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| An internal battle weighed within her |
Surrounded by metal lockers and textbooks, Tara struggled with her weight, finding it difficult to remain confident as her peers noticed her differences. Despite all of the obstacles, she continually fought on, determined to rise up and let her light shine. Her best friend Rafael Stepps was firmly at her side throughout every challenge that came their way.
His companionship and loyalty were Tara's source of guidance, reminding her that true friendship is deeper than physical appearance. With him by her side, she made it through high school, sharing happy moments, visions for the future, and aspirations they kept hidden from the world.
As the high school dance approached, Tara found herself entranced by another feeling—infatuation. Jaden, the most popular boy in school, set her heart a flutter with every smile and flutter of his eyelashes. From stolen glances in the cafeteria to heart-fluttering encounters in the hallways, Jaden became the center of Tara's reveries. The world around them seemed to fade away as they locked eyes during class.
Rafael noticed her determination and decided to help, joining her for workouts and assisting her with meal plans. As they exercised together and cooked meals, their bond became stronger.
“You think Jaden will ask you to the dance?"
“I wouldn't bet on it. Why would he want to go with me?"
Rafael grinned. “Why not? You're smart and gorgeous. He would be a fool not to ask you."
“Thanks,” Tara smiled.
“Are you thinking of going?"
“I haven't decided yet."
As the dance drew closer, Tara's optimism grew. She wished for a miracle that could lighten the burden of her weight on both her body and soul. Every night she would pray for Jaden to ask her to the dance. Day by day, Tara sought out her own answers and found courage within herself in order to overcome any obstacles in her way.
The weeks went by and Tara's transformation was remarkable. Stories of her dedication and impressive development spread around Oakwood High like wildfire. As she achieved success with her physical goals, Tara began to understand that the dance, weight loss, and Jaden were all components of a much bigger picture.
One day, as she was studying beneath a tree, Jaden approached her with an undeniable confidence that made her heart skip a beat.
“Jaden, hey."
Tara set her book down and sighed. “I need to keep my grades up."
Jaden gave an indifferent shrug. “Yeah, sure."
"Tara," Jaden began, a warm smile gracing his lips, "I was wondering if you'd do me the honor of being my date to the dance?"
Tara's heart raced as a wave of disbelief and exhilaration washed over her. She met his gaze, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of astonishment and joy. "Yes, Jaden, I'd love to."
The grin that spread across Jaden's face was infectious, their newfound connection forging a link between them that felt invigorating and surreal.
A few minutes later, Tara contacted Rafael over the phone. "Jaden invited me to dance," she said.
“That’s wonderful.” Rafael replied in a strained voice.
“You don't seem excited for me,” Tara pointed out.
“I am! I know you were hoping he'd ask you. I'll talk to you later."
“Wait--you're coming too?”
“I'll be there,” Rafael answered before hanging up.
The night of the dance was finally here and Tara stood before her mirror, beaming with pride. She had carefully applied makeup to enhance her features,
her dress exposed a bit of her shoulders, but at the same time, it was elegant and beautiful, with a gold chain that hung around her neck. She styled her hair into delicate waves cascading over her shoulders. She was ready for the night ahead.
The sound of knocking on the door snapped Tara out of her thoughts and set her heart racing.
She hurried to open it, revealing Jaden standing there, his muscles were tight beneath the fabric, making him look like a dark Spartan warrior ready to take on all who dare stand in his way. His eyes widened in admiration as they fell upon Tara, his words momentarily escaping him.
"Tara, you look absolutely stunning," Jaden finally managed, his voice tinged with sincere admiration.
Tara's cheeks flushed with a mix of bashfulness and pride as she offered a grateful smile. "Thank you, Jaden. You look pretty amazing yourself."
Jaden gestured with his arm, asking "Shall we?"
"Yes, let's," Tara replied.
Tara and Jaden enjoyed the drive to the dance.
A comfortable silence had filled their shared space, only interrupted by moments of soft laughter and relaxing conversation. The air was electric with anticipation, which made Tara feel content and at peace in Jaden’s company.
Arriving at the venue, the vibrant atmosphere enveloped them, the dance floor alive with a kaleidoscope of colors and movement.
Tara's heart swelled with excitement as Jaden extended his hand to her. His eyes shone with a seductive twinkle. "Would you like to dance?" he asked, and she couldn't help but accept the invitation.
Tara's smile mirrored his own as she placed her hand in his, their fingers intertwining naturally. They danced in sync with the music, their movements fluid and graceful, lost in the enchantment of the moment.
Later that evening, Jaden gently took Tara's hand, his expression warm and inviting. "Let's step outside for a moment, too many people in here."
Tara felt a spike of nerves as the mood around her changed. "It is stuffy in here," she exclaimed, fanning herself with her hand. "I could use some fresh air."
He leaned in, his voice dropping to a whisper. "You know, we could be more than just friends. I've noticed how much you've changed, how amazing you look now."
“Thank you.” Tara returned his smile with one of her own.
The two stepped out into the cool night air, and moved toward Jaden's vehicle.
A moment later, Tara and Jaden sat on the hood of his car in the soft parking lot of the school dance. The music of the school dance played in the background, creating a gentle beat to accompany their evening. The stars above sparkled like diamonds, casting a magical glow on the surroundings. Yet, the atmosphere between Tara and Jaden was growing tense. Jaden's flirtatious remarks were becoming increasingly forward, making Tara shift uncomfortably.
"You know, Tara," Jaden purred, his voice laden with an attempt at charm, "there's something about you that drives me crazy."
Tara forced a smile, her heart beating faster for all the wrong reasons. She gazed across the parking lot, searching for an escape from the suffocating situation. Just then, her phone buzzed with a text message.
Rafael's text appeared, asking if Tara was alright. "I saw you walk out with Jaden," it read. "Where are you?"
Without missing a beat, she replied. "No, I'm not okay. Jaden is making me feel really uncomfortable. We're out in the parking lot."
Moments later, Tara heard footsteps approaching, and there stood Rafael, a determined look in his eyes.
"Hey,Jaden, mind if I borrow Tara for a dance?" Rafael's tone was calm but carried a subtle edge.
Jaden was surprised to see Rafael as he looked up. "No man. You go ahead," he said.
Rafael reached out and offered his hand to Tara, with a comforting grin on his face. She instantly felt better when she shook his hand and let him lead her away from the vehicle.
Rafael murmured softly as they headed back to the school gym, "Are you sure you're alright?"
Tara nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "Yeah, thanks. He was getting a bit too forward."
Rafael's gaze held a hint of caution. "I really wanted to tell you about him, but I guessed you would never believe me about his notorious behavior around women."
Tara took a deep breath. "Yeah, it's true, I probably wouldn't have."
"You deserve better." Rafael said, receiving a nod of agreement from her. He smiled warmly. "What do you say, we start with a dance?"
Tara felt immense gratitude for Rafael's loyalty. As they swayed to the music, Tara found herself watching Jaden, who had now turned his attention to another girl. It was as if a curtain pulled back, revealing Jaden's real motives.
"You know, Tara," Rafael said softly, "sometimes the person who's been there for you all along is the one who truly cares."
Tara met Rafael's gaze, a newfound understanding passing between them. "You're right, Rafael. I'm lucky to have you as my friend."
As the music played on, Tara's clarity deepened. The person who had stood by her
through thick and thin, the one who saw her for who she truly was, was dancing with her right now.
Her white knight had been there for her all along. Slowly, it dawned on her that the friendship between them could evolve into something even more meaningful, and she welcomed what was to come.