Walking to my best friend Luke’s house felt surreal. It was his uncle’s place, and being invited felt like a true acceptance into their family, something I cherished. Luke and I have been inseparable since we were practically babies. My mind drifted to the countless silly adventures we’d shared, like those days spent as kids, cardboard boxes on our heads, battling imaginary aliens as robot astronauts. Lost in these nostalgic thoughts, I arrived at the party and knocked on the door, the music already thumping softly from inside.
Stepping into the party, Lily’s bright smile was the first thing I noticed. I waved, and she enthusiastically waved back before darting outside with a friend, likely drawn by the louder music and outdoor games. Suddenly, Luke was there, greeting me with a warm, “Hey, wow you look beautiful!” and a quick hug. Blushing slightly, I hugged him back, teasing, “You don’t look too bad yourself, Lukie bear.” He playfully rolled his eyes, a familiar gesture, and headed off into the party crowd, probably in search of snacks or drinks.
I then bumped into Manny, who looked a bit downcast. “Hey, what’s up, Manny?” I asked, concerned. “Oh, nothing,” he mumbled, “I just can’t find Lottie anywhere, and she said she’d come.” I gave him a sympathetic smile, knowing that Lottie probably said that to politely brush him off. Trying to lift his spirits, I suggested, “I’m sure she’ll show up. In the meantime, why don’t we dance? I can hear the music outside!” He managed a small nod and a weak “okay” before rushing towards the dance floor, immediately getting lost in the rhythm. I placed my present for Cam on the designated table and joined Manny, letting loose and dancing like nobody was watching.
After a few energetic songs, we were both breathless and headed to the makeshift bar for refreshments. Spotting Luke looking glum in a corner, I went over to him. “Hey, what’s wrong, Luke?” He looked up, shrugged, and tried to walk away. Not letting him retreat, I gently took his hand and pulled him towards the dance floor. A slow song had just started, perfect timing. We squeezed onto the dance floor next to Cam and Mitch, and even Mitch’s mom and dad. As we swayed to the music, my arms instinctively went around his neck, and his settled on my waist. “What is wrong, Luke? You know I’m always here for you,” I whispered over the music.
He leaned in, whispering back, “Okay, well… I like you, and you’ve spent the whole night with Manny, who invited a girl to come with him. I asked you, and you kind of ditched me!” My heart fluttered. “I like you too, Luke. I have for ages,” I confessed softly. “I danced with Manny because the girl he invited stood him up. I was just trying to make him feel better.” I leaned in and kissed his cheek. A wide smirk spread across his face. “Will you go out with me? Like, on a date and be my girlfriend?” he asked, a hint of nervousness in his voice. “Yes, Luke, I would love to,” I replied, a genuine smile lighting up my face. He surprised me by picking me up and spinning me around, pure joy radiating from him. Catching Cam’s eye, we both erupted into giggles. Luke set me down, and we walked to get drinks, eventually finding a quieter spot to sit and talk.
“Oh god, look at the time! I’m so sorry, Luke, I have to go!” I exclaimed, realizing how late it had gotten. I stood up, gave him a quick hug, and started towards the door. As I reached the exit, he mumbled a slightly grumpy “bye.” I turned back, gave him a quick peck on the lips, and said, “Goodbye, Luke!” before running off into the night, a happy blush warming my cheeks and the exciting promise of a date with Luke Dunphy filling my thoughts.
