Acquaintances | George Clarke
“Squeeze together, guys!” I called out, directing my girlfriends to move so they were all visible through my viewfinder. It wouldn’t be a real night out without some truly unflattering moments captured on 35mm.
After battling the varying levels of drunkenness and the DJ playing Pitbull, I finally manage to get a photo.
“That was really impressive,” a tall, blue eyed man softly laughs beside me. “I don’t know that I could get my mates to cooperate like that.”
“I promised them I’d shout a sambuca. Pretty sure they’d do anything for a free drink.”
He laughs. “That’s fair actually, alcohol tastes better when it’s free”.
For a moment, we stand side by side people watching. I look over to the girls - twirling each other around on the dancefloor, eyes closed, wearing smiles that stretch right across their faces.
“So, are you here with your friends?” I ask, trying to engage the man in conversation. It’s almost as though I’ve only just noticed how gorgeous he is.
“Sort of.” He hesitates. “Well yeah, I am. A few of my good mates are here and the rest are kinda friends of friends… people I’ve not really interacted with”.
“Ah so a classic case of ditching your acquaintances for a stranger.” I tease, catching the way his lip turns up to disguise the grin. Fuck, are his eyes twinkling?
“Well, I was actually on my way to the bar before I got blinded by your flash”. He smirks, turning to face me. “I might have to grab your details in case I end up having to sue for damages.”
“My name is y/n.” I reach out my hand and he shakes it softly.
“George.” he smiles, his eyes lingering on mine a little too long.
“Well George, I don’t know too much about lawsuits but I think a free pint could probably even us out.”
“If you’re lucky, I might even promote you from stranger to acquaintance”. He winks, gently resting a hand on my shoulder.
“Guess we better get you a drink and find out.” I gesture for him to follow, eventually settling for holding his hand as we navigate the crowd.
