Ning Chu still didn’t like alcohol—mostly because she hated the taste and worried about what might happen if she got drunk. But tonight was Wen Yang’s birthday, and the gathering included his trustworthy dormmates and her own boyfriend, who had long since "devoured" her completely and doted on her endlessly. A few drinks wouldn’t hurt.

The cocktails were surprisingly easy to drink, more like flavored beverages with a hint of alcohol. She didn’t mind them at first, but the high alcohol content quickly got to her. After just a few glasses, her cheeks turned a bright shade of red, and …