Hearts in Bloom

Chapter 10

The night had finally arrived. November 15th, the day everyone had been talking about for months. Aria stood in front of her mirror, smoothing down the elegant black gown that Mia had helped her pick out weeks ago. The fabric shimmered with every movement, hugging her frame just right. She adjusted the small diamond pendant around her neck, a gift from her mother, and took one last look in the mirror.

Her phone buzzed on the bed, snapping her out of her thoughts. She saw a message from Tobias:
“I’m outside. Come down when you are ready.”

Her heart fluttered. Tobias had always been her rock, her best friend, but tonight felt different. There was an energy in the air that she couldn’t quite place. It wasn’t just prom night—it was something more.

Taking a deep breath, she grabbed her purse and made her way downstairs. Her parents had left for a dinner party, so the house was quiet, except for the thudding of her own heartbeat.

When she opened the door, Tobias stood there, leaning casually against his car.

The sight of him made her breath hitch. His usually messy hair was neatly styled, and he wore a perfectly tailored black suit that matched her dress. But what really got her was the way he looked at her—his eyes widened, and for a moment, he seemed completely lost for words.

“Wow,” he finally managed, his voice barely a whisper. “You look… stunning.”

Aria felt a warmth creeping up her neck and into her cheeks. “You don’t look too bad yourself,” she replied with a small smile, trying to ignore how fast her heart was racing.

As she stepped closer to him, she noticed something familiar—Tobias’s ears were slowly turning red. They always did that when he was nervous or embarrassed or around her, but it made her smile. Even tonight, when he looked so confident and put together, there was still that trace of vulnerability.

He cleared his throat, offering his hand. “Shall we?”

Her fingers brushed against his as she took his hand, and she felt a little spark between them. Aria’s breath caught again, but she pushed it aside. This was Tobias, her best friend. Nothing more.

Right?

---

The gym had been transformed. Twinkling fairy lights hung from the ceiling, casting a magical glow over the room. The soft sounds of chatter, laughter, and music filled the space as couples danced and groups of friends gathered for photos. The prom was everything Aria had hoped for.

Mia rushed over as soon as they arrived, practically bouncing with excitement. “You guys look perfect! Oh my God, Tobias, Aria—you match! Was this planned?” she gushed, giving them both a wide smile.

Tobias chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. “Uh, yeah. We kind of planned.” he admitted, casting a quick glance at Aria.

The night passed in a blur of laughter, dancing, and photos. But through it all, Tobias kept stealing glances at Aria, his feelings for her growing stronger with each passing moment. His plan for tonight was simple: confess. He was going to tell her hus feelings qhich he kept hidden all these years.

After what felt like forever, the music shifted, and the DJ announced the first slow dance of the night. Tobias’s heart pounded as he turned to Aria.

“Dance with me?” he asked, his voice softer now, a little nervous.

Aria hesitated for a moment, but then she smiled. “Sure.”

As they made their way to the dance floor, Tobias placed his hand gently on her waist. Aria’s hand rested lightly on his shoulder, and the warmth of his touch sent a small shiver down her spine. The music played softly in the background, but for Tobias, it was just him and Aria.