Streamers and confetti littered the floor.

Distant music throbbed in the background.

Bodies draped across chairs.

Make-up stained faces, smeared lipstick,

Dark eyes in shades of blue, purple and black.

Champagne glasses with barely a sip left.

She snuggled up to him after looking around.

A sly grin spread across her face.

Surprisingly, her face was still fresh,

Just her lips, plump pink, pressed to his cheek.

“Want to join me for the after party?”

She giggled and stood up, holding his hand.

He grinned and followed her to the balcony.

A brisk wind swept her hair as they embraced,

He guided her in a dance, then they kissed.

“Happy New Year!” He whispered in her ear.

And what a good year it will be, 2023.