Later that afternoon, the entire class buzzed with excitement.
Mr. Peterson stood at the front of the room, trying to quiet everyone down.
"Alright, listen up," he said. "As you all know, the annual school dance is coming up this Friday."
The class erupted again.
"There will be music, food, and prizes," he continued. "So make sure you attend."
Sharon glanced around the room.
Everyone was already talking about dates, outfits, and plans.
Even Mia leaned over excitedly.
"This is your chance!" she whispered.
"For what?" Sharon asked.
"To go with Dylan!"
Sharon almost choked.
"We are not going together."
"Then why was he acting weird earlier?" Mia teased.
Sharon didn't answer.
Because she didn't know.
At that moment, Dylan leaned back in his chair and turned toward her.
"So," he said quietly, "are you going to the dance?"
"I don't know," Sharon replied.
"You should go," he said.
"With Ethan?" she asked.
Dylan paused.
"If you want," he said.
His voice sounded neutral.
Too neutral.
Sharon felt a strange feeling in her chest.
"Maybe I will," she said.
Dylan nodded slightly and turned back to face the front.
But for the rest of the lesson, neither of them spoke.