Chapter 1: A Night to Remember

The atmosphere buzzed within the one-bedroom apartment where a small gathering of friends had gathered for what was meant to be a low-key celebration. Drinks were flowing, some had brought ecstasy, while others indulged in marijuana, creating a typical teenage party vibe. The music oscillated between hip-hop and dance tracks, controlled by various attendees, while cheap rave lights set the scene reminiscent of early 2000s teenage hangouts.

With the lights dimmed, laughter and chatter filled the room as people reveled in their chosen substances. At one point, my close friends Chris and Jessica slipped away into the bedroom, closing the door behind them. Everyone understood what that meant, but the fun was too contagious for anyone to intervene.

After a while, I noticed Chris emerging from the bedroom, a look of urgency on his face.

"Joe, I need your help," he said, his eyes wide and pupils dilated from the drugs.

"What’s going on?" I replied.

"Can you please go in there and tell her that it's not her fault I can't perf