Here's hoping you make the most of this new year 2023!

[ᴘʀᴏᴍᴘᴛ]: Amy got ditched at her company's New Year's Eve party, and she's feeling unconfident about interacting with others. As the clock ticks down, there may be a chance she'll find something, or someone, that'll cheer up her spirits.

/𝚆𝙾𝚁𝙳𝚂/: 3,972

『••✎••』

This should have been the final day where Amy should be partying, celebrating her accomplishments while reminiscing good memories that occurred in this soon-to-be-gone year. She should be preparing her resolutions and reflecting on what she looks forward to with her pals and loved ones. A free night where she reframes herself from negative thoughts and lets broken friendships be a thing of the past.

Yet, Amy's been searching for a purple cat for the last 45 minutes. She can't seem to locate him anywhere, regardless of the number of times she checked everywhere. It's making her anxious about the possibility of being ditched at the company's New Year's Eve party.

The pink hedgehog would usually spend the holiday alone at her apartment. She would bid farewell with a glass of champagne in hand and watch the fireworks displays; However, she and the employees of SEGA Incorporation surprisingly got invited by the CEO to celebrate New Year's Eve at his beachside mansion perched high on the hillside. Her co-worker, Big, wanted Amy to accompany him, convincing her that it would be the perfect opportunity to get to know the people at her workplace much better. Knowing she couldn't pass this up, she agreed to join.

Everything was going smoothly for them at the party until Big went to grab a drink and disappeared. He did seem to be looking for someone, so Amy waited near the home bar, thinking he would bring someone to introduce her to. Nonetheless, it had led her to watch others dance, go constant visits to the restroom to fix her quills or makeup, and wander around so nobody would see her as a loner. It kept her distracted from her worries.

More guests are arriving. They look so delighted to see their friends and appear to interact effortlessly, something Amy wishes she could do as she's a shy person. She wants to make a great impression on others but is scared of approaching them. Even so, she hates standing around awkwardly without mustering courage because she knows that immediately after leaving the party, she'll regret not socializing later.

'But what's the point in looking for him if he abandoned you? He probably can't stand you latching onto him.'

Great. There goes her mind attacking her self-esteem again, always finding a way to discourage and be a pessimist. This isn't what Amy wants to deal with right now, but it's hard to disregard the criticizing voice in the back of her head.

'See, I told you you shouldn't have shown up. Stop sulking around and go home. You're ruining everyone's enjoyment.'

"Ugh! Then why did I even bother coming here?" She muttered to herself. Frustrated tears began to well up in her eyes as she wiped at them furiously. The atmosphere in the room was getting suffocating, and her ongoing down attitude only fueled it further, becoming unbearable for Amy to handle. She needed to get out of there.

She quickly climbs upstairs to the roof terrace, silently crying, where she finds a few partygoers hanging out on the white oasis-chic outdoor furniture. Amy exhales a heavy sigh, cleaning up the tears from her face before ambling her way to the glass railings. The cold breeze of the sea's starry night greeted her, calming the negative emotions that had been building up inside. Boats and Yachts float on the dozy waters as the waves of rich laughter of little neighboring families and friends echo from the sandy beach. She wondered if she could overcome her shyness one day.

Amy pulls her phone out of her black baguette purse, checking out the time left up to the countdown. With two hours remaining, the pink hedgehog puts away her phone and closes her eyes. She focuses on the sound of her own breathing as she encourages herself to open up among these strangers.

If she's determined to make acquaintances or new friends, she needs to get a decent conversation started. It doesn't matter if it's small talk. It's always better to attempt chatting with someone else than doing nothing at all. And as long as Amy can be at ease, she can shut out the scared feeling of looking stupid and not worry about people not liking her.

Forget about Big! He wasn't the gentle giant she had thought he was. She couldn't believe he had ditched her. She thought they were friends! But who cares anymore! Amy's going to make sure she has the best time of her life.

Besides, if things aren't going right, she can always go for her escape plan.

Out of the blue, loud noisemakers interrupt her concentration. Amy turns around and sees black, white, and gold confetti pop into the air. Those around draw their attention to the small group of three who began giving out accessories to wear. One of them handed Amy a black filigree masquerade mask and placed a gold beaded necklace on her. That said person, a blue hedgehog wearing a New Years' top hat and a glow stick necklace, then stepped aside and gave an announcement.

"I hope everyone's having a blast tonight!" He shouted, his outgoing energy captivating everybody. "Before anyone loses their mind with enough drinks, Mr. Raisupi figured we could all do something fun until the countdown. There will be a giant piñata in the backyard soon, so if anyone wants to join, you are always welcome."

He can tell there was enthusiasm upon the news. After all, who wouldn't like to watch grown adults try to obliterate the piñata while blindfolded? Even if all the 60 guests won't participate in the activity, the announcer still wants to be part of the event, especially when the party has been helping him take his mind off something.

"You guys are the last ones to know. Either way, I'm looking forward to seeing everyone there. Cya!" The blue hedgehog gestured a two-fingered salute before leaving the roof terrace with his group.

It didn't take too long for many people to be in the outdoor space, lined up or circled to observe. The giant disco ball piñata was hanging in the middle, the rope tied to a palm tree as SEGA's CEO Mr. Raisupi held the other end from the second-floor balcony. When the game started, the periwinkle rabbit in his red signature bowtie would hoist it higher to make blindfolded players miss the piñata completely.

Each swing and hit riled up the crowd with whoops, whistles and laughter. Amidst the spectators, Amy was enjoying herself. She wants to join in the fun and maybe even give it a go now that the line has thinned out. Excited, she went ahead and stood in line, waiting in anticipation for her turn.

"Hey, can you do me a favor?"

Amy is startled when someone grabs her shoulder from behind. She whirls around to see the same blue hedgehog from earlier. "M-My bad! I didn't mean to scare you." He apologizes, retreating his hand back to his side. "Are you okay?"

"Ye-Yeah, I-I'm fine," Amy stammers as she straightens up again. She cleared her throat, not wanting her nerves to get the best of her, and sent him a coy smile. "Sorry about that. I was just in a bit of a daze. A-Anyway, what's the favor you're asking?"

The stranger was relieved she wasn't upset with him but still found himself at fault. "Again, I'm sorry for shocking you there," He says sheepishly. "I was just wondering, since I'm next after you, if you can help me grab the treats once the piñata breaks. But, you don't have to--"

"Oh, I don't mind."

"Really!?"

"Yup! I can help!"

"Thanks!" The blue hedgehog beamed. He noticed it was Amy's turn, so he grabbed her handbag and spun her around to face the somewhat surviving but almost in a state of breaking piñata. "You're up! I'll take care of your purse. Good luck!" He squeezes her shoulders before lightly pushing her forward.

With the piñata buster stick in hand, Amy was blindfolded and twirled three times. Guests cheered her on and gave misdirections as she began swinging. In between the shouting, Amy can hear the guy loudly praise her whenever she lands a couple of whacks. It made her blush, though she didn't know why...

Okay, she won't lie. He's a very good-looking man. His sleek black suit hugs his slim body nicely; his perfectly pressed white button-up shirt makes him look sharp and professional. He has such an amazing aura of confidence, which can make anyone swoon. Not to forget his windswept quills and bold emerald green eyes that are just as mesmerizing as his smile.

So what if she finds him handsome? He's literally the epitome of perfection! But that doesn't mean she gained a crush on him! How can she when they barely know each other?

Once her time was up, it was the stranger's turn, and he did not disappoint. His swings were wild, yet have a good aim in delivering blows. He hits the piñata one more time, and it bursts. Colorful confetti, candies, packs of gum, lip balms, gift cards, cash, and mini bottles of booze flew everywhere as people rushed onto the astroturf lawn to gather as many prizes as they could collect.

Amy uses her purse to store all the goodies she grabbed while shielding them from prying fingers. She slowly stood up and tried to leave the crowd, but there were too many blocking her path. She then spots the familiar blue hedgehog shoving his way toward her direction. When he finally reaches her side, he takes her hand and helps guide them both out of the frenzy and to an open space.

"Can't you believe it! They stole my fucking hat!" He shouts in disbelief while also cracking up with laughter. "It's the only hat that fits my head."

"Well, I hope these will make you feel better," Amy giggles, showing him her bag full of gifts. The stranger chuckles before digging through the contents. He pulls out a lollipop, unwraps it, and pops it into his mouth. "Thanks for the favor, by the way. I appreciate it," He tells her.

"Hehe, any time...uhh..." The pink hedgehog trails off as she suddenly realizes they haven't introduced themselves yet. "Sorry, but what's your name?"

He removes the lollipop from his mouth and flashes a toothy grin. "The name's Sonic," He says. "And yours?"

"Mine's Amy," She replied. "Nice to meet you."

Sonic nods, his smile never fading. "So Amy, do you want to go to the roof terrace? It has a pretty nice view, and we can talk there if you'd like." He suggested, jerking a thumb over his shoulder. Amy perks up instantly at the idea.

'This is it! Take his offer!' She urged herself, mentally freaking out in excitement. 'Go for it!'

"Sure! Sounds good to me," She agreed, restraining her eagerness from showing on her face. "Cool," Sonic responded as he led the two of them upstairs to the roof terrace. Meanwhile, Amy's head swirls with topics that could be entertaining to discuss.

Upon arriving there, they approached the glass railings and shivered at the cold winter air hitting their skin. Sonic rests his arms on the iron bannister, still sucking on his lollipop, while Amy stands beside him, her hands clasped together in front of her. Both observed the beach scenery below them, admiring the view of the moonlit ocean until Sonic spoke up again.

"I haven't seen you around at work before. Are you new?"

"Yeah. I started working here a month ago," Amy answered, snapping her attention back to him. "I'm a marketing specialist. What about you?"

"Brand manager," He replied nonchalantly, biting his candy into small pieces. Amy's jaw dropped at hearing this information.

She's talking to one of her bosses in her department! The one who was out on a business trip with his team when she first came to work there. And now, he's here, chilling with her? She can't mess this up!

Regaining her composure, Amy put on a smile. "Wow, that's impressive! Must be hard work," She remarked.

"Thanks. It can get tough and stressful at times, but I enjoy it. It pays well too, so I get to spoil my little bro every once in a while." Sonic boasted proudly, stuffing the lollipop stick into his pocket. Amy gasps. "You have a little brother!?" She asked, surprised.

"Uh-huh! His name is Tails, and he's 16 years old. I raised him since he was a kit." Sonic grinned while explaining. He straightens up, his eyes shining with pride. "We may not be blood-related or the same species, but I still consider him as family. He is important to me and looks up to me as his big brother," His face softened.

Amy stares at him in awe, amazed by how much he loves his little brother. "That's so cute!" She gushes. "And just where is he?"

Sonic looks away, his expression turning into worry. "He's with his friends at another party he wanted to go to," He said. "Wish he was here, but I don't want to come off as overprotective. So I've been running around, doing the party preparations to distract myself from thinking about Tails."

He feels her rub his back comfortingly. "Hey there," She murmured. "I'm sure he's okay. Besides, if Tails ever needs you, he knows where to find you and call you." She gave him a reassuring smile.

"Geez, am I gonna be thanking you for the rest of the night?" Sonic teased, lightening up a little. Amy lets out a giggle and shakes her head. "Actually, I should be the one thanking you instead," She says sincerely. "I needed a laugh so badly, and it was perfect timing when you came along."

"I can tell. You looked tensed back then," Sonic acknowledged her earlier despondent mood. He pondered what was bothering her before confronting her. It wasn't likely for him to see someone downcasted during the new year celebration since everyone was in high spirits. That was what made him talk to her, hoping to help take her mind off whatever was troubling her.

By the mention of her former behavior, he notices her demeanor has shifted drastically. Her eyes droop, her shoulders slump, and her eyebrows furrowed as she folds her arms across her chest. "E-Eh... Y-Yeah. I got ditched. A-and since I don't know anybody here, I kinda felt like an idiot for believing I can make f-friends easily w-without my shyness getting in the way."

The sound of her quavering voice brought Sonic to frown. He didn't like seeing her like this, so dejected and upset. "Amy, I understand that it can be uncomfortable leaving your comfort zone and being social with people, especially when you're new to a place, but..." The hedgehog lifts her chin and looks at her face closely. He can detect her anxiety, sadness, and self-consciousness all at one glance. His eyes soften with concern, and he places both his hands on her shoulders, clenching them gently.

"But you'll be okay. I can help you adjust!" Sonic assures her in an encouraging tone. "I can show you around, introduce you to other people, and help you build confidence; I'll do everything I can to make this an enjoyable experience because we are friends. Because I like spending time with you, Amy."

"Oh, Sonic," Amy's mouth trembles slightly as tears pool in her hopeful eyes. "Why are you so awesome!?" She cried, throwing her arms around him tightly. Sonic chuckles lightly and pats her head tenderly.

As they part from the hug, Amy wipes away her tears with the back of her hand, taking a moment to recover herself before she looks up at him. "Sorry. It's just... I wish Big could be like you," She sniffled. "He looked like such a nice fellow, but he made a fake excuse and left me behind."

"Wait. Big? You came here with Big?"

"... Yes,"

"The giant purple cat? The one that carries his pet frog around?"

"Pet frog? Wasn't that a stuffed animal that made noises?"

"You thought Froggy was a toy frog?!" Sonic snickered.

"Well, yes! I mean, how else would I know? Big often vanishes into thin air." Amy admitted, confusion clear on her face. Despite his large size, she somehow loses him at work but later gets found by him.

"That's because Big has a habit of searching for Froggy whenever he runs off," Sonic elaborated as he leaned his back against the railing. "We help him look for the little guy around the office sometimes, but the two always return eventually. He probably forgot to tell you, considering he's constantly on the move."

"Oh. That makes sense then," Amy blushes, embarrassed by her mistake. So it was all a misunderstanding after all... Ah! Now, she feels guilty for doubting Big!

"Anyway, he'll come back with Froggy anytime soon," said Sonic. He pushes himself away from the railing and slings an arm over her shoulder. "In the meantime, we can go ahead and meet up with my friends," He suggested as he headed toward the exit while dragging her along. "I'm sure you're going to fit right into the group once they get to know you better. More when they see how lovely you dressed up tonight."

The pink hedgehog's cheeks flush red at his words as she checks out her outfit. Wearing a rose-gold one-shoulder sequin dress with a bishop sleeve and black heels, her quills are done in a low bun held together by a pearl comb. Her bangs are arched, and a few stray strands frame her face. Amy felt flattered at the compliment Sonic had just given her.

For the past hour or so, Amy's been introduced to many of Sonic's friends and acquaintances. They all have interesting things to say about each other and included her in the conversation on more than one occasion. She feels so warmly welcomed by them that her initial awkwardness has subsided, and she slowly becomes much giddier and more open.

At some point, Amy took Sonic out on the dancefloor. She does not know where she got the courage from, but she didn't care. Getting to see his surprised yet amused expression was enough to not only send sparks flying through her body but also give her confidence. He would take her hand, twirling or dipping her into his arms. Song after song, they danced and laughed together until they were both breathless and worn out.

Amy couldn't count how many times she looked back at Sonic only to catch him staring at her. He would share a fond smile with her before averting his gaze and continuing his conversation with someone else. It filled her stomach with butterflies and made her feel tingly inside. She tried not to let her imagination run wild because he was probably only staring at her as a friend, but she couldn't help herself from thinking otherwise.

'Get a grip, girl!' She scolds herself inwardly. The last thing she wanted was for Sonic to be aware of her attraction toward him. Shooing away her thoughts, Amy returned to doodling in the air with her sparkler until it ran out.

She, Sonic, and a few of their friends are currently gathered at the beach to watch the fireworks displays. There are 5 minutes left until midnight, and everyone is waiting eagerly for the big event. But for now, they're taking pictures and goofing around with each other.

"Yo, Amy!" Sonic calls out as he approaches her from behind. Amy turns around and gasps, smiling widely upon seeing the familiar faces. "Look who I found back at the party," Sonic grinned, pointing at the man beside him.

"Big!"

"Amy!"

RIBBIT!

Big lifts Amy up as they hug, trying not to crush the pink hedgehog in his arms. He sets her down on the sand and beams at her. "Amy, I'm super-duper happy to see you!" He says with glee. "I've been looking for you."

"Oh, Big! I'm so sorry I wasn't at the house. I thought you ditched me," Amy apologizes.

"It's okay," He pets her head lightly. "I'm sorry too for leaving you alone. I didn't mean to."

"It's alright!" She replies. "I just didn't know about the Froggy situation." She glances at the little amphibian sitting on Big's head and then over to the blue hedgehog waiting next to them. "Still, Sonic told me everything and has been great company," She adds.

"Yep! We were having a blast!" Sonic chimes in, placing a hand on Amy's shoulder. He makes eye contact with her and shoots her a wink. "There hasn't been a moment of boredom between us. Isn't that right, Ames?"

Amy blushes but hums affirmatively, shyly shifting her gaze elsewhere. Darn it! He's making her feel so special!

"Can I ask you two something?" Big asks, breaking into their conversation. "Sure, what's up?" Sonic diverts his attention away from Amy and looks at the purple cat with curiosity. But before Big could continue, people at the beach loudly began counting down.

"FIVE! FOUR! THREE! TWO! ONE! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!" Everyone erupts in celebration as the fireworks explode above them in bright colors. Hugs were shared, and wishes for a good year were exchanged with one another as Amy was over the moon to be with amazing people she had met for this holiday. She's glad she agreed to go to the party.

"No way!" Sonic says aloud. "Is that my hat?!"

Amy follows his eyesight and spots a green woodpecker on the beach shoreline. He definitely has Sonic's new years' hat, mindlessly tossing it into the air and carelessly soaking it wet. "It is! How are you going to get it back?" She questioned him.

"With an epic beatdown, that's how!" He jokingly declares. He cuffs his pants up, takes off his blazer, and removes his shoes and socks. "Bean won't get away with stealing from me. I've got a plan."

"Be careful, though. You might fall in," She warned him in a concerned voice.

"Don't worry, Amy. I'll be fine," Sonic assured her, giving her a warm smile. He then plants a chaste kiss on her cheek and pats Big back. "I'll see you two later," He tells them before running after Bean at the edge of the water.

Amy's hand instinctively touches her cheek at the sudden kiss, lingering there for quite a while as she watches the retreating figure of Sonic. Her face is red, her ears are burning, and her cheeks feel like they are on fire. She can hear her accelerating heart and feel her knees go weak.

"I think Sonic likes you," Big says, breaking her trance.

"W-What! N-No!" Amy stutters, shaking her head frantically. "T-That was just an innocent kiss! We are just friends! Nothing more!" She insisted.

They just met recently, and she's definitely looking forward to seeing him and the others at work again. But why did she get butterflies over a small kiss? That doesn't mean anything in any way, right? Sonic's just being friendly...

Ughh! She doesn't even know what to think anymore.

"Okay, Amy. If you say so," said Big as he pets her head once more. He was a bit unconvinced, but he didn't push it any further. Only Amy knows what she actually feels about Sonic.

"Want me to tell you how I found Froggy?" He then asks. Amy nods in reply, relieved that he changed the subject. Big placed Froggy on the sand and allowed him to hop beside the two as they strolled along the beach.

Though Amy may not know what the new year will hold for her or the people she will grow closer with, it looks promising.