Chapter 38: The Promposal
(Lyra's POV)
By the time Friday rolled around, my camera roll was 90% dresses, 5% shoes, and 5% Evan's texts that made my heart do somersaults.
We were all going dress shopping together after school — "for moral support," Soraya claimed, which actually meant "to turn the store into a runway."
The boutique was glowing with soft lights and racks of shimmering fabric. Cassian looked like he'd rather die than hold another clutch, but Aveline dragged him along anyway.
"Don't you look happy, Cass," I teased.
He sighed dramatically. "I love you all, but if I see one more glitter dress, I'll start shedding sequins."
Soraya and Saphira burst out laughing, already buried in racks of gowns.
"Try this one, Lyra!" Soraya called, holding up a silver-blue satin dress that glimmered like moonlight.
I hesitated. "That looks too—"
"Perfect," Saphira interrupted. "Go change before we change your mind."
The dressing room was quiet except for the soft swish of fabric. When I finally looked in the mirror, I froze.
It was simple — flowy, soft, elegant — but it felt right. Like it had been waiting for me.
I smoothed down the skirt, trying not to smile too hard. "Okay, maybe they were right."
When I stepped out, the room fell silent.
Soraya gasped.
Saphira's mouth dropped open.
Aveline clasped her hands together.
Cassian blinked twice. "Well, damn."
My cheeks warmed. "Is it… too much?"
Aveline shook her head, grinning. "It's perfect, Lyra."
Before I could respond, the door opened. "You guys still here? I—"
It was Evan.
He stopped mid-sentence, eyes locking on me like someone had just pressed pause on his entire world.
For a long, terrifying moment, he didn't say anything. He just stared.
Then, quietly, "You look…" His voice trailed off, rough around the edges. "…incredible."
I could feel my pulse racing in my ears. "Thanks," I mumbled, looking away.
Soraya nudged Saphira with a grin that screamed we're watching this unfold.
By Monday, everyone was buzzing about prom — themes, outfits, pairings. There were even rumors about who was asking who.
I didn't expect mine to go viral.
The morning started normal — until halfway through the lunch period when the intercom clicked on.
"Lyra Summers, please report to the courtyard."
Every head turned toward me.
"What did you do now?" Soraya teased.
I frowned. "I… have no idea."
When I stepped outside, the entire courtyard was gathered — students, teachers, everyone.
And in the middle stood Evan, holding a bouquet of white roses.
Oh. My. God.
He grinned nervously when he saw me. "Hey, Sol."
The crowd started whispering. Cameras came out.
He took a deep breath. "You told me once you hated attention, so I figured I'd make this quick."
I blinked. "Evan—"
"But then," he continued, "I realized you've spent so long dimming yourself just to feel safe. And I kinda want the whole world to see how bright you are."
The crowd melted.
He stepped closer, roses in hand. "So, Lyra Summers… will you go to prom with me?"
Someone screamed. Then everyone screamed.
I could feel my face burning. "You're insane," I said, trying not to smile.
"Yeah," he said softly, eyes glinting. "But only for you."
I took the flowers, heart pounding so loud I was sure half the school could hear it. "Yes, dummy. Of course."
The courtyard exploded in cheers. Saphira and Soraya were literally crying. Aveline was clapping. Cassian whistled.
And Evan — he just looked at me like the rest of the world had gone quiet.
Later, when everyone finally stopped teasing, he leaned close enough that only I could hear.
"Told you I don't share," he whispered, grin tugging at his lips.
I rolled my eyes, but I couldn't hide the smile. "You're impossible."
"Maybe," he said. "But now I'm yours."