Alyssa remained silent as they drove to the high school. Drew held her hand. She appreciated the comfort of his touch. Parking in the overcrowded student lot, he opened the door of her car, helping her to her feet.
After leaving their outerwear in coat check, they joined a long line of chatting students who waited to have their pictures taken. Alyssa still didn't say a word. She stood in the milling crowd of formally dressed seniors, under a series of arches hung with purple and white balloons and gold ribbons. Drew slipped his arms around her and she leaned on him, drawing strength from his presence.
Finally, they entered the gym, which had been decorated with more balloons and ribbons, interspersed with paper flowers, just as a slow song began to play.
Alyssa wasn't ready to let go of
