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I just hoped when I arrived, my date would be happy to see me too.
Twenty-Three
Xiomara
When the limopulled in front of the school, I couldn’t help but notice how full the parking lot was. We’d expected maybe fifty to a hundred people, but judging by the amount of cars spilling out along the street, there had to be at least double that.
My heart swelled with pride, and I said to my friends, “I hope everyone likes our decorations.”
Dee put her hand on my arm. “They’re going to love them.”
“Yeah,” Van agreed. “Ollie and I spent way too long on that ceiling gossamer for anyone to complain.”
I laughed. “You make a good point.”
The limo slowed along the curb, and the driver called back, “Is everyone ready, or shall I make another loop?”
Dee squeezed my hand, and I nodded. “We’re ready.”
He stopped the vehicle and got out to hold open the door. Shelley got out first and ran to meet Gunnar, who was waiting for her at the bench. He took her in his arms and spun her around in the cutest way.
Then Van climbed out of the limo and held Ronnie’s hand as she stepped out. They looked like they were ready to strut the red carpet. And then it was Dee and me.
She squeezed my hand. “I know you’re sad not to have a date, but just remember, you’re never alone.” She tapped my nose. “Not with our crazy family.”
I laughed, holding her hand back. “Have I mentioned that Kansas is too far?”
“You’re starting to sound like Mom,” she teased, getting up. “Come on. Let’s see all of your hard work come to life.”
I followed her out of the car and took in every moment. The dimming light in the sky, the warm breeze playing softly across my shoulders, the swish of dresses as we walked over the sidewalk with the rest of the people going to the prom.
I didn’t even recognize most everyone walking into Emerson Academy, which made me excited. This pride event, it was bigger than me, bigger than Emerson. And even though some people had to hide, I hoped we could honor them by being our truest selves tonight.
At the top of the stairs, Dee pulled the door open for me, but I said, “You go in. I need a minute.”
She nodded, giving me a gentle smile before heading inside.
I stood at the railing, overlooking the school courtyard. I had two more years at Emerson Academy, but I mourned for the four years Stefon and Kiyana had spent keeping secrets. And even though I couldn’t understand, even though I hadn’t been through the same experience, I felt for them.
I went back to the message thread with Kiyana. It was time to write her back.
Xiomara: Kiyana, I had an incredible time getting to know you. It was more fun than I ever could have imagined. And I can’t tell you how sorry I am for trying to pressure you into coming out. You don’t owe anyone your truth until you’re ready to share it. So no matter how much I wish I could twirl with you under the disco ball, I hope you know that today was and will always be enough. I hope you have the very best time at college, and I know your life will be just as incredible as you are.
I hit send and put my phone on silent before placing it back in my clutch. I was going to follow Dee’s advice and stop worrying so much about what I was missing out on. Because I had great friends who loved me, parents who would do anything for me, and a prom to enjoy.
I followed a couple inside the school and walked to the gym, where the hum of voices and soft music blended to a dull roar. A photographer had set up by the boat, taking photos of couples. Servers walked about, carrying trays of non-alcoholic drinks for everyone to enjoy.
And then I saw my parents standing together in black clothes, rainbow chaps, and matching cowboy hats.
I let out a giggle as I saw them, Dad’s arm around Mom’s waist. I hoped I could have a love like theirs someday. A family like ours.
Dad caught sight of me first and waved me over. “Xi, you look stunning,” he said.
Mom smiled, her eyes moist for the millionth time today. “You are absolutely beautiful.”
I did a spin, loving the way I felt in my dress, surrounded by people who cared so deeply for me. “I feel beautiful.”
Mom said, “Will you go take a picture with the photographer? I already filled out a form for you and Dee so we can get copies.”
