Prom

"Designer boy went with her??"
Everyone's heads snapped around to look at the couple awkwardly gyrating on the dance floor. She was trying her hardest to be... well something she wasn't. And he just looked pained and embarrassed. My friend turned and looked at me.
"You should totally try to steal him."
"What? I came with someone."
"Yeah but you came as friends right? I mean come on- the new guy is perfect for you- he's rich, likes designer clothing, sings, is sensitive-"
"Ok ok I know I joked about him being 'perfect' for me- but I don't think that qualifies for me to steal him from his prom date. I mean he might actually like her."
The statement was met with chuckles. We all glanced back at the dance floor. He was removing her hands from him.
"Face it- the only reason he went with her is so he could get into the upper classman prom. And she probably tried to smother him in her granny vests."
"Do it! He could be your summer romance!"
"Ummm..."
I was so unsure. After all the other horribly failed relationships I had in high school, a new short term- no strings attached fling might be a nice change. I mean I was leaving for school in a few months. How bad could it be?
"So... you gonna do it?"
"Who's coming with me?"
My friends whooped and scrapped their chairs back to join me as I made my way to the dance floor. It was time for me to put on my rare mask of confidence. I didn't want to let my friends down in their fun.
We made a bee line for them and immediately he looked revealed to have some other company. It only took a couple of dances and we could tell he was hooked. He attempted to teach me salsa and his date ran off to sulk by the punch bowl. The slow dances started and my friends just melted away- patting me on the back for a job well done. As we did our awkward slow dance shuffle he started to whisper to me.
"Thank you so much for saving me. I really didn't want to go with her- but she started to throw a fit when I tried to say no."
"I figured as much."
"But I have to say- you look amazing."
"Oh thanks..."
He stopped dancing and pulled me close for emphasis.
"Look I really like you. Can we hang out more at post prom? I don't want to leave your side. And I'd love to go out with you sometime."
I looked out to the sides of the dance floor. I saw my friends smiling and winking at me. And then I saw his abandoned date with tears falling down her face with her one friend glaring at me. He followed my gaze.
"Oh. Don't worry about her. I would have ditched her soon anyway. So what do you say?"
I shut my eyes and laid my head on his shoulder and tried not to think about her mascara stained face.
"Sure. Lets do it."

One Night

I tiptoed into the back of the theater, not wanting to disrupt the meeting on stage. I settled into the front row and placed the costumes on the chair next to me. Instantly I scanned the group on stage. Our eyes met and he winked. I smiled and quickly looked away- hoping no one had noticed. I was revealed when my friend beckoned me to join her in the backstage area. It was becoming hard not to stare at him.

Of course he found me as soon as he was free.
"Hey babe. How are you doing? You look lovely."
"Um thanks. I'm alright! Finally found the rest of the outfits. Still have a bit of a paper to work on after this..."
His expression made it clear he had something to tell me.
"Ok- whats up?"
"I decided I'm going to break up with *******."
I gasped. We had talked about this. But I never thought he would ever... I mean I was leaving soon. Was he really that serious about...?
"I just can't stop thinking about you" He stepped closer "And I know its not fair to her. But I think we have a chance. When you get back- I really think we have... a future."
I didn't know what to say. It was the words I had wanted to hear from him since day one. Was I dreaming?
"You... are you sure? I mean... of course I'm happy! But are you making the right decision?"
"Yes I know I am. I want you luv. I'm going to do it tonight."
The director called for him. He pulled me into a quick hug and swaggered off. My mind was still reeling.

I woke up the next morning to a text message.
Hey babe. She was asleep when I got out so didn't call her. But maybe you're right. I should think it over some more. Love you.
Fuck that change of heart.