Crush - Paige Bueckers

10 - The Last Dance

Paige

*Flashback* (Senior Prom—before the big fight)

Senior prom is supposed to be the peak of high school—a night of enchantment and endless memories. For everyone else, it seems like a dream come true. For me, it's a tightrope walk, balancing on the edge of my own fears and insecurities.

As I step into the gym, I'm immediately struck by how it's been transformed into an enchanting ballroom. Strands of fairy lights cascade from the ceiling, casting a soft, twinkling glow over everything. The floor is covered with a shimmering gold and silver overlay, reflecting the lights and creating a magical sparkle. Tables adorned with white tablecloths, each with a flickering candle in the center, are scattered around the perimeter, offering a quieter escape from the lively center of activity. The music is lively, pumping out upbeat songs that get everyone's energy flowing. The air is thick with laughter and excited chatter. In the midst of it all, I'm surrounded by Chris, Hannah, Riya, and Violet, but despite the exciting atmosphere, my focus is entirely on her.

Tonight, Violet is the epitome of beauty. Her emerald green dress is nothing short of stunning, hugging her figure in all the right places and falling in soft, graceful folds. The color complements her hazel eyes, making them sparkle even more in the ambient light. Her dark hair is styled in gentle waves that cascade down her back. She's glowing with excitement and joy, and even though I try to blend into the background, my attention is relentlessly drawn to her.

"Paige, come on!" Violet calls out, her voice bright with enthusiasm. She's standing near the dance floor, her hand outstretched in invitation. "Let's dance!"

I force a smile and nod, feeling a twist of anxiety in my stomach. "Yeah, sure. I'll be there in a minute."

The dance floor is alive with energy. Chris and Hannah are caught up in their own world, spinning and laughing with abandon. Riya is nearby, chatting animatedly with a couple of other friends. I watch as they all enjoy themselves, their happiness noticeable. The crowd moves in a swirl of colors and lights, but I can't tear my eyes away from Violet. She's a beacon of light in a sea of shimmering gowns and tuxedos. Her dress sparkles as she moves, and it makes my heart race even faster.

The music transitions to a slow, romantic song. Couples start pulling each other close, and the atmosphere becomes more intimate. I see Violet glance at me, her expression a mixture of hope and hesitation.

"Do you want to dance?" she asks, her voice soft and inviting. Her hand extends toward mine, and I can feel the warmth radiating from her touch.

My heart skips a beat as I take her hand. The world around us seems to blur, and all I can focus on is the feeling of her fingers intertwined with mine. Her body is warm and close against mine, and I'm deeply aware of every little detail—the soft brush of her dress against my legs, the gentle way her hand rests on my back. It's perfect, but the fear gnaws at me.

"This song is beautiful," Violet says, her voice a gentle murmur as she looks up at me. Her eyes search mine, seeking something more.

"It is," I reply, trying to keep my voice steady. "It's... really nice."

We move together, swaying to the rhythm of the music. The closeness between us feels both intimate and overwhelming. Violet's hand slides from mine to rest on my lower back. I can feel the heat from her body through the fabric of her dress, and it makes my heart race even more.

My hands rest on her waist. I feel the curves of her body, and it makes me wonder what is hidden beneath her dress. But I quickly push that thought away, knowing that I will never see any of it.