As they made their way into the gymnasium, the music was already blaring and people were dancing. The lights were dimmed, casting the room in a soft, golden glow. Streamers and balloons were hanging from the ceiling, and a photo booth was set up in the corner. It was your typical prom scene, but Delaney couldn't help but feel the excitement growing within her. She was here, with her best friends, and she knew it was going to be an amazing night.

Delaney's heart raced as she walked into the gym with Austin by her side. The energy of the prom night was undeniable, the music pulsing through the room, the laughter and chatter of classmates filling the air. It was a scene straight out of a movie, but for Delaney, it felt like it could be something more. She stole a glance at Austin, who was still in his usual playful mode, joking around with their friends. But there was a subtle shift in the way he looked at her tonight, something different in his gaze. Maybe it was just wishful thinking, but Delaney couldn't help but feel like there was a deeper connection between them. Like maybe, he could feel the same as she does.

As the night went on, Delaney and Austin spent the evening dancing and having fun with their friends. Their laughter echoed through the air, their smiles bright and infectious. They were two peas in a pod, always having fun and enjoying each other's company. The dance floor was crowded, the music loud and thumping, but none of that mattered. All that mattered was that they were together, enjoying every minute of this special night. Prom was in full swing and the students were having the time of their lives.

Austin and Delaney had found out Dez had brought in Trish's boyfriend, Jace, to surprise her. Delaney found that sweet, but Trish had rambled to them nervously about how now she's in a dilemma. She had agreed to go to prom as Chuck's date since her boyfriend (who had gotten a hurt leg) thought he wouldn't be able to be there. And now Trish was asking them to help her distract one or the other.

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but I don't want to break Chuck's heart." Trish confessed.

"Huh. Put a dress on you and suddenly you're all ladylike." Austin teased. Though he immediately regretted it when he received a harsh look from Trish that shut him up.

"Trish, blondie's right though. You should be honest and tell them the truth," Delaney suggests gently, her voice soft but firm. "It's going to hurt either way if you keep this secret, and honestly, they'll probably appreciate you being upfront with them. It's better than leading them on, you know?"

"I know someone who should be honest and straightforward." Trish retorted, sending them both a knowing look. They both avoided the pointed gaze, their cheeks flushing at the unspoken suggestion. It wasn't the first time Trish had teased them about their own unresolved feelings, but the timing felt different now. Prom had a way of making everything feel more significant, like each moment was charged with potential.

"Hey, Trish, don't change the subject. We're talking about you and your dilemma." Austin argued, trying to shift the attention back to her.

Trish sighs, running a hand through her hair. "Okay, fine, whatever, I'll think about it." She muttered before walking away.

Delaney hated how awkward it suddenly became. The air between them seemed to shift, and for a moment, it was as if everyone in their group could sense the underlying tension that had been building up all night. Delaney and Austin exchanged a glance, and for the briefest second, it felt like the world around them faded away.

"Do you think she'll be okay?" Delaney asked, her voice softer than usual, trying to bring the focus back to their friends and away from the lingering uncertainty between her and Austin.

Austin shrugs, though there was something in his eyes that suggested he wasn't entirely distracted by Trish's drama. "She'll figure it out. It's Trish, after all."

Delaney laughs, nodding. "Right. She's a strong, independent woman. If anyone can handle this situation, it's her." She a little off-balance, but the laughter and ease of their conversation helped calm her nerves. The shift in their dynamic had been subtle, but Delaney couldn't ignore it. Every glance, every touch, it felt like there was something more. But she couldn't bring herself to say anything—not when the night was supposed to be about fun and friendship.

Austin's playful grin returned, breaking the brief silence. "Hey, you wanna go take a picture at the photo booth?" he asked, his voice light and inviting.

Delaney's heart fluttered as she smiled at him. "Sure, why not?"

They walked over to the photo booth, where their friends had already started taking goofy pictures. As Austin wrapped his arm around her for the photo, Delaney couldn't help but feel a spark of something deeper. Was it just the magic of prom, or was there something more between them? As the camera flashed, she glanced up at him, catching him already looking at her. His eyes softened for a moment, and Delaney felt her breath catch in her throat. Maybe it was't all in her head after all.

"Gotcha!" Austin said, breaking the moment with his usual grin, his playful demeanor back in full force. But Delaney couldn't shake the feeling that something had shifted, something she wasn't quite ready to face.

"Okay, now we have to do a silly one." She teased, trying to cover the brief vulnerability she felt.

"Anything for you, Laney." Austin gave her a wink, and Delaney felt a rush of warmth flood her chest. There was something in his voice, in the way he said her name, that made her wonder if the night could be more than just friends. As the evening continued, their laughter and closeness were undeniable. Yet, deep inside, Delaney couldn't shake the feeling that the night might change everything. Would it?

****

After getting some photos in the photobooth they found a spot to sit down and relax. Delaney had never been one to stay up all night, especially when there was school the next day, but prom was different. She couldn't explain it, but there was a certain energy in the air that kept her awake and buzzing. And sitting next to Austin wasn't helping matters. Every time their hands brushed or he looked at her with that dazzling smile, her heart skipped a beat. She had no idea what to do with all these emotions swirling inside her. She wanted to say something, but the words died on her lips every time she tried. She didn't want to ruin the moment or the special night they were sharing. So she kept quiet, her feelings simmering just below the surface.

They currently were getting some punch, Austin had came up with the idea of mixing some drinks to see what flavor it would make and Delaney had to admit the ones they made were pretty good. Despite that awkwad moment earlier, things have returned to their normal routine, and Delaney was relieved. The last thing she wanted was to ruin the night with her stupid, pesky feelings. Trish suddenly came over to them, looking upset and frantic, takg two of the mixed drink cups. "Give me two of those. I told both of my dates I'd get them drinks."

"You still haven't told them?" Delaney asked in surprise.

"Have you told you know who about you know what?" Trish countered, earning a small glare from her friend.

Delaney rolled her eyes, trying to hide the blush creeping up her neck. "You just had to bring that up, huh?" She grumbled, but her voice had a nervous edge to it. She wasn't sure whether to laugh or get defensive. Her unresolved feelings about Austin were a secret she had kept to herself for so long, and Trish knew exactly how to poke at that sensitive spot.

Trish grins, shrugging her shoulders. "What? I was just asking a question." She replied, her tone innocent.

"What are you guys talking about?" Austin asked, looking confused.

"Nothing." Both girls answered in unison, only confusing him further.

"By the way, have any of you seen Ally and Finn?" Trish inquired, glancing around the crowded room in confusion.

Now that the couple was bought up, Delaney realized she hadn't seen them much. She, Austin, and the others parted ways after arriving together and getting a group photo. "I haven't seen them in a while, actually. They've probably gone off to dance or something." She looked around the room, smiling when she spotted the couple currently slow dancing to a soft love song. Her heart swells with joy. It was a sight to behold, her two best friends finally admitting their feelings and embracing them. She was happy the two have been happily together for a month now and honestly jealous too. She wished she could just confess to Austin and put her feelings out in the open. But something stopped her, something held her back. Maybe it was fear, or maybe it was the uncertainty of what it would mean for their friendship. She had no idea, but seeing Ally and Finn so happy and in love only made her yearn for the same thing.

"There they are, looking as cute as ever." She commented, watching the pair as they swayed slowly to the music. Her heart ached while side glancing at Austin, wishing he was hers. But instead, she was just stuck in this awkward, unspoken limbo between friendship and something more. It was frustrating and painful, and Delaney couldn't help but wonder when—or if—the pain would end.

Trish nods, a fond smile on her face. "Yeah, they're pretty adorable, aren't they?" She glances over at the couple before turning her attention back to her friends. "Okay, I'll see you guys later. Wish me luck with the whole date dilemma."

Delaney chuckles, giving her friend a thumbs up. "You'll do great. Just be honest and open. It'll all work out, trust me."

"Same goes to you." Trish called out as she walked away.

Delaney's face flushes while Austin glances at her in confusion. "What was that about?" He asked.

"Oh, um, nothing." Delaney replies, her cheeks pink as she tried to act nonchalant. She couldn't even tell him her feelings, even when they were alone and away from their friends. "Let's go sit down for a bit, kinad tired from dancing." She muttered, grabbing her drink and walking to their table. She avoided his gaze, her heart fluttering and face warm.

"Oh, uh, yeah, sure." Austin followed her, his brows furrowed. He could tell something was off with Delaney, but he didn't push it. He followed her to the table, trying to shake off the curiosity gnawing at him. They both sat down, the music thumping in the background, but it felt quieter somehow, like the world had narrowed to just the two of them.

Delaney took a sip of her punch, trying to steady her racing heart. She could feel Austin's gaze on her, though she kept her eyes trained on her drink. She knew that Trish's teasing had made things even more complicated in her head. It was one thing to hide her feelings from Austin while they were surrounded by their friends, but now, when they were alone, the tension was palpable. She tried to keep her mind on the night, and not the fact that she was secretly yearning for more with Austin.

"So, uh, prom's pretty cool, huh?" Austin spoke up, his voice soft and nervous.

"Yeah, it is." Delaney's reply was short, but she couldn't bring herself to say much else. All the emotions that were threatening to burst through were too overwhelming. She couldn't focus on anything else. She hated it was awkward again.

The silence stretched between them, both teenagers lost in their thoughts. Austin's hand was resting on the table, close enough for Delaney to reach out and touch him, to hold his hand. She felt that urge to do so, to take the chance, but she hesitated. She didn't want to ruin the beautiful friendship they have built over the years. They were best friends, and Delaney would never risk losing that. Though she swore she felt his fingers brush hers, a silent invitation to bridge the gap. She swallowed thickly, her heart pounding in her ears. The air between them was charged with something, but neither of them could quite place it. It was like the world had paused, waiting with bated breath to see what would happen next.

Just as she was about to gather the courage to look at him, their moment was interrupted by someone speaking into the microphone. They quickly pull apart as their friends all gather by them and everyone began to quiet down. "Hey, everyone! I'm Kimmy, your prom chairwoman. I hope you're all enjoying tonight. I'm not. My date has chickenpox." Delaney didn't understand why Kimmy always had to be so perky. Even when explaining something as sad as her date having chickenpox, she was still smiling. Clearly fake though. "Anyway, it's time to announce this year's prom queen and king!" Everyone claps at that announcement. "This year's prom king is...Austin Moon!"

Delaney smiles brightly at her best friend, who looked surprised and flattered. "Are you shocked you're prom king?" She asks in disbelief, nudging him. "You're Austin Monica Moon-"

"Seriously, you had to use my middle name again?" Austin groaned, though he was grinning.

She shrugs, grinning back at him. "Point is, everyone loves you and adores you." She says. "Of course you'd win."

Austin chuckles, his cheeks slightly red. "Thanks, Laney." He kissed her cheek before he stood and went to get on stage to get his crown, leaving Delaney flustered and trying to act like she wasn't at the sudden kiss on her cheek. She watched him get on stage and Kimmy placing the crown on his head after he bent down to make it easier for her. Delaney couldn't help but let her gaze linger on him. He looked so good with the crown and her heart fluttered in her chest as she watched him. The room seemed to fade into the background as her eyes were locked on Austin. His smile, the way the crown fit perfectly on his head—it all made him look so incredibly...Perfect. Delaney's cheeks flushed again, but this time, it wasn't just from embarrassment. She felt a strange mix of pride and longing that she couldn't quite explain. Austin had always been someone special to her, but tonight—tonight was different. There was a heaviness in the air, a sense of finality, as though something was about to change, and Delaney wasn't sure if she was ready for it.

"And this year's prom queen is...Delaney Ellington!" Kimmy announced after a drumroll. Delaney's heart skipped a beat. The room seemed to hold its breath as Kimmy's words echoed through the space. For a moment, Delaney couldn't move, the sound of her name still ringing in her ears, too surreal to process. Her friends were cheering for her, though her mind was racing, the shock slowly settling in. She never imagined she'd be prom queen, especially when there were so many other popular girls in their school. And yet, here she was, getting up to take her crown from Kimmy.

Her gaze never left Austin's as she walked to the stage. His gaze softened, a tender and proud smile on his face. He was looking at her like she was the only person in the room, and it made her heart race. As she approached him, he reached out his hand, helping her onto the stage. Butterflies fluttered in her stomach at his thoughtfulness and she gave him a small, appreciative smile. He always knew just what to do to make her feel special.

Kimmy placed the crown on her head, giving her a tight-lipped smile. Delaney ignored the look, too focused on the boy in front of her. Everything around them seemed to fade away, the cheers and clapping muted in the background. All she could focus on was Austin, his eyes twinkling in the lights, his smile wide and sincere. In that moment, it felt like they were the only two people in the world. Delaney had never felt closer to him than she did now, with their hearts and hopes laid bare before each other.

Austin leans in to pull her in a hug and Delaney melted against him. Her nerves were fading, the shock wearing off as her brain began to register what was happening. She had won prom queen, and Austin was her king. It was almost too good to be true, like a dream come true. Now if only she could tell him how she feels. She swallowed hard, her thoughts racing. The hug felt different this time—warmer, deeper, as if everything they had built up over the years was finally coming to a head. It was as though they both knew this moment was more than just a friendly embrace. Delaney's heart hammered in her chest, and her mind screamed for her to say something, to tell Austin what had been growing inside her for so long. But the words wouldn't come. She couldn't risk ruining the bond they had, not when everything felt so perfect, so fragile. Delaney pulled back slightly, looking up at Austin, who was still holding her gently by the waist. He smiled at her, that same familiar grin, but there was something new in his eyes—a hint of something unspoken, something that made Delaney's heart skip.

"You okay?" Austin asked, his voice low and soft, as if he could sense the storm brewing inside her.

Delaney nods, though she was far from okay. "Yeah...I just...Can't believe it," She said, her voice barely a whisper. "I mean, you, prom king? Me, prom queen? Seems..."

"Like a dream?" Austin finishes for her, and she nodded again. He smiles,and Delaney felt her breath catch at his tender expression. "I know, right?" He chuckles. "We're royalty now." He nudged her playfully, making her laugh and nod in agreement.

Kimmy then announced it was time for their slow dance as prom king and queen. "Queen Delaney," Austin starts teasingly, dramatically offering his hand to her. "May I have this dance?"

Delaney laughs, accepting his hand. "Why, of course, King Austin. I'd be honored." She played along, following him to the middle of the floor as the spotlight shone down on them. Ignoring the butterflies at feeling his hand in hers and the nerves of everyone watching them dance, they took their positions. He placed one hand on the small of her back, the other in her hand, while she rested her free hand on his shoulder. Their eyes locked, and Delaney felt a rush of heat flood her body. There was a moment of silence, the only sound was the music filling the room, before Austin began to lead her in a gentle waltz.

Delaney felt herself melting into the rhythm, her body moving instinctively. She had always loved dancing, and with Austin, it was effortless. He guided her effortlessly around the floor, their bodies moving in perfect harmony. As the song went on, the pair found themselves getting closer and closer, until their faces were mere inches apart. It was almost as if they had already came up with this dance before, their steps matching perfectly, their bodies fitting together like puzzle pieces.

As the song continued, the crowd started to thin, people going back to their dates or whatever they were doing before. All their friends stayed though, watching them, smiling. They knew the two teens were pining for each other and wanted nothing more than to get them together. But neither one had admitted their feelings for each other, which made it a bit frustrating. However, they all knew something was bound to change tonight. The air was too tense, the night was too special, and the looks between the two were too meaningful.

As the song reached its final crescendo, Austin dipped Delaney, his gaze never leaving hers. Delaney's heart pounded in her chest, the intensity of his stare sending a rush of heat through her body. His lips were inches from hers, his breath warm and sweet. She wanted to kiss him so badly, but she held back. She couldn't risk it.

Suddenly, the music stopped, and the spell was broken. Austin pulled her back up, his hands lingering on her waist, and the room erupted in applause. They both laughed awkwardly, their cheeks flushed. "That was...Something." Austin said, his voice softer than usual, his eyes filled with a warmth and tenderness that made Delaney's heart flutter.

"Yeah, it was." Delaney murmured, unable to take her eyes off him. His gaze was locked on her, as if she was the only person in the room, and it made her heart pound. She had to tell him. If she didn't, she knew she'd regret it. Taking a deep breath, she mustered her courage and spoke the words that had been dancing on her tongue for months. "Austin, I...I have to tell you something."

"Yeah, what is it?" Austin asked, his brows furrowed, a curious look on his face.

Delaney opened her mouth to speak, but the words died on her lips. What if he didn't feel the same way? What if she ruined everything by admitting her feelings? Fear and uncertainty gripped her heart and after realizing they were standing in front of their whole school, Delaney decided she'd rather confess to him privately. 

"Actually, come with me." She reached out to grab his wrist and tug him with her before she could stop herself. Austin was confused and curious, his heart fluttering at her touch, but he still followed her. He would follow her anywhere.

Their friends exchanged looks when they caught sight of the two teens leaving the gym, but nobody commented. They knew it would happen eventually, and tonight seemed like the perfect night for something special to happen between the pair. 

A/N ooh so close to their confession !!