Bryan Farro stepped off the ferry, his heart heavy with turmoil. The vibrant colors of the sunset did little to lift his spirits as he made his way towards Mango's, where he hoped to find solace in the familiar chaos of the piano bar. The scent of saltwater mixed with distant cigarette smoke, reminding him of the nights he’d spent here with Michael Rubins.
"I just need some time to think," he muttered to himself, clutching his overnight bag closer as he walked.
Misty Bay locked eyes with Bryan for a brief moment, her expression softening. She knew more than she let on, and the knowledge weighed heavy on her. Bryan settled at the bar, nodding to Misty as he ordered a drink, trying to blend into the background of chatter and music.
"You look like you could use a friend," Misty said gently during a break in her performance, leaning over the bar towards him.
"I think I need more than that," Bryan replied, glancing around nervously.
Peter had always harbored feelings for Bryan, and now, seeing him so vulnerable, he couldn’t help but want to offer comfort. As Bryan approached, Peter offered a warm smile, gesturing to an empty stool.
"It’s been a rough few days, hasn’t it?" Peter said, pouring a drink.
"You could say that," Bryan replied, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. Peter had a way of making everything seem just a bit more bearable.
Bryan paused, turning to face Peter, his voice barely above a whisper. "I think I’m ready to leave Michael," he confessed, the words both liberating and terrifying.
Peter reached out, his hand finding Bryan's in the darkness. "You’ve got me, remember that," he said softly, his presence a steady anchor in the swirling sea of uncertainty.
Misty Bay caught sight of Helen in the back, her leathery skin almost blending with the shadows. The knowledge of what Helen had done pressed heavily on Misty, but fear kept her silent.
"This next number is dedicated to those who can’t speak up," Misty announced, her voice carrying both defiance and sorrow.
Bryan knew the path ahead wouldn’t be easy, but with Peter by his side, he felt ready to face whatever came next. As the ferry approached, he took a deep breath, ready to step into a new chapter, leaving the shadows of the past behind.
















