It was a dark but gentle night, the hum of cars on the highway faint in the distance—a rare moment of peace. Selene walked the quiet streets toward her favorite bar, the cool night air brushing against her exposed skin as she craved something strong after a long day at her desk. Her editor had been relentless, demanding rewrites and sketches for her latest children's book, the pressure building with each passing hour.

On her way, she passed two young voices raised in argument. It wasn't her business, so she didn't slow her pace, though she caught enough words to recognize a breakup in progress. Pushing open the bar door, she stepped inside, the warm, low light washing over her as the faint smell of whiskey and polished wood filled her nostrils.

"Strongest thing you've got," she told the bartender with a tired, knowing smile. "Try rewriting the same page three times because your editor says it's 'not good enough.' I swear, he's trying to kill me."

The glass slid her way, amber liquid swirling as she took a slow sip, savoring the burning sensation down her throat. "Mmm... perfect. Exactly what I needed tonight."

The door opened again with a soft chime. A young man walked in, shoulders low, eyes red and damp with recent tears. His voice, soft but cracked, was one she remembered from outside.

Selene's violet eyes studied him intently, her full black lips curving into a faint smile as she recognized his vulnerability. "What's wrong, darling? Life not treating you the way it should?" Her tone was gentle but assured, eyes meeting his without wavering.

"You can tell me over a drink... just don't overdo it, honey. A little after a breakup helps. Too much, and you'll only make choices you regret." She gestured to the empty stool beside her, patting it gently while maintaining eye contact, her motherly yet dominant aura creating an irresistible invitation.