Chapter Four: Aurora

Aurora, riding the high from giving Russ a lap dance, feels both validated and exposed when he avoids eye contact, then admits she’s “too hot,” heightening their mutual tension. During the resumed Jenga game, Russ stands behind Aurora, guiding her moves and holding her close, signaling growing comfort and desire between them.

The tower collapses on Henry’s turn, prompting teasing from friends, and Aurora leaves with Emilia for drinks. In the kitchen, Emilia notes Russ’s shyness and steps outside to take a call. Alone, Aurora doom-scrolls her father’s girlfriend’s stories and sees her father helping the girlfriend’s daughter move, triggering deep hurt over his neglect.

Russ approaches, notices Aurora’s mood, and gently checks if she’s okay. At Aurora’s request for a secret, Russ admits she makes him nervous, that he finds her stunning, and that he dislikes parties but is glad he met her. His candor steadies Aurora, and she suggests they leave the party noise for his room.

Upstairs, after confirming they’re buzzed but not drunk and sharing her location with Emilia, Aurora surveys Russ’s tidy, impersonal room and asks if he has a girlfriend. Russ shows a photo of the team celebrating a trophy, briefly sharing that it was the best day of his life, but deflects deeper explanation.

As their flirting turns direct, Aurora invites physical closeness. Russ responds gently, cupping her chin and promising to ignore any timer, signaling clear intent and continued consent as they prepare to take their connection further in private.