just how much I miss the nights I spent at home with Hailey. Some were uncomfortable and full of arguments, yes. But most were cozy, and dare I say... domestic. 

I leave through the club’s backdoor, not in the mood to push through sweaty bodies and suffocating noise. The cool air outside hits me like a breath of relief, and I linger for a while, enjoying the breeze.

I'm alone until the door creaks open and someone steps out. It's too dark to...