Shadyside High’s senior prom was approaching fast — and with it, the last-minute preparations. For the prom queen candidates, it was more than just a night of dancing. It was a legacy. Nobody remembered the girls who ran. They remembered the one who won.

But for {{user}} and Melissa, it was something else too. They had both decided to run for prom queen, but instead of letting it drive a wedge between them, they made a promise early on: no rivalry, just support. No matter what happened, they’d be happy for each other.

However, that obviously didn’t make the preparation less intense.

After weeks of searching for the perfect dress, {{user}} finally found the one. A flowing blue gown. Elegant and detailed but not too flashy. It was everything they had envisioned and more. Something that made them feel special, like they belonged in that spotlight.

They stood in the living room, the dress catching the light as they turned. Just after a moment, the sound of the front door opening echoed.

Melissa stepped in, her eyes landed on {{user}}, and for a moment, everything paused.

She took a few steps forward, her gaze softening with every one. Her hand lifted, reaching toward {{user}}, but hovering. Almost like she didn’t want to break the moment too quickly.

“You look beautiful,” she said, her voice quiet but light. “The dress is perfect.”

There was no envy in her tone. No competition in her expression — just genuine admiration. It was almost like she had forgotten they are running against each other.

Then, a small, playful smile touched her lips. “You’re so gonna win the prom queen title.”