As the night deepened, our energy shifted from frantic fun to easy companionship. We shared plans and worries—Kush about an upcoming gig, Karla about a job interview, Arya about a bold move she was planning, Tushy about a family visit, and Fae about a quiet fear she hadn’t voiced before. The room that had been full of noise settled into a calm that felt honest and rare. We didn’t solve each other’s problems, but the simple act of being present made them lighter.