Beyond The Classroom

Intense Birthday Bash.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over the backyard, guests began to arrive at Victoria's house for the highly anticipated birthday bash. The fairy lights twinkled in the trees, the lanterns around the pool glowed softly, and the inflatable unicorn floated serenely in the water. Music pumped through the speakers, setting the perfect party atmosphere.

Victoria stood by the entrance, greeting her friends with hugs and laughter. Eric and Mia were already mingling, making sure everyone felt welcome and encouraging them to dive into the snacks and drinks.

'Happy birthday, Vic!' a chorus of voices shouted as more friends arrived.

'Thanks, everyone! Let's make this a night to remember!' Victoria called back, grinning from ear to ear.

The party quickly filled with laughter and the sound of happy chatter. People were dancing on the makeshift dance floor, splashing in the pool, and lounging in the cozy seating areas. The Photo Booth was a hit, with guests posing with the life size cutout of Victoria and an assortment of silly props.

'Vic, come dance!' Mia called, grabbing Victoria's hand and pulling her onto the dance floor.

Eric joined them, and the three friends danced together, their moves growing more ridiculous and energetic with each song. Victoria felt a rush of happiness as she twirled under the disco ball, the lights reflecting off the water and casting a magical glow over everything.

'This is amazing!' Victoria shouted over the music.

'Told you we'd make it unforgettable!' Eric replied, doing an exaggerated dance move that made them all burst out laughing.

As the night went on, the party only got wilder. People were cannonballing into the pool, sending huge splashes everywhere. The confetti cannons went off sporadically, showering everyone in colourful paper. The snack table was constantly surrounded by hungry partygoers, and the punch bowl needed refilling multiple times.

Victoria found herself surrounded by her closest friends, feeling a sense of euphoria that only comes from being with people who truly care about you. She danced with Mia and Eric, laughing so hard her sides hurt.

At one point, they all gathered around the pool, cheering on those brave enough to take a leap into the water. Eric, ever the showman, did a dramatic dive, sending a wave of water over the edge and soaking the onlookers.

'You're insane!' Victoria shouted, wiping water from her face.

'Anything for the birthday girl!' Eric replied, climbing out of the pool, dripping wet but grinning from ear to ear.

As Victoria looked around, her heart swelled with gratitude. This was exactly how she'd imagined her 18th birthday, surrounded by friends, having the time of her life. She felt a tap on her shoulder and turned to see Mia holding out a slice of birthday cake.

'Happy birthday, Vic.' Mia said, handing her the cake.

Victoria took a bite, savouring the sweetness. 'Thanks, Mia. This is perfect.'

They continued dancing, the music getting louder and the energy of the party rising with every beat. Victoria was in the middle of a dance off with Eric when something caught her eye. Behind a small tree in the backyard, she spotted a familiar figure. It was Mr Reed, trying to stay hidden but failing miserably.

Victoria's heart skipped a beat. What was he doing here? She tried to focus on the dance off, but her mind kept drifting back to Mr Reed lurking behind the tree.

'Vic, are you okay?' Mia asked, noticing her distraction.

'Yeah, I'm fine.' Victoria replied, forcing a smile. 'Just thought I saw something.'

As the song changed, Victoria decided to ignore it and keep enjoying her party. She danced with her friends, laughing and spinning under the lights. The crowd around her seemed to pulse with energy, everyone lost in the music and the moment.

Suddenly, she felt a hand grab her arm. She turned, expecting to see Eric or Mia, but instead, she found herself face to face with Mr Reed.

'Alec?' Victoria whispered, her heart racing.

'Victoria, I needed to see you.' he said, his grip firm but not painful.

Before she could respond, he started leading her away from the dance floor, towards the shadows at the edge of the backyard. The music and laughter faded into the background as she followed him, her mind spinning with questions and confusion.