Magnolia Lake by Emily Paige Skeen

Author:Emily Paige Skeen [Skeen, Emily Paige]
Language: eng
Format: epub, azw3
Publisher: No Greater Love Publishing
Published: 2020-04-16T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twelve

My heart stopped. I felt myself staring but couldn’t tear my eyes away from the scene. And they were definitely making a scene. It was like they’d rehearsed their routine with a professional. He even lifted her at the end of the song. Applause erupted as the music faded.

How had I not noticed them earlier? Was I that carried away in my own world, my own perfect evening, not to see Landon with her? Or had they just arrived?

I couldn’t answer these questions. I couldn’t process what was happening or what I was feeling. The stab of pain in my gut felt oddly familiar—like jealousy—but that was ridiculous. I was enjoying my night, my date, and my friends. I was happy. So why did the sight of Landon with that girl send me into mental hysterics?

Something sharp pressed down on my foot, and I realized it was Val’s heel. “Get a grip,” she whispered. “Rex is headed this way, and he’s already watchin’ you. Quit lookin’ at them…and laugh or somethin’.”

Uh-oh. I turned my head toward her dramatically and faked a giggle. “Was I that obvious?” I mumbled through a grin.

“Just keep laughin’,” she urged.

A few short moments later, Rex was in the chair next to me with his arm draped over my shoulders. He proceeded to kiss my cheek, as if he were showing off or trying to make a point. Either way, it frustrated me.

“I’m goin’ to the ladies’ room,” I announced, pushing away from the table and Rex’s hold. Rex stared after me, dumbfounded. I could feel everyone watching me as I walked away, but I didn’t care. I needed some space. I strode faster toward the restrooms, bumping into a few people on the way.

After what felt like an eternity, I finally reached my destination and pushed through the door. I exhaled and leaned against the wall. Luckily, I was alone. All I needed was a few minutes to regain control of my emotions and then I’d be fine.

With a deep breath, I turned to look in the full-length mirror. As the air rushed out of my lungs, I noticed the strained expression on my face. I took a few more deep breaths and tried to smile.

It didn’t look convincing, so I lifted my chin and tried again. That one was a little better. It would have to do. I stood there a little longer, taking in my appearance.

The dress I wore hugged my curves in all the right places and showed some skin where needed. Modest enough but flattering. Bangs swept in an angle across my forehead, and curls brushed the tops of my shoulders. To my surprise, none of the curls had fallen out, despite all the dancing I’d already done. My makeup was still perfect…to match my perfect date and perfect friends.

But what did it all matter? The hours I’d spent on hair, makeup, and nails. The weeks I’d spent picking out the exact right dress. The nights I’d spent dreaming of a fairytale prom.

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