our own complexity

XII

Immediately after the song ended, a moment of silence occurred, and then a big cheer was heard all the way to the field where we were. More enthusiastic than usual, breaking that peaceful moment when all I wanted to hear was Julian's heart pounding against his chest. After the screams died down, a voice was heard through the big speakers.

"And with that... heartwarming presentation, we have reached the end of our 72nd annual talent show." I recognized the voice. It was Alto Academy's principal, Dr. Winward. And as I processed what he said, my eyes widened.

I lifted my head from Julian's shoulder and looked at him horrified. "We... I missed Polly's dance." When he understood what I meant, he looked at me apologetically. "You didn't let me know!"

I stood up so fast I got dizzy for a second and started fast walking towards the gym. I heard him standing up and starting to trail behind me.

"Have I ever mentioned you have the prettiest dirty blonde hair?" He asked, I rolled my eyes.

"Okay, for one, this isn't the time. And, for two, my hair isn't blonde! It's light brown!" And then, I started running towards the gym at once.

I felt like the most horrible friend. I had been there for one singular purpose: Polly. And I hadn't even been there for her. Because of what? A boy I liked? I couldn't even stay seated for two hours for a friend.

     Once I got there, people were spilling out of the wide front doors. All chatting and gossiping. I started making my way through them to meet Polly in the dressing rooms. Letting "I'm sorry"s slip out of my lips every once in a while. And then, I recognized May's face. She was wearing black skinny jeans and a white tank top. She was smiling and looking at something in her hands while talking to Neels about it. He was wearing navy jeans and a grey sweatshirt. He had a small smile on his face and he was hiding something behind him.

"May!" I called and she looked up confused. Then, she smiled again when she recognized me and started walking in my direction, I was walking to her too.

"Where were you, you two? You missed it!" She said excitedly, and just then I realized that Julian was standing beside me. "It was amazing. Polly was amazing. You're lucky I was recording."

Then, she stretched her hand to me and I realized it was her phone she wanted for me to take. I did so and noticed there was a video on her screen. She giggled and pressed play.

     There was the stage and Polly in a beautiful golden swing dress that went down to her knees. Her black hair was in a perfect high ponytail, and I could see she was wearing red lipstick. I knew she was going to dress like that but I still was surprised by how stunning she looked. She was just standing there, scanning the public as if she was looking for someone. Holding a small bouquet of lilacs in her hand.

     "invisible string" then started playing and I had to stop myself from looking at Julian, who was also watching the video over my shoulder, some traces of his breath caressing my neck. I could feel his body behind me almost touching me. Polly started dancing to the song. Soft, delicate movements that made her look so vulnerable. So dainty, not one single flower dropped in the floor from the motion. The public was silent as if admiring every single move. And I couldn't blame them. The screen behind her started playing a video as the song went on and she was twirling and pirouetting. The video contained a series of phrases that seemed to be written by her, like a message.

     "Dear Beautiful Person,"

     "I met you so many years ago and have loved you for so long."

     "And I have also been quiet."

     "So quiet, every single time I am beside you, my heart feels heavy."