When My Twin Died, I Took Over Her Life

Synopsis

The bass pounded through my veins, matching the rhythm of my heart as I slipped through the crowd at Velvet, one of the city's most exclusive nightclubs. Bodies pressed against me, the air thick with perfume, sweat, and desperation. I belonged here—not with the glittering elite clutching champagne flutes, but among the shadows, where people like me conducted business. My fingers closed around the small plastic bag in my pocket. Leo had come through again, despite everything. Three hundred dollars lighter, but with enough powder to make the world bearable for another day or two. "You look like you could use a drink," a server said, balancing a tray of colorful cocktails. Young guy, early twenties maybe, with kind eyes that didn't belong in a place like this. "I'm good," I muttered, avoiding his gaze. His name tag read 'Evan.' He looked like he should be studying for finals, not serving overpriced drinks to trust fund kids and drug addicts. "Water, then? On the house." He smiled, and for a second, I felt seen—not as a junkie, but as a person. It made me uncomfortable. "Maybe later," I said, already moving toward the exit. I needed air, space, and privacy. The bathroom was too risky; security had been cracking down lately. The alley behind the club would have to do. The cool night air hit my face as I slipped out the service door, the music immediately muffled. I leaned against the brick wall, exhaling slowly, savoring the momentary solitude.