Just one.
My mom spent weeks helping me pick out my dress. Elliot arrived at my house in a navy-blue suit with a tiny blue rose pinned to his jacket.
My dad shook his hand at the door and smiled warmly.
“You look sharp tonight, son.”
Elliot’s entire face lit up.
“Ready?” he asked nervously.
I had never seen him look more handsome.
“I’m ready.”
But now, standing in the gym while people laughed at us all over again, I suddenly wanted to cry.
The room glittered beneath hanging lights. Couples danced together while teachers lingered near the walls, pretending not to hear the comments.
Then another girl shouted from across the dance floor.
“Careful not to lose him in the crowd!”
More laughter erupted.
I lowered my eyes toward the floor.
“Ignore them,” Elliot murmured gently.
“How?” I whispered.
Then, unexpectedly, he took my hand and guided me straight toward the center of the dance floor.
