Three couples sprawled around the lounge, digesting pasta. Wine lapped at tilted rims as wreaths of smoke cruised into guttering candles, spread against the ceiling and descended. Fairy lights completed the scene.
'Let's go out!' exclaimed Yvonne.
A shudder swept through the others. Liam, the host, shot a visual plea to Neil.
'Now now, sugar.' Neil stroked Yvonne's long hair. We've got everything we need right here. Liam and Sylvie have created a lovely environment for us; why not relax and enjoy it?'
Yvonne tossed her head. 'Because I think we should all go out. Club Foramen is only 600 metres from this ashtray. We're young and it's only 10:30. We've gotta live, before it's too late! Come on; let's hear some sounds and see some cats! Whatta ya say?'
Ever the diplomat, Sylvia calmed Liam with a caress. 'I'm easy; what does everyone else think?'
Yvonne leapt up and gazed into every face.
'I do not mind,' pronounced Ulrik. 'I will go if every body else wants to go.'
Sonya patted his thigh. 'That's my boy; two shots of Finlandia and you're anyone's. What the hell, we never go out.'
Liam baulked at leaving the cocoon he had so carefully constructed. 'It's your night folks, but may I remind you we have entertainment here.'
'Guitars and Playstation?' retorted Yvonne.
'Yeah!' chorused Liam and Neil.
'No way. You guys can do that anytime. Tonight's a celebration.'
Ulrik looked up. 'Of what is it a celebration?'
Yvonne whipped a quarter ounce from her jacket and tossed it to the floor. 'Of the biggest goddamn joint you ever saw in your life!'
Liam leaned forward, beanbag balls streaming like tadpoles under his thighs. 'Ahem. This er, hmm. This could well alter the fabric of the entire evening.'

To be continued...