As soon as I reached at Ashton's house, I could hear the loud music blasting inside his mansion.

Everything was decorated with lightings. And I could see lots of teenagers mostly our high-school buddies.

I get out from my car and went towards the entrance. As I enter I was greeted by strong scent of alcohol. I ignored it and went inside.

Everyone was busy, some drinking while some dancing and also some kissing.Eww.

There were lots of lightings, dj, deserts and drinks were setup on the tables.

I went further and tip- toed so that I could find my friends as it was really crowded.

I saw Cassie, Stacey and Aaron sitting on the couch. I approached them while pushing away the drunken teenagers. I really don't know why they drink if they can't handle themselves.

Finally, I reached them. Immediately, Cassie took me in a bone crushing hug.

"Ca-Cassie I-I can't breathe." She backed away while muttering a sorry.

"Ave I am happy that you made it to the party", she chirped.

"Cause even if I don't ,you would have forced me", I replied in a plain voice.

"Can't help it", she said flipping her hair in a prideful gesture. Cassie could really be demanding sometimes but still she is my best friend.

I greeted Stacey and Aaron. To which Stacey smiled and Aaron nodded in response. But I didn't found Emma and Liam.

"Where are those love birds?" I asked Cassie while she giggled at my comment.

"They are behind you on the dance floor" Cassie replied while gesturing towards my back.

I turned and saw Liam and Emma dancing together. Emma noticed me and smiled and gestured me to join her.

I just shook my head and signaled her to carry on. I turned and sat on the couch beside Stacey.

We chatted for a while, after that Aaron and Stacey went to grab some drinks. Leaving me and Cassie alone.

"Sooo, are you enjoying?" Cassie asked while wriggling her eyebrows in excitement.

"Yeah, I think it was not a bad idea" I said truthfully.

Then she asked me to dance but I replied her that I will join later.

**********

After Cassie left to dance ,I went to have a drink. I made my way towards the drinks counter. And ordered a shot of tequila. I will not drink too much as I am a very light drinker. And I have to drive back home.

The bartender brought the drink and I devour it in a single sip. Instantly the liquid gives an aching sensation inside my throat as I gulped it down.

I felt a slight tap on my shoulder and I turned to look at the person.

It was Ashton himself smiling at me, he was wearing a navy blue shirt and ripped jeans but still he looks nice.

I smiled and greeted him. He sat beside me and ordered for a shot. He then turned towards me and feeling of sadness came arise in me. I don't know if he hates me for rejecting his proposal. We haven't talked for quite long time as we all were busy in our lives. He looked at my disappointed face and spoke-

"Ave, I know you are still thinking about that proposal but don't feel bad I can understand your situation and it's a long time back thing. And anyways we can still be friends. " He said while giving me his charming smile. And all my sadness faded. And I nodded.

"So happy birthday, Ashy" I said by calling him by his nick name. As we are back to being normal friends.

"Hey don't call me that, I feel like I am a toddler" He said while making an annoyed face at his nick name.

"But its cute and suits you" I said while teasing then we both started laughing.

"Okay but only you could call, and don't tell anyone else about it especially Liam, you know he is such a tease." He said while smiling. And I felt good as he still cares for me.

"Thanks Ashy for understanding, you know I can't loose a friend like you." I said with honesty. And he nodded in response.

Then his friends dragged him with them. I decided to go near the swimming pool as there were less people. There were colorful lamps hanging around there. And some comfy couches and tables were setup near the pool.

As I reached there, I sat on the bench near the pool and looked at the starry sky. The moon was shining illuminating the surroundings as it was dim lights near the pool. Slight breeze was blowig making me relax and I closed my eyes. And at that time it was just the serene atmosphere and me.

"Its beautiful how just looking at the sky gives us so much peace. I think nature has its own calming power"- a deep low voice said beside me and instantly I opened my eyes and looked at the owner of these words.

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