He doesn't follow Janice

He watches the door close behind Janice for a moment.

Aria turns around and catches him looking.

Aria: everything okay?

Miles: yeah. Fine.

She studies him for exactly one second with those sharp dark eyes that miss nothing, then glances toward the side exit and back at him. Whatever she clocks she keeps to herself, reaching up and straightening his collar instead.

Aria: good. Then pay attention to your date.

She turns back around and pulls him closer by the lapel, her back against him again, the music loud and the floor packed around them.

He puts his hands on her waist and lets the moment with Janice dissolve into the noise.

Some doors are better left unopened.

They stay on the floor through two more songs, the energy building around them, the night finding its rhythm. Then the music fades and the DJ's voice cuts through the room.

DJ: alright seniors, this is the moment you've all been waiting for. Can everyone please gather around. It's time to announce your prom king and queen.

The crowd shifts and tightens, phones coming out, the noise level dropping into an anticipatory hum. Aria laces her fingers through his and pulls him toward the front.

Aria: She looks up at him with a small smile. This is your moment. Try not to look too ****.

Miles: I never look ****.

She squeezes his hand once.

Aria: I know.