Tricia was watching the crowd dancing to the loud music. She was standing at the corner of the pavilion facing the door; she had been thinking of fleeing from the occasion and had been dying to get out of her noodle-strap silk dress which showed her broad shoulders and the curves of her slim body. It was a simple dress, but it looked elegant as it complemented her figure.
It was their prom night and even if she didn't want to attend, she had to be there since she was the president of the graduating class. Her boredom was getting intolerable; she needed fresh air. She crossed the pavilion absent-mindedly and was in deep thoughts while walking along the empty corridor. "Just one more hour and this will be over," she said to herself. She sat carelessly at the top of the stairs then raised her arms and stretched her back.
"You should be inside dancing instead of exercising here," a voice startled her.
She nearly jumped to her feet, "Sheesh! Who are you?" Her pupils were dilated trying to adjust to the darkness.
"I'm the goddess of darkness," the voice replied with a hint of smile. She stared at the figure slowly forming in front of her. The girl was wearing a sleeveless white shirt with a big mickey mouse printed on it, tattered fitted blue jeans, and Chuck Taylor shoes. "Just kidding! I'm Jessie," the girl said smiling and offered her hand.
Tricia ignored the hand, but managed a nod. "Very funny," she said with a hint of annoyance. "What are you doing here? The place is supposed to be closed until 1 a.m."
"I'm just waiting for someone. She's still inside," Jessie casually replied. Tricia looked embarrassed but did not show it. Jessie regarded her carefully before asking, "And who are you, please?"
After seconds of hesitation, Tricia said, "I'm Tricia. Would you like to watch inside?"
"No, thank you. I am fine here. Don't you need to get inside?" Jessie said staring at her with a smile. Tricia seemed to be lost at the moment thinking about the girl who was just in front of her. "Hey, are you alright?" Jessie was waiving her hand in front of her. Jessie's warm breath brought her back to her senses, she nodded and smiled weakly, "Yes, I'm OK." Jessie was eyeing her curiously and repeated the question, "Don't you need to get inside?" Tricia shook her head, "No. They don't need me there."
"Not enjoying the party, aye? Two years ago, I was also forced to attend the prom," she said with a smirk. "It was the last episode of my favorite show. I was teary eyed the entire evening." She laughed contagiously, Tricia also laughed. "How about you, why are you here, outside?"
Tricia shrugged her shoulders, "I'm done with my tasks and I needed fresh air." Jessie stared at her and said apologetically, "Oh, I'm sorry. I disturbed your peace. Guess I have to leave you alone." Before Jessie could turn, Tricia grabbed her arm, "No, it's OK. Stay, please." Jessie sat beside her and offered her one of the earphones, "Want to listen with me?" Tricia was about to refuse but decided to accept the offer. She nearly laughed when she heard the song that was currently playing. "Ballerina Girl?" She asked grinning and staring at Jessie, who appeared to be confused with her reaction.
"I'm sorry. It's just that... it doesn't seem to suit you." Tricia was already turning red. Jessie smiled, "Were you expecting a little more sentimental than this?" Tricia felt she's slowly melting and was relieved when she heard Jessie laughed. "Don't worry, I get that a lot," and gave Tricia a quick reassuring nod. Moments later, she felt relaxed and calm. She closed her eyes and enjoyed the songs, not knowing that Jessie was watching her.
"Trix! Party will be over in a couple of minutes. We need you inside." Tricia and Jessie both turned to look at the person approaching them. "Jessie? What are you doing here?" She rushed towards Jessie and hugged her. Jessie handed the other earphone and the ipod to Tricia, who was staring at them curiously, and returned the hug. "I'm here to pick you up." Sensing that the two needed privacy, Tricia excused herself, "I'll go ahead, Kelly. Nice meeting you, Jessie." Jessie nodded and returned her gaze to Kelly.
