My Sweet Bully

Looking at myself in the mirror, I feel pretty.

“We look so fuckable.” Amy stands next to me, twisting her back against mine as she holds up an invisible gun. “Come on, Charlie’s Angels with me.”

Giggling, I hold up matching gun fingers, and press my back into hers as I cock my leg out the slit of my dress.

“We really do look sexy as hell.”

In strappy, silver heels, and a long, rose pink gown, the back is open all the way down to the small of my back, showcasing the dimples right above my ass. Thin ties wrap around my neck, and sequins create sweeping designs down the right side of my hip, flowing out across the front.

“We’re gonna turn some heads tonight. Ben is going to meet me there, and he’s giving me a ride home, so you don’t have to worry. This way, you and Max don’t have a third wheel after prom.” Amy bends over, adjusting the strap on her heel. “This is why I hate heels. Whoever invented these shoes hates feet, I swear.”

“Yeah, but your legs look so long.”

She pops up straight and runs her fingers gently through the loose strands in the front. “They do, don’t they?” Pointing a toe out, she tightens and twists her leg so her calf muscle pops.

Giggling, I slap her arm lightly and grab my clutch. “I’m ready, let’s do this.”

Her mom takes a few pictures of us and I have her take a few on my phone so I can send them to my parents. I feel good. I’m actually really looking forward to tonight.

Arriving at the school, there are lights out in front that are shooting towering beams into the sky. A banner is hanging over the entrance, welcoming the seniors to a starry night.

Amy grabs my hand, and squeals. “This is going to be awesome. Ben has no idea what he’s in for. He’s getting laid tonight.”

“Ew, gross,” I say, sticking out my tongue. “Can you not detail that part of the night for me when I talk to you tomorrow?”

“Ha ha.” Her voice is sarcastic as shit as she rolls her eyes. “And the answer is no. I’m going to happily share every detail. Everything. From tip to tail, or should I say crown to base?” Smirking, she bares her teeth.

“You really need to understand the term TMI.”

Amy scoops her arm into mine, bumping into me as we walk up the steps to the front doors. “Don’t lie, you know you’ll be asking me all about it.”

The music is making its way out to us before we’re even inside. Amy hands her ticket in first, and I follow suit. “You girls know there’s no alcohol allowed, right?” the teacher asks, giving us a side eye.

Amy huffs lightly, scrunching her face. “Do we look like we have alcohol stashed someplace?” Holding out her arms, she spins in a circle.

The teacher smiles coyly, giving us a nod that we can pass. “Have fun, girls.”

Taking in a deep breath, my heart is going wild with anticipation.

Tonight’s going to be a good night.

Our heels click in tandem, like the perfectly synchronized clop of a horse trotting proudly. Amy and I are wearing big smiles, giggling as we make our way into the gymnasium. I can’t help it, I feel giddy.

The lighting is dim, more strobe lights flash across the ceiling, making the dangling silver stars sparkle. White linen covered tables decorate the outer edges, leaving the center open as a giant dance floor.

“Do you see Max?” I ask Amy, holding her arm, and looking around the room.

“Um. . .” She lifts onto her toes, spinning in a circle. “I don’t,” she says, dropping back down onto her heels.

“Guess who?” Large hands come around Amy’s face, and cover her eyes.

Startled, she inhales a quick burst of air, releasing it into a laugh. “Bentley, you scared me to death.” She pulls his hand off her face and spins around to hug him.

“Hey, Prairie.” Ben gives me a smile as he holds Amy.

“Hey,” I say, my eyes searching behind him.

Where’s Max?

Ben tilts his head into his chest, a slight smile creeping across his face as he wraps Amy tighter. “You wanna dance?”

Amy looks at me, then back at him. “Um, I do, but—” She cuts herself off, letting her eyes settle on mine. “We could wait for Max to get here.” Her voice is patient, and I can tell she’s trying to do what she thinks she should.

“No, go, it’s fine. Go dance.” Moving my eyes to the dance floor, I stare blankly. “I’m sure he’ll be here any minute.” Thinning my lips into a light smile, I wrap my arms around my ribs. “Go have fun you two, I’ll be fine.”

Amy grabs my hand and squeezes, letting me know she’ll be here if I need her. I don’t doubt her wordless reminder, but I’m not going to hold her back from enjoying her prom night while I wait for my date.