As we enter the auditorium, it feels as though every head turns in unison in our direction. I feel Jaylie’s body tense beside me as she stops suddenly and instinctively puts her hand under my arm, grasping my forearm from the inside. My own heart rate increases, but it has nothing to do with the stares. I look at everyone and smile from ear to ear. This should be fun!
“Dude! Since when are you late to anything?” Adam asks loudly, walking up to shake my free hand, leaving Jaylie’s clutched side alone. “Don’t you know the fun can’t start without you two?”
“Yeah, man. What took you so long? Did you have to shave your legs or something?” Brian jokes as he approaches us as well. Jaylie giggles a little beside me. My evening is now made, even if that giggle was at my expense. Again.
“It was
