Chapter Eight

                                    

                                          
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Word Count: 2160
                          
~Alaya
                          
This time, I may have a clear idea of what I want, but I'm still completely drowned in the atmosphere. 
                          
Being alone isn't really an option, as I stumble into the crowd, shrouded by so many people I could consider them all my dance partner. The musky scent of expensive perfume around me is as intoxicating as the alcohol someone has shoved into my hand again. It's the same clear liquid from last time, which I blamed my lost memory on. 
                          
I weave my way between everyone's limbs, while trying not to draw attention to me. My plan is to find out who is behind my invitation, or at least why I'm here. 
                          
The table lined with food and beverages is similar to last year, except it's missing the two girls from last year. They were one of my last memories before everything went blank. Them talking about the Alpha has burnt into my mind now. I wonder if they ever did find Asher. 
                          
Doubtful.
                          
As I stand there, I realise I don't have a clue what I'm doing. My invitation did say that I was allowed on any floor, which is worth exploring. If the Apha's associates actually party here, I might be able to corner them. If they are drunk, it will be even easier to convince some information out of them. That's the decision made then. 
                          
As I approach the foot of the stairs, the Guard letting people up to the landing immediately pulls the rope back. I'm surprised, initially. I had expected to give my name and for him to check it off. Being let in with a single glance in my direction is a surprise I'm not sure about. 
                          
"Keep walking past the landing. The parties better right up the stairs," the guard tells me. 
                          
"I think I want to check out the first part before I go upstairs," I reply. The fact that they keep that part of the party so separate and secretive has got me as curious as Sky was about it last year. 
                          
The Guard however, grabs my arm before I can breeze past. "Right upstairs, please."
                          
"Don't touch me," I growl, pulling away. 
                          
I hop up the stairs as quickly as my shoes will allow. His words burn in my head as much as the phantom grip does on my skin. This entire night is filled with strange experiences, and I have a feeling it's only going to get worse. I could have questioned him but that would be pointless. I'm going to go to the landing, to avoid what he instructed. He's obviously in command of whoever wrote my invitation. If they want to see me, they can come get me themselves. 
                          
Another curtains of shimmer keeps the party on the landing separated from the outside. I push it back, emerging into the area that's like a completely different world. 
                          
The simplicity of the downstairs party becomes apparent the moment I drink everything in. This is clearly themed after what the Desire Pack truly believes in. The night, and some lights to brighten it. No one seems to be as blinded as I am, as I try fathom the glittering stars on the ceiling that scatter down to the floor at my feet. They are the main source of light, flickering across people's faces as they dance and talk animatedly. It's a lot calmer up here, but everyone is obviously having a good time. 
                          
I keep the wall as I scale around, my eyes adjusting to the brightness that entwines with the darkness. Shadows conceal me in an unnerving manner. Anyone could hide in the thick coat of darkness back here, while everyone toward the middle of the room dance under the galaxy of stars.