Heartstrings | Johnny Lawrence x (y/n) | 1984 |

| 19 | Tipsy

The next morning, the news spread like wildfire across the school. Whispers and curious glances followed you and Johnny wherever you went. The Cobras rallied around you both, grinning and teasing Johnny about finally "making it official." Johnny wore it with pride, staying close by your side, his hand either at your waist or intertwined with yours, ignoring the glares from students passing by, especially from the Eagles. Stephanie and her crew gave you both the dirtiest of looks, but Johnny smirked right back, wrapping an arm around you as if daring them to make a move. Ali, lingering nearby with an irritated look, rolled her eyes and crossed her arms, but you felt nothing but confidence by Johnny's side.

At lunch, the Cobras were ready to make it a celebration. Bobby clapped Johnny on the back, grinning. "Finally! Took you long enough," he teased, causing Johnny to chuckle as he sat down beside you.

"About time we stopped watching you two dance around each other," Tommy laughed. "Makes sense we're the toughest crew at school; we needed a power couple to match."

The Eagles, watching from across the courtyard, muttered and shot glares in your direction, but their resentment only fueled Johnny's confidence. He leaned closer, whispering, "Let them stare. They're just mad they'll never know what this feels like." The day felt surreal, as though you and Johnny were in your own world, each glance from the Eagles barely even registering. You both knew this was exactly what you wanted, and there was no one who could take that away.

After school, Johnny walked you home, a proud grin on his face. You stopped by his house first, where his mom, Laura, met you both with a warm, knowing smile. "Well, it's official, huh?" she said, her voice filled with pride. She gave you a big hug and Johnny a little nudge, teasing him about finally making a move.

Once you reached your house, your parents were equally delighted, and your younger brother practically jumped with excitement, muttering how he "totally saw it coming." Even your older sister gave a nod of approval, teasing you about how Johnny practically lived here anyway.

That night, knowing you had each other and the support of your families, felt perfect.

That evening, Bobby's party was in full swing, the loud bass vibrating through the house as you arrived with Johnny by your side. The whole school seemed to be there, mingling in the packed rooms and spilling out into the backyard. The Eagles stood near the door, throwing pointed looks in your direction, but you barely noticed, feeling a surge of confidence as Johnny's hand tightened around yours.

Your black dress hugged every curve, and with your hair and makeup done just right, you knew you looked good — Johnny's lingering glances were proof enough. He led you inside, keeping close as you maneuvered through the crowd, but it didn't take long before you both got swept into the energy of the party.

After a while, you started loosening up, taking a drink to join in the fun. The music pulsed around you, and soon enough, you found yourself on the dance floor, moving to the beat with confidence that only a few drinks could bring. You let the music take over, swaying and laughing, your eyes bright and carefree.

Johnny watched, his gaze intense, jaw tightening every time he caught a guy staring at you just a bit too long. He leaned back against the wall, crossing his arms, trying to remind himself that he didn't need to be jealous. But seeing you looking so good, enjoying yourself in that stunning dress, was driving him crazy. Guys kept glancing your way, some whispering to each other as their eyes lingered a little too long, and he felt a possessive edge simmering just beneath the surface.

A particularly bold guy passed by and shot you a grin, clearly interested, and Johnny had enough. He walked over, slipping his arm around your waist and pulling you close, a low growl in his voice. "Mind if I cut in?" he said, shooting the guy a glare that sent him backing off immediately.