The Frog and The Beast

The Frog Chapter 4

As we stepped back into the vibrant atmosphere of the dance, all eyes turned to Minerva, and I couldn't help but share the same reaction as everyone else. Wide-eyed and mouth agape, they swarmed around her, showering her with compliments about how incredible she looked. In just one night, she had transformed from one of the witches of Fairy Tail Academy to one of the most popular girls in school. And she knew it. She reveled in the attention, barely acknowledging my presence.

Deciding to let her bask in her moment, I made my way to the punch bowl for a drink. There, I was greeted by Cana, Lucy's best friend, who wore a light-blue dress similar in style to Lucy's but less sparkly.

"Nice dress," I said.

"Thanks! Nice suit," she replied, eyeing my scarf. "It's a nice change from the usual tie."

"Where's Lucy?"

"In the bathroom, checking her makeup for like the twentieth time," she chuckled. "She really wants to look her best tonight. After all, it's her crowning moment—literally."

"I don't get what the big deal is about the whole spring court thing. It's just for one night."

"Actually, in Lucy's case, it's for two years. Fiore started this tradition years ago where the spring princess becomes the town's princess for two years, becoming the face of the community. She makes appearances at events like store openings, garden parties, and picnics."

"And let me guess, if Lucy wins, it'll be great for her dad's career?"

"Exactly. That's why her dad wants her to win, but her reasons run deeper than that."

"Lucy? Deep? That's about as deep as a puddle. So, on a different note, where's your date?"

"Didn't have one. Went solo."

"Well, my date seems to have forgotten about me, so do you want to dance?"

"Sure."

We set our punch glasses down and stepped onto the dance floor, swaying our hips while we talked. I always liked Cana; she was popular yet stayed true to herself. People like that are rare, especially in a private school. We chatted and laughed, enjoying ourselves, until someone grabbed my shoulder and jerked me back. I initially thought it was a jock wanting to cut in, but to my surprise, it was Minerva. I never imagined a girl could have such a powerful grip.

"Why are you dancing with her?" she demanded. "You're supposed to be dancing with me!"

"You were busy," I replied. "But if you want to dance, let's dance."

"That's not the point! Do you know how stupid I looked when everyone saw my date dancing with another girl?"

"It was just a dance."

Minerva's eyes narrowed, frustration radiating off her. "Just a dance?" she repeated incredulously. "You think it was just a dance? This isn't just about having fun; it's about image and who I'm seen with. I thought you understood that."

I took a deep breath, trying to keep my cool amidst her intensity. "I get that it matters to you, but you were surrounded by people fawning over you. I figured you'd want to soak that in, not worry about me. I didn't think it would be a big deal."

Minerva crossed her arms, her expression softening just a fraction. "It is a big deal to me. I need you to be there for me, not off dancing with someone else. Can't you see how that looks?"

"Okay, I get it," I replied, trying to understand her perspective. "But you have to give me a little credit. I didn't mean to upset you. If you want to dance, let's do it."