The Last Five Years

Poppy

  Peter left for the reunion about half an hour ago. He once again begged me to go, but I had to keep the secret from him for just a little longer. He had left with the roll of his eyes, but his lips held that playful smirk

I was finishing doing my hair and makeup before I got dressed. I searched through my closet for what felt like hours before I decided on a long sleeved, peach color dress. It stopped mid thigh, and was backless. I paired it with cream colored heels, and hoop earrings.

After checking myself in the mirror once again, and looking at the clock about twelve times, I dipped out the door and began the drive to the old high school. I drove these roads every day, and even though I felt like I would get bored eventually, the familiarity of it comforted me.

I thought about the wild possibility of Drew showing up. His career was too important to him, I decided, with the shake of my head. In some ways, I applauded him on it. In some deep part of me, I detested him for it.

It was a struggle to find parking, as it appeared that everyone showed up. Upon walking in, people gave grins and waves. A couple of them even stopped to thank me for coming.

After asking for a name tag at the table set up near the office, I walked into the old gym. It still looked the same, just felt a little older. The school colors, maroon and white, that were painted on the wall were faded.

I spotted Peter with his back to me, standing with old friends with the football team. I quietly walked behind him, covering his eyes with my hands.

"Guess who?" I sang in his ear. He gripped my hands in his, chuckling.

"You made it!" He spun around, giving me a kiss. "Babe, you remember Casey, right?" He gestured to the guy that stood in front of him.

"Poppy Benbrook." The blonde guy grinned. "You look the exact same. I gotta say, I didn't think you would end up with this dumb ass." Oh, no. Here it comes. "We all thought you would end up with Drew."

I forced a smile as Peter cleared his throat next to me. "Well, people change right. Casey, was it?" I looked up at Peter, still forcing that smile. "Alright, I'd say it's time I hit the bar. You want anything?"

Peter shook his head. "No, I'm good right now." I patted his shoulder, kissing his cheek before I walked away.

I made my way through the maze of Raymond High alum, trying to get to the makeshift bar. Every time someone approached me, I would act like I didn't see them. How did I think I could get through this night without the mention of him?

"Shot of the strongest thing you have." I said to the bartender, and he raised an eyebrow. "Please?"