The school gym was picture-perfect—soft string lights overhead, balloons along the walls, music pulsing through the air, and students dressed to impress for one of the biggest nights of their lives.
For most, prom was excitement personified.
For Lena, it was something else entirely.
She lingered near the drinks table, watching classmates laugh, take photos, and glide across the floor. Parties like this weren’t usually her scene. Over the years, whispers and jokes about her appearance had followed her through every hallway—sometimes subtle, sometimes painfully clear.
She had learned to carry it all quietly.
Still, she chose to show up. Prom only comes once.
The Unexpected Invitation
Lena kept things simple—a dark green dress, neat hair, her usual glasses. She didn’t want to stand out. Just get through the night.
Then the music shifted.
Slow dance time. Couples paired off. Laughter softened, movements slowed, and the room felt different.
That’s when Artem, one of the most confident, popular boys in school, approached her.
He’d been standing beside Vika moments before. Now, he stopped in front of Lena, hand outstretched.
“Want to dance?” he asked.
Continue reading on next page…