Sophie's Life

Chapter 27: The Promposal

As the school day draws to a close, I linger in the hallway, letting the bustling crowd thin out. I can't avoid James forever. Part of me still feels betrayed, but there's this gnawing need to hear his side of the story. Maybe it's foolish, but I want closure.

Just as I start to head for the door, I see James coming down the hall. He notices me and pauses, his expression torn between guilt and hope.

"Sophie..." he starts, voice soft. "Can we talk?"

I nod, and we make our way to an empty classroom. Sitting across from him, I steel myself, determined not to fall apart again.

"I know I messed up," he begins, his voice barely above a whisper. "I didn't realize how much it would hurt you. Ayla... it just happened, and it wasn't right. I'm sorry."

I clench my fists, steadying my breath. "I just don't get it, James. You knew how I felt. Why would you do this?"

He looks down, shame flickering in his eyes. "Honestly, I was scared. Scared of losing you, scared of ruining whatever this is between us. But instead, I ended up hurting you, which was the last thing I wanted."

The room fills with a heavy silence, but I feel some of the tension slipping away. There's a part of me that understands; he was confused, just like I've been. I exhale, letting go of some of the anger, even though the hurt is still there.

"So... where does that leave us?" I ask, my voice barely audible.

James reaches out, gently taking my hand. "I want to make things right. I know I can't take back what happened, but if you'll let me, I want to be there for you."

I look at him, studying his face. There's sincerity in his eyes, a softness that wasn't there before. And maybe, just maybe, we can find a way forward.

James takes a deep breath, like he's gathering courage. "Actually, there's something else I wanted to ask you. I know things are... complicated right now, but would you... would you go to prom with me? It's our last dance in school, and I'd really like to share that moment with you."

The question catches me off guard, but in the best way possible. I think of all the memories we've built, the ups and downs, and despite everything, the idea of sharing that last dance with him feels right.

A small smile tugs at my lips. "I'd like that, James. I really would."

His face lights up, and for the first time in a while, I feel a glimmer of peace. Whatever the future holds, I know we'll face it together, and for now, that's enough.