The party was in full swing when they arrived, the old docks transformed into a neon dreamscape. Strings of fairy lights crisscrossed between rusted shipping containers, casting a kaleidoscope of colors over the pulsing crowd. A massive sound system thrummed with bass-heavy beats, the rhythm vibrating through the wooden planks beneath their feet. Smoke machines pumped out hazy mist that swirled around dancing bodies, illuminated by strobe lights that flashed in time with the music.
To one side, a makeshift bar had been set up on stacked crates, manned by a guy with neon-painted arms who juggled bottles with showman's flair. Nearby, groups lounged on repurposed pallet sofas, laughing over drinks as the scent of saltwater mixed with sweat and sugar.
Jessica squeezed Jayden's hand, rising on her toes to speak over the music. "I see some friends—gotta say hi! Be right back, don't have fun without me!"
