The Photo

Hi there, I don't know what led you here, but thanks for reading.

PROM

I still remember the first interaction we had with each other. I was talking with the school counselor about my future and was saved by the bell. When I was leaving the school building, that's when you blatantly asked me "Do you have a ride for prom?". It caught me off guard, which is a recurring theme in our friendship. I barely even knew who you were at the time. My response to you was yes and the next thing I know we're with both of our dates cramped into my dad's SUV. Prom night was supposed to be the night of our lives, yeah that was bullshit.

The girl I brought with me to prom, honestly I had like no feelings for her whatsoever. I honestly feel kind of bad for her now because I know she liked me, but I could not reciprocate. Back to the moment at hand, after we arrived at the steps of the horse track venue. While it sounds terrible to say, truth is that the venue was majestic actually. I think I would have had a ton at prom if I didn't go with you.

I wanted to go separate ways once we arrived, but you insisted we stay together and get photos. Next thing I know both of our dates are agreeing with you and I was unable to voice my opinion. I don't know what it was, but I could never argue with you. What a disaster that idea turned out to be. The lines for prom photos were horrendous. It was like waiting in line for a ride you knew was going to suck.

"For the memories!" you chanted; however, I hid the feeling I had that we would have been better experiencing the different foods, drinks, and horse carriage the venue provided for us. But no, we had to waste up to like an hour and a half to take a photo. You also had to string me along with your friend group. Everyone there was practically a stranger to me and here I was being forced to adapt to a situation I didn't want to be in. The only person I could relate to was your prom date, which was kind of sad because you reciprocate, but it was obvious he was into you.

All I could do in line was mingle, and mildly complain to you. I don't remember what I said, but I noticed you hit me while we were in line. I thought it was really cute that you were also frustrated at the situation so I continued to tease you some more. The hit marks were worth it to see your face bunch up like a pug.

When we finally arrived to take a photo, it was super awkward for me. Here I was with people I barely knew being forced to smile, so obviously the photo came out terrible. I will never forget it. Everyone else around us had so much more fun. After we got out of the line, trying to experience the rest of the venue felt like a rush. I did not have time to enjoy anything. Seriously all I got from it was a stupid photo. A photo. A photo that reminds me of how terrible that night was. A photo that reminds me of you. A photo that reminds me of how long we stood in line together. A photo I still have. A photo I still look at. A photo that reminds me of us. A photo that reminds me that I destroyed us. A photo that tells me it's over.A photo that tells me I fucked up. There is no going back from what I've done. However, I can't stop anymore I need to move on to the next story...