Time and Again

Chapter 1 - Part 1: Just for the Food

"But, I'm not worthy, Shel!" I exclaimed, looking into my closet. I pushed aside a couple of gold-tinted frocks and pulled out a striking silver number. The dress swished as I pulled it against my body and posed for my best friend.

"Dang, girl. You can at least fake being worthy." She raised her eyebrows at me, gesturing me to twirl around. I complied, laughing. "You look gorgeous. There's absolutely no way you won't grab his attention in that dress."

I pouted, my good humor gone. This wasn't just a party. This was the party. Everyone that was anyone was going to be there. And I, out of everyone in this shabby, joke of a town, had received the shiny, golden envelope in the mail a week prior. Nerves jumped around in my stomach with an intensity akin to bullfrogs.

"I can't do this, Shelley. I just can't. What will Liam say?" I fingered the raised edges of the silver sequins lining the bodice wistfully. "You know that Liam wouldn't approve."

Shelley walked over to me and placed her hands on my shoulders, forcing me to look her in the eyes. "You're entitled to a bit of fun, Grace. Even Liam wouldn't keep you from that. He loves you, you know."

I attempted to smile, but I'm afraid I failed. I felt guilty going to a party that my boyfriend of a year had not been invited to. It was silly, but I wished that I had his arm to hold onto while walking up the large marble steps into the foyer. I wouldn't know anyone from my immediate friend group and that fact frightened me more than I let on. More than I would even let my best friend know.

"Plus, it's not like you're going to marry Barrett Anderson. Or even catch his eye," Shelley exclaimed, tossing her hand in the air in a "whatever" gesture. She walked back over to my bed, flopping onto her back on top of my comforter. "Just go for the free food."

I felt my lips curve upwards and I tossed the dress I was holding over a nearby chair. Running over to Shelley, I flopped on my back next to her and stared up at the glow-in-the-dark stars littered across my ceiling.

"I'll go for the free food. Just for the free food," I whispered, feeling the anxiety leak out of me with each exhale.