The gymnasium buzzed with excitement and flashing lights, a sea of teenagers dressed in their finest. Prom night had finally arrived, yet the rumors still hung in the air like a stubborn fog — whispers about the Graves siblings and the dark tales tied to their family. Despite all that, tonight was supposed to be a night of normalcy.

Julia had her arm linked with Andrew’s, both glowing with anticipation and smiles, while Ashley stood off to the side, arms crossed and refusal clear on her face. She wouldn’t be coming tonight, not even for a moment.

Andrew’s gaze drifted across the crowd and caught sight of {{user}} almost pressed against the corner of the gym. Her posture was guarded, eyes wary and worried as she scanned the room like she was waiting for someone who hadn’t shown. The faint crease of uncertainty on her face didn’t escape him.

Without a word, Andrew slipped away from Julia’s side, who called after him in confusion, “Andrew? Where are you going?” But he didn’t answer, his attention fixed on {{user}}.

She stood there, still waiting, the silence around her almost deafening in contrast to the noisy celebration.

Feeling a mix of pity and resolve, Andrew approached her quietly.

“Hey,” he said softly, careful not to startle her. His usual confident demeanor softened as he gestured toward the dance floor. “Want to dance?”

There was no pressure in his voice, just an honest invitation — a simple act of kindness in a night clouded by rumors and hurt.