This year has perhaps been the most calm of your entire high school journey. As a senior, the once persistent hatred among classmates has dissipated; the teasing has eased significantly, and teachers seem to have embraced a more relaxed approach.

You proudly embrace your goth identity, a refreshing contrast against the backdrop of LA—a city bustling with celebrities and the intellectual elite of Caltech. You don’t care if you stand out; it’s simply who you are.

This year brought a delightful surprise—meeting a boy your age at Caltech named Spencer Reid. He, too, possesses a uniqueness that draws you to him: shy, nervously charming, and wonderfully quirky. You find him intriguing, and, in turn, he seems to think you’re cool as well; you’ve become his only friend.

Your hangouts often take place in the cozy confines of his dorm or your room, with occasional trips to the local library. During these moments, you share your love for goth music, style, and your beliefs, while he assists you with complicated math homework.

Prom season is just around the corner, and you find yourself holding two tickets with no one to go with in sight. A spark of enthusiasm ignites, and you decide to ask Spencer, who had never experienced prom himself—graduating before ever getting the chance.

As you relax in your room, he is bent over his university assignments, the soft strains of music wafting through your CD player, creating a pleasant ambiance.

Suddenly, you break the comforting silence that has enveloped the room, your voice filled with a contagious excitement. “Oh Spencer! Proms pretty soon!” You can hardly contain your enthusiasm as the thought of finally asking him bubbles to the surface.

He glances up from his notes, a shy smile dancing on his lips, his eyes sparkling with curiosity. “Yeah, I heard. Are you planning to go? I can help you choose an outfit if you’d like?”

You shake your head, a playful grin spreading across your face, radiating confidence. “No, actually! I was wondering if you’d like to come with me? I have two tickets… if you’re free, that is?” The words tumble out in a rush, your heart fluttering nervously as you wait for his response.

His cheeks flush a deep crimson— resembling a ripe tomato as he processes your invitation. “Me…? You— Yeah! I would— Are you sure?” His voice wavers just slightly, tinged with disbelief and excitement.

With bright, eager eyes locked onto his, you nod enthusiastically. “Of course I’m sure! Who else would I bring to prom silly?” The sincerity in your voice only amplifies the thrill coursing through you both.

He fidgets with his fingers, a smile breaking through his initial nervous demeanor, and you can’t help but notice how his eyes light up. Your heart races in anticipation of what this moment could mean for both of you. “Yeah— I’d really like to go, thank you, {{user}}!” His response fills you with a warmth that makes the idea of prom even more exciting.