Chapter 6: The Dance
The next day, I found myself in the midst of chaos. Students rushed back and forth down the halls, excited conversations filled every corner, and there was a palpable energy that could be felt throughout the school.
Today was the annual college dance, and everyone seemed ready to make the most of it.
As I headed towards the gymnasium, where the dance was being held, I couldn't help but feel out of place. I had been invited by Jamie to come with him, and while I was excited for the opportunity to spend more time with him, I wasn't sure if I really belonged. I hadn't prepared an outfit like everyone else seemed to have, nor did I feel comfortable dancing in front of strangers.
I looked toward the entrance, hoping to catch a glimpse of Jamie walking in. But the constant flow of students kept me from catching sight of him. I knew he had said that he would be a little late, coming straight from circus practice, but the dance was already almost an hour in.
A pang of disappointment clenched my heart, but I shook it off. I knew I was being silly. I tried to enjoy the music as it invigorated the crowd, but I remained awkwardly on the periphery, shifting my weight from one foot to the other. I glanced down at my outfit—a plain button-down shirt and well-worn jeans—and couldn't help but feel underdressed.
It seemed like everyone had taken this opportunity to spruce up their attire, with dazzling party dresses and sharp suits. I sighed and ran my hands through my hair nervously, wishing I had Jamie by my side. I looked over the crowd, hoping to find Jamie, but instead caught sight of Sophia.
She wore a revealing tight red dress and moved sensually to the music, surrounded by a group of other girls. They looked like they were having a great time, moving their bodies in sync with the beat.
I realized she was scanning the crowd in the same manner I had been, searching for a glimpse of his golden hair and dazzling smile. Sophia then caught sight of me.
"Hey, Robin," Sophia waved me over. I hesitated, but before I knew it, I had been swallowed up by her group of friends.
"Jamie's really late. Didn't he say he was coming? Does he usually show up to these things?" she asked with a hint of annoyance in her voice.
I couldn't help but feel a twinge of annoyance at Sophia's tone, as it wasn't like I had control over Jamie's schedule or attendance at this event.
"Well, Jamie did say he might be late, since he had circus practice today," I defended, trying my best to remain polite despite the tension.
Sophia rolled her eyes and sighed dramatically. "Ugh, what's keeping him? I swear, he plays so hard to get." Sophia huffed, shimmying in her red sequined dress as she continued to scan the crowd, ignoring my previous response.
I didn't respond, trying to hide my frustration. I didn't want to get into an argument. I just hoped Jamie was okay and that he would show up soon.
The music paused, a sign of an incoming announcement.