A SKY FULL OF STARS

chapter thirteen, 1979

Lyla couldn't help the smile that made her cheeks ache, everything was finally perfect. She couldn't stop thinking of Gibsie, and how happy she was.

It was October 31st, Lyla's favorite day of the year, halloween.

She sat around Claire Biggs bedroom, even though she wasn't close with the girl, she was there for Shan.

The girls were all giddy as they put on their costumes.

Shannon was wearing a vintage white dress, going as Juliet from the classic play. Claire was wearing a tiny pink and black dress, going for the look of a mouse. Lizzie Young wore a simple black skirt and top with fishnet tights, saying she was a cat.

Lyla pulled on her short black dress, putting on her red hood. Gibsie had come up with the idea that they could go as little red riding hood and the big bad wolf. Lyla grabbed her woven basket.

Lyla felt awkward as Claire kept glancing at her, Lyla looked over at her expectantly.

Claire raised a brow at Lyla, "Heard about you and Gibsie. Nice catch chickie."

Lyla blushed, she knew Claire didn't like her, so she was skeptical.

Lyla just nods, trying to get Claire to drop it.

"Although I am a bit surprised, always thought he was gonna end up with someone else." Claire scoffed, almost bitterly.

Lyla shrugged, having a random surge of confidence. "Like you?"

Claire's cheek flushed and she glared at Lyla, "Watch it."

Lizzie rolled her eyes and Shannon cleared her throat quietly, "Guys don't fight."

Lyla shook her head softly, "Sorry Shan. I'm gonna go wait downstairs for Gibs."

Claire seemed to bite her cheek and keep quiet, which Lyla was quite grateful for.

Lyla pulled on her black doc marten boots as she sat down on the Biggs's couch. She knew Gibsie lived very close by, so he wouldn't be long.

She heard loud scuffling down the hallway, and Lyla jumped at the abrupt noise.

She saw a glimpse of red hair that she recognized as her friend Katie Wilmot, followed by Hughie Biggs, Claire's older brother.

She heard them arguing, and she felt awkward. She watched as Katie stumbled out into the living room, her eyes puffy from crying.

Lyla glanced at them both, not saying anything.

Hughie seemed to notice her, "Lyla." He nodded politely, he seemed to be embarrassed that she had caught them arguing.

Lyla ignored him, focusing on Katie. "Katie are you okay?" She asked worried.

Katie sniffled, nodding. "Yeah Lyla." She gave a faux smile, "Happy halloween."

Katie rushed out the door, ignoring the way Hughie rushed after her.

Lylas eyes widened, but she stayed out of it. The last thing she needed was to get into more drama.

She heard a knock at the door, so she slowly went to investigate. She peered through the peek hole and sighed in relief upon seeing Gibsie.

He had a creepy wolf mask on, which was expected. The whole costume thing had been his idea in the first place.

He laughed loudly opening the door, pretending to howl. Lyla giggled as well, letting him pick her up for a hug.

He squeezed her before putting her down, "Ready?" He asks while holding out a hand.