Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
"I already told you, Rory, I'm not going to that stupid dance," Ronnie said, flopping onto the couch like the sheer suggestion had drained her soul.
"You've told me a million times, but I refuse to accept it," Rory countered, crossing her arms.
The Chilton winter formal was the hot topic of the week, but it was about the last way Ronnie wanted to spend her Saturday night. The thought of snobby rich kids parading around, pretending to be royalty, made her physically cringe. Besides, her only two Chilton allies weren't going either—Carly had flat-out refused ("No way I'm wasting a perfectly good Saturday on that") and Josh was busy at some family charity event.
"Why?" Rory demanded. "If this were Stars Hollow High, you'd be the one dragging me to the dance."
"Stars Hollow High is different," Ronnie said. "Stars Hollow High had normal people. Chilton has... well, Chilton people. I already endure them five days a week. Excuse me for not wanting to sacrifice my weekend, too."
"Brooke throws parties every weekend. I'm sure you could miss one," Rory argued, clearly trying to corner her into admitting defeat.
"This one's different. It's her birthday," Ronnie said, raising an eyebrow as if that should've been obvious.
Rory rolled her eyes dramatically. "Oh, yes, because a high school party full of drunk jocks and bad music is so much more meaningful."
"Just because you don't like my priorities doesn't make you better than me," Ronnie snapped, sitting up straighter now.
"Okay, girls," Lorelai interrupted, stepping between them before things escalated. "Rory's going to the dance. Ronnie's going to the party. No drinking—both of you." She turned to Ronnie specifically. "Especially you."
"Mom, I'm not exactly known for my wild side," Ronnie said dryly. "I'll manage to stay away from the booze."
Later that evening, at the Gilmore house, Emily was making her rounds to ensure Rory looked perfect for the dance. Somehow, this also involved following Ronnie around and giving unsolicited advice.
"I can't believe you're not going to your school dance, Veronica," Emily said, exasperated. "These dances are a cornerstone of the high school experience. I'm sure that lovely Thompson boy would've been thrilled to take you."
Ronnie sighed. "Grandma, I've told you already—my best friend's having a birthday party. It's important."
The knock at the door saved her from further commentary. Rory dashed for it, earning a sharp reprimand from Emily.
"A lady does not run to a gentleman!" Emily scolded, following her into the foyer.
But when Rory opened the door, it wasn't Dean—it was Matt and his little brother, Charlie.
