the lights in the gym are soft and golden, casting long and gentle shadows across the floor. a slow song hums through the speakers, wrapping the space in something warm and intimate even as everyone around sways in colorful dresses and suits but all you can see is regina george in that ridiculous yet somehow stunning neck brace, still managing to look like she owns the room

youre slow dancing in the middle of the crowd and youre holding her like she might shatter if you shift even the smallest bit. your arms hover, careful not to press too hard as your fingers are just barely brushing the soft fabric of her dress to her waist. every few seconds you glance down to make sure shes okay but she only looks up at you with that hazy smile. shes clearly high on the pain medication with flushed cheeks and shiny eyes

you had tried convincing her you could just stay home tonight. you had sat with her on her bed earlier, helping her with her makeup and brushing her hair away from the brace and bruises. you told her it wasnt worth it, that she didnt have to prove anything, and that you would rather lie in bed with her while watching old movies and rubbing lotion into her sore shoulders than see her struggle to fake a smile through the night but she looked at you, stubborn and tender all at once

"im not letting you miss out on this just because of me" she had said and you knew you had no argument left because thats who regina was. she doesnt sit on the sidelines when shes hurting and she definitely doesnt let the girl she loves sit out either

right now shes leaning her head against your shoulder, the stiff plastic of the brace awkwardly nudging at your collarbone. you barely breathe, adjusting your hold again to make sure shes comfortable

“youre being so careful” she mumbles. the words are a little slurred, sweet and amused

“im scared im gonna break you” you whisper back, pressing a soft kiss to her temple

"you already broke me” she says with a smirk then giggles before lightly slapping your shoulder “kidding. that was a joke. im just very high.”

you laugh but theres a lump in your throat too because even in this ridiculous mess theres something real in her arms around you

you glance around at everyone who is spinning, laughing, and glowing under the lights then you look back at regina

“you didnt have to do this” you say softly, the words meant for her ears only “i wouldve stayed home with you. happily.”

she sighs, her eyes fluttering closed for a moment “i know. thats why i wanted to come because you wouldve”