The weekend arrived faster than Lena anticipated, bringing with it the looming excitement—and dread—of the Christmas dance. The air was electric with chatter about dresses, dates, and last-minute plans as students buzzed through the halls. Lena, however, felt like she was walking a tightrope. Between Ryker’s intensity, River’s charm, and Ryder’s steady warmth, her emotions had become an unpredictable storm.
She sighed as she stuffed her books into her locker. Tonight would be a test, one she wasn’t entirely sure she was ready for.
“Lena!” Mia’s voice cut through the chaos, her friend jogging up to her with a garment bag slung over her shoulder. “You’re not bailing on me tonight, are you?”
“No,” Lena said, shaking her head. “I promised, didn’t I?”
Mia grinned. “Good. Because I found the
