The thumping bass reverberated through the sticky floor of the Manhattan bar, a chaotic symphony to the end of classes. Lisa, my best friend, nudged me with an elbow, her eyes gleaming with mischief as she gestured towards a tall, muscular figure who had just entered.

"You didn't go out with Mitchel last night? You're quick," I teased, raising an eyebrow, a familiar game between us.

She laughed, a bright, uninhibited sound. "Five minutes, that's all I have to say in my defense."

We dissolved into laughter, the clinking of glasses and murmur of conversations fading into the background. The air was thick with the scent of cheap beer and anticipation, a heady mix that usually felt foreign to me. Tonight, however, it was a celebratory haze.

Earlier, the final test had concluded, the one that would determine who among us would land a coveted spot at Ryan Enterprises, a name synonymous with power and prestige. It was a chance to work directly with the CEO, a launchpad for any career. For me, it was everything.

"Where are we celebrating tonight?" Brad slurred, already half-gone, his glass held aloft like a chalice.

"Edge club?" Sarah shrieked, her usual reserve melted away by the alcohol. Even she was excited. My friends turned to me, their eyes expectant.

"Kate?" Lisa's gaze was piercing, daring me to refuse.

I sighed, a familiar weariness settling in. "Sure, it's fine by me. Actually, I'm so tired after all the stress from the test that..."

"No. Absolutely not. Don't you dare," Lisa cut me off, a playful scowl on her face. "Don't worry, guys, I'll take care of her. Let's meet at ten in front of the nightclub. Don't be late."

Before I could protest, she grabbed my hand, pulling me out of the bar and towards her car. The city lights blurred as we drove, my mind already drifting, exhausted from weeks of relentless studying. I knew it was useless to argue with Lisa; it was always a lost battle.