On the night of Maria's party, Alex sat on his bed, staring out the window at the darkening sky, while Lucy meticulously applied her makeup in his mirror. The room was filled with the quiet rustle of fabric and the occasional click of a makeup compact.

Lucy, satisfied with her work, turned around to see Alex's brooding reflection.

"Are you still thinking about what happened at the hospital?" she asked gently.

Alex tore his gaze away from the window and looked at her, his eyes clouded with unease.

"You mean the part where Dan came out of his coma just to become the mouthpiece of a creepy forest entity? Kind of hard not to think about that," he replied, his voice tinged with sarcasm and fear.

He continued with a sigh, running a hand through his hair. "I mean, come on, we're being stalked by some supernatural force, and everyone wants to go to party but I guess things have been so... weird lately."

Lucy smiled faintly, trying to lighten the mood.

"At least a party might get everyone's minds off the whole Dylan situation," she suggested, turning back to the mirror to tuck her hair behind her ears.

Alex watched her, the tension easing slightly from his shoulders. He knew she was right, at least partially. Maybe a few hours of normalcy could help them all cope with the strangeness that had invaded their lives. But the fear lingered, a shadow at the back of his mind, refusing to be ignored.

Alex managed a smile. "At least one of us is excited about this."

Lucy beamed, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "I kind of am. I feel pretty good about tonight. It’s crazy, but even with everything going on, I think things are finally starting to go my way!"

Alex raised an eyebrow, his smile fading slightly. "Are you really, really sure that Maria's sudden change of heart has nothing to do with Dylan?"

At the mention of Dylan’s name, Lucy shuddered. "I... know it seems that way, but there’s no proof he can do something like that. Maybe she really is trying to turn over a new leaf, like Kimmy said."

Alex sighed, his concern evident. "I know you guys are friends, but it's impressive how positive you are about her."

Lucy turned back to the mirror, and in her reflection, Alex saw a blush creeping across her cheeks.

"I know you're just trying to look out for me, Alex," she said softly. "But you don't know her like I do... and this is a risk I’m willing to take."

Alex nodded, his expression serious but supportive. "Okay... but remember, I’ve got your back. If she ends up hurting you, she’s dead meat."

Lucy laughed, her smile widening as she pulled Alex into a tight hug. "Enough with all this serious business. We’ve got a party to get to, and you need to change!"

Alex grinned. "Change? I like this outfit."

But Lucy was adamant. "Come on, Alex, you can do better. Please?"

With a resigned sigh, Alex went into his changing room. A few minutes later, he emerged in a black T-shirt, a red jacket, and black jeans. Lucy gave him an approving nod, and they headed out together.

...

When they crossed the threshold into Maria's living room, they were met with a sea of Riverwood students. The air was filled with chatter, laughter, and the thumping beat of the music. The room buzzed with energy, every corner filled with groups of friends catching up and having a good time.

They were also greeted by a symphony of laughter and the warm glow of soft lights. The hallway, adorned with twinkling fairy lights, led them to the grand living room where the heart of the party was in full swing. The room was a vibrant blend of colors, with streamers and balloons of every shade creating a festive atmosphere.

The walls were decorated with elegant drapes and photos capturing joyful memories, adding a personal touch. Dominating the ceiling was a magnificent chandelier, its crystalline prisms refracting light into a kaleidoscope of sparkling brilliance that danced across the room.

The centerpiece was a long table, laden with a delectable array of food and drinks, from mouth-watering appetizers to an impressive cake that stood as a testament to the occasion's joy. Platters of exquisitely prepared hors d'oeuvres, succulent main courses, and an opulent cake—a towering confection of artistic prowess—enticed the guests with their sumptuous allure.

The air was filled with the aroma of freshly cooked delicacies, mingling with the sweet scent of blooming flowers arranged in elegant vases throughout the hall. Comfortable seating areas invited small groups to gather and converse, creating an intimate yet lively ambiance.

Maria stood in the corner, her expression one of mild annoyance as she scanned the room. Her eyes landed on Lucy, and she brightened almost instantly.

"Hey, Lucy! Glad you made it! Remember that horrible vase my mom used to have? You have to see the new travesty she bought."

Lucy laughed, intrigued. "Sure. It can't be uglier than the last one, can it?"

Maria giggled, her eyes sparkling with mischief as she took Lucy by the wrist. "Oh, you’d be surprised. Come on!"

Alex smiled as he made his way through the throng of students, eventually spotting Kimmy by the snack table.

"I'm guessing I have you to thank for the invite," he said, his grin widening.

Kimmy turned to him, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "So, you will?"

Alex chuckled. "I might. Once I figure out if this party’s fun or not."

"Even if it’s a total bust, at least you're killing it in that outfit," Kimmy teased, giving him an appreciative once-over.

Before Alex could respond, his gaze drifted across the room and landed on Levin, who was chatting with some guys near a corner. Levin looked up and, spotting Alex, smiled and gave a small wave. Alex waved back, a mix of familiarity and something more flickering in his eyes.

Kimmy noticed the exchange and tilted her head slightly. "I forgot that you guys kind of know each other from when we were kids."

Alex nodded. "Yeah, I keep bumping into him around town. We’ve gotten more acquainted recently."

Kimmy’s eyebrows rose in curiosity. "So, are you guys hanging out, like dating?"

Alex shrugged, trying to appear casual but feeling a flutter of uncertainty. "No, no, not at all. That would be strange and very very weird. But... what if we did date in the future? Would you be okay with that?"

Kimmy looked thoughtful for a moment, then smiled. "I guess we could."

A moment of silence stretched between them, filled with unspoken possibilities. The noise of the party seemed to fade into the background as Alex and Kimmy shared a quiet, introspective pause.

Alex gave Kimmy a concerned look. "I don't mean to be a buzzkill, but... how are you holding up?"

Kimmy smiled, her eyes betraying a hint of weariness. "Pretty good, considering everything that’s going on. At least I don’t feel like I’m going to die at this moment."

Just then, she spotted some of her friends entering the room. She turned back to Alex.

"My friends just walked in. Can I say 'hi' to them? Or why don’t you come find me later? We can catch up some more."

Alex nodded. "Sure, catch up with you later."

As Kimmy moved to greet her friends, Alex squeezed through the dense crowd in the living room, making his way over to Lucy and Maria, who were chatting animatedly next to a bowl of punch.

"So, do you know what you're gonna wear to homecoming?" Lucy was asking Maria. "I was thinking of getting a long dress, but Maria says I should go knee-length."

Maria grinned. "I was just saying you’d look awesome in a shorter dress."

Alex chimed in with a grin of his own. "Nothing wrong with showing a little legs. Plus, it’s not like it’s prom or anything."

Maria’s smile widened. "Never thought Alex and I would be on the same side, but a short dress will be much easier to dance in."

Lucy laughed, a lightness in her eyes. "I guess that’s a good point. It’s been so long since I’ve really danced. So, Alex, do you know who you’re going with?"

Alex hesitated, feeling a bit flustered. "Uh... no. Not yet."

Maria laughed, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "Better hurry up, or all the good ones will be gone. And by 'good ones,' I mean the two losers in the world who might actually date you."

She then turned to Lucy with a playful grin. "Lucy’s gonna be my date."

Lucy blushed at Maria’s words, her cheeks turning a rosy hue. Maria gave her a quick kiss on the lips before breezing past Alex. "I’ll be right back. I’m going to tell Emma."

Alex watched Maria disappear into the crowd, then turned back to Lucy.

"Looks like everything’s going well. I’ll leave you to it. Enjoy."

He winked at Lucy, who responded with a bemused smile. As Alex turned away, he passed Maria heading in the other direction. He caught her by the arm, his expression serious. "I don’t know what you’re playing at, but if you do anything to hurt Lucy..."

Maria rolled her eyes, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Oh please! You’re about as threatening as a puppy. Lucy can take care of herself, and I don't need you telling me who's the weakest among the guys."

She wrenched her arm free and strutted back to where Lily stood. Alex sighed, frustration evident on his face, and slipped out the sliding door to the backyard, seeking a moment of peace.

Outside, the night air was cool and refreshing. Alex spotted Andy with his friends, Korban and Emma was there too, chatting animatedly near the garden. The backyard was a stark contrast to the crowded, noisy interior, offering a small sanctuary amidst the chaos.

Alex approached them, managing a smile. "Hey, guys."

Andy looked up, grinning. "Alex! Glad you made it. You enjoying the party?"

Alex shrugged, leaning against the wooden fence. "It’s something, alright."

Korban chuckled. "That’s the spirit. We were just talking about the upcoming homecoming dance."

Emma nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah, any plans yet? Got your eye on anyone special?"

Alex hesitated, "Not really. Still figuring things out."

Andy clapped him on the shoulder. "Well, you’ve got time. Just don’t wait too long. You know how fast things change around here."

Alex nodded, appreciating the advice. As they continued talking, he felt a bit more at ease, grateful for the distraction and the company. The night was still young, and despite the underlying tensions, he hoped for a few moments of normalcy and fun.

Alex then whirled around to see Noah standing behind him, casually tossing potato chips into the pool one by one.

"Whoa, Noah. I didn’t see you there," Alex said, startled.

Noah grinned. "Just one of my many skills."

With a chuckle, Noah got up and settled onto a nearby lounge chair. Alex took the seat across from him, the two friends now facing each other in the dim light of the backyard.

"So, you having fun?" Alex asked, genuinely curious.

"Yeah, I guess. Things could be better, but it beats being at home," Noah replied with a shrug, his eyes reflecting a hint of underlying melancholy.

Alex leaned forward, a determined look on his face. "Come on, the night is still young. And I know just the way to lift your spirits."

Noah laughed, shaking his head. "Alright, lead the way."

With a grin, Alex stood up and motioned for Noah to follow him. They made their way around the edge of the pool, skirting the clusters of partygoers. The further they went, the quieter it became, the sounds of the party fading into the background.

Alex leaned back, looking at Noah with curiosity. "So, why did you decide to come?"

Noah shrugged, his gaze distant. "I came because, well, being with your friends in a place you hate is still better than being alone, right?"

Without waiting for Alex's response, Noah walked over to the chrome-plated grill nearby and ran a finger across its lid, lost in thought. The silence stretched between them, filled only with the distant sounds of the party.

Alex broke the silence, trying to lighten the mood. "Please tell me you’re going to grill us up something. I wouldn’t turn that down."

Noah looked up with a small smile. "I could make a pretty good Philly cheesesteak with hot peppers. And with a little bit of my special au jus? Bet you won’t find a better sandwich."

Alex raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "I didn’t know you were into cooking."

Noah’s smile faded slightly, replaced with a hint of nostalgia. "I learned because I always had to ate frozen dinners. My parents were always too busy to make dinner, and June was sick a lot, so I learned for her. The first thing I ever made on the stove was grilled cheese for her. She said it tasted like happiness."

Alex smiled, touched by the story. Noah continued, his voice filled with a mix of hope and doubt.

"I’d love to open my own diner one day. Sandwiches, burgers, pizza, French fries, onion rings, fried potato salad, and so much more... but I don’t think it will happen, though."

"Why not?" Alex asked, his tone encouraging.

Noah then sighed, leaning against the grill. "It’s just... dreams like that feel out of reach sometimes. There’s a lot to figure out, a lot of obstacles. And with everything going on... it’s hard to see it happening."

He sighed deeply and continued. "No money. I’ll be lucky to get into Riverwood Community College. What chance do I have of going to an actual culinary school? Then there’s business school, marketing classes... it’s just not possible."

Alex met his gaze, unwavering. "You still haven’t graduated. You’ve got time to figure it out."

Noah shook his head, frustration evident. "That doesn’t change the facts."

Alex leaned in, his voice firm. "That just makes you a better candidate for financial aid! You’re looking at this entirely the wrong way."

Noah hesitated, uncertainty in his eyes. "I don’t know."

Alex stepped closer, his expression sincere. "You never know, Noah. You’ve got the passion and the skill. Sometimes, it’s just about taking that first step. And who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll all be hanging out at your diner, eating the best cheesesteaks in town."

Alex then placed a reassuring hand on Noah’s shoulder. "Say it with me: 'I am going to culinary school.'"

Noah mumbled, "I am... going to culinary school."

Alex grinned. "What was that?"

Noah took a deep breath, then smiled brightly. "I am going to culinary school."

Alex turned and shouted to the crowd, "Did you hear that, guys? Noah is going to culinary school!"

From a corner of the yard, Andy raised his drink and shouted back, "Yay! Live the truth, man!"

Dwayne, in his usual fashion, was loudly munching on a burger when he hollered across the backyard, “I’m gonna be your first and daily customer, Noah!”

The enthusiasm in Dwayne's voice was so intense that a few nearby partygoers turned their heads, bemused smiles creeping across their faces.

Noah chuckled, the laughter bubbling up in a way that felt almost freeing, a welcome release from the tension of the evening.

“Ugh! I just hope this guy won’t eat my whole diner.”

Dwayne, completely unfazed by the mild jab, waved his burger in the air like a victory flag.

“No promises, Noah! Your Philly cheesesteak better be ready to meet its biggest fan!”

Alex, watching the exchange, couldn't help but grin. The banter was a refreshing reminder of the simpler, fun moments amidst all the chaos. He leaned over to Noah, a mischievous twinkle in his eye.

“Guess you’ll have to keep a special stash just for him.”

Noah nodded sagely, pretending to stroke an imaginary beard. “I’ll need a ‘Dwayne’s Emergency Reserve.’

Laughter erupted around them, the tension of the evening momentarily forgotten in the lighthearted exchange.

Noah looked at Alex, a spark of hope rekindling in his eyes.

"Thanks, Alex. It was refreshing, and it means a lot coming from you that you believe in me."

They stood there for a moment, the night air cool and filled with unspoken dreams. Despite the uncertainty of the future, there was a shared understanding between them—sometimes, having someone believe in you is the first step toward making those dreams a reality.

Alex walked back into the house, the energy of the party washing over him. He weaved through the crowd until he spotted Ava, surrounded by a small group of mesmerized onlookers.

Alex couldn't help but wonder what she was doing...