That Cliche Kinda Love

Le chapitre huit | Anna

~ Chapter Eight ~

The doorbell rings ominously downstairs. Glancing up from the mirror I stand in front of, my heart skips a prominent beat. He's here. Rushing to finish up the last touches of my lipstick. Smacking my lips, I quickly kiss a napkin then take one final glance in the vanity. As good as it's gonna get I suppose. Let's get this party started.

In a hurry I pick up my clutch that matches my dress, take a little cardigan just in case, then am walking down the stairs in a matter of seconds. Once I reach the bottom the first thing I see is the flash of a camera, though sadly I'm not smiling for it. I probably look silly with my surprised expression. That'll be an embaressing shot to look at later- I almost cringe at the thought.

My parents brings the works though. Dad scares the crap out of Chandler, mom snaps a million shots per minute, and before we leave we have to promise to be safe and be good. I've already told them I'm spending the night at Susie's house- which is a lie. Though, when we leave they don't even question the fact that I didn't bring an overnight bag. I won't be needing it of course. At the thought of that, my stomach clenches.

Once we're safe inside the car from the mom-a-razzi, I breath deeply in relief. Now it's just the dance, then off to Davey's house to get this over with. Yeah, Davey said we could do it at his place. His parents went out for the night, Cally's at a friends house, and I guess Donny won't be there. Even if he is, he won't care.

So it's all set I guess, though that knot in my gut is going to be a bit of a hurdle.

We drive to the school in a stale silence. I've really nothing to talk about and I guess both of our minds are pretty preoccupied. Understandably. The school is decked out with balloons and streamers and banners and multicolored lights. The whole thing looks pretty festive and I actually smile at the sight- this is my Junior prom. Best enjoy it, right?

Chandler parks the car, turns it off, then shifts in his seat to look at me. Smiling gently he swiftly looks me over then grabs my hand.

"You look great," he compliments. Of course I smile, but something deep down in me takes note that he didn't use the word beautiful. Not really sure how I feel about that right now.

"Thanks, you do, too," I reply looking away to hide that stupid blush covering my cheeks.

He chuckles and turns my head back with his other hand. Our eyes meet and I freeze as he leans in. This kiss is almost bitter in my mouth, though he seems to really be into it. As we pull apart he's breathing heavy as he pants out a suggestion.

"What do you say we just skip the dance and get to the good stuff, huh?" He winks then and I feel uneasy. Trying to joke it off, I push him back by placing my two hands firmly on his chest.

"I'd rather not, let's enjoy this and then enjoy that later, yeah?" I recommend firmly, but caringly I hope. It feels like I'm walking a tight-rope with this guy. He doesn't seem pleased in his eyes, but his mouth says something different.

"Sure, let's get going then, you ready?" he moves away and opens his door looking back at me.

I nod and smile, unbuckle, then join him on the outside. We automatically take hold of each others hands and begin walking toward the entrance. The dance is being held in the gymnasium this year, budget cuts, so all we have to do is go through the east entrance- then we're right inside the hub of excitement.

The gym is alive with students chattering away, girls squealing, music pumping, and bodys moving in all sorts of ways. I take just a moment to take it all in then before I know it Chandler is dragging me along through the crowd. We meet up with his friends and a few of mine who are all standing in a huddle by the food table. Finally I let go of his hand and join some of my girl friends. All the while though I'm keeping an eye out for Davey, he'll be my lifeline tonight.