**Chapter 2: "A Night to Remember"**

The cool night air enveloped them like a gentle caress, a welcome respite from the sweltering heat of the club. As they stepped onto the sidewalk, Dorothy felt a sense of relief wash over her. She took a deep breath, feeling the warm Miami air fill her lungs, and gazed out at the vibrant cityscape. The neon lights of the clubs and bars reflected off the wet pavement, casting a colorful glow over the crowded streets. The group of friends stood there for a moment, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. They laughed and chatted, enjoying the brief reprieve from the music and the crowds. Dorothy, feeling a bit overheated, fanned herself with her hand, her eyes scanning the crowded sidewalk. That's when she saw him – a tall, handsome stranger with piercing blue eyes and a charming smile. He was standing across the street, watching them with a look of interest on his face. Dorothy felt a sudden jolt of attraction, her heart skipping a beat as their eyes met. She quickly looked away, trying to play it cool, but she couldn't help sneaking another glance in his direction. He was still watching her, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. Rose, ever the observant one, noticed Dorothy's fascination with the stranger. "Who's that?" she asked, nodding discreetly in his direction. Dorothy shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant. "No idea," she said, "but I think he's trying to make eye contact with me." Blanche and Sophia turned to look, their faces curious. The stranger, sensing he was being stared at, raised his hand in a casual wave. Dorothy felt a flush rise to her cheeks as she returned the gesture. As they stood there, frozen in a moment of awkwardness, the stranger began to make his way across the street. "I think he's coming over," Sophia said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. The stranger approached them, his smile growing wider as he drew closer. "Mind if I join you?" he asked, his voice low and smooth. "I'm Lucas." Dorothy felt a spark of electricity as she shook his hand. "I'm Dorothy," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. As they stood there, hands touching, she felt a connection she couldn't quite explain. The group chatted with Lucas for a while, learning that he was a writer, originally from New York, but now living in Miami. He was easy to talk to, and Dorothy found herself laughing and joking with him like they'd known each other for years. As they talked, she couldn't help but notice the way his eyes crinkled at the corners when he smiled, or the way his hair curled slightly at the nape of his neck. As the conversation flowed, Dorothy felt herself becoming more and more at ease. She couldn't remember the last time she'd felt such a strong connection with someone. It was as if they'd known each other for years, not just minutes. As they stood there, the noise and chaos of the city seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them, lost in conversation. Dorothy glanced at her friends, who were watching her with knowing smiles. They seemed to sense that something was happening, that a connection had been made. As the night wore on, Lucas asked for their numbers, and they happily obliged. "I'd love to take you out for coffee sometime," he said, his eyes locked on Dorothy's. Dorothy felt a flutter in her chest as she agreed. "I'd like that," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. As they parted ways, Dorothy couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. She had a feeling that this chance encounter might just be the start of something special.