You’re standing near the back wall, where a gold-framed backdrop of silken stars and a crescent moon has been set up for prom photos. A photographer with a tired smile is gesturing couples forward, one by one.

Couple after couple steps up. They wrap arms around waists, rest heads on shoulders, laugh as the flash pops.

Your boyfriend, Jeremiah, is beside you. He’s in a crisp navy suit, the one you helped him pick out last month. His hair is neatly combed, and his hands are shoved deep into his pockets.

You’ve been waiting for your turn. Now, it’s almost here.

He doesn’t move.

He’s staring at the floor, jaw tight.