Julian: They're cheering because you're the strongest person in this entire room.
Maya: My legs feel so heavy, but... it feels like I'm flying!
Julian: Hold on tight. We're about to turn!
The DJ suddenly cranked the volume to maximum, playing a high-energy pop beat that pulsed through the floorboards. Julian shifted his weight, smoothly spinning Maya around in a wide circle.
Her blue gown flared out like an ocean wave, catching the purple and gold strobe lights hanging from the rafters. The crowd erupted into loud cheers, shouting Maya's name over the music.
Student 1: Go Maya! Show them how it's done!
Student 2: That's amazing! Look at her go!
Beth: This is unbelievable! She's stealing all the attention! We were supposed to be named Prom Royalty tonight!
Chloe: Beth, look at everyone... nobody is paying attention to us anymore.
Beth: Because they're feeling sorry for her! It's just a sympathy show!
Julian: Keep spinning, Maya! Focus on the rhythm!
Maya took another step, her metallic joints clicking in time with the bass. She locked her stance, letting Julian spin her under his arm before pulling her back into a confident embrace.
Maya: I forgot how good it feels to dance!
Julian: You didn't forget anything. It's in your blood.
Maya: Thank you, Julian. You saved my life tonight. I was ready to leave and never come back.
Julian: I didn't save anything. You stood up on your own two feet. Literally.
The crowd pulled back, forming a massive circle around Julian and Maya, leaving the entire center of the floor completely open for them.
Beth: Come on, Chloe, let's go get our drinks. This is ridiculous.
Chloe: Beth... maybe we should just apologize? Everyone is looking at us like we're monsters.
Beth: Apologize to a girl in metal legs? Never! My family's estate is worth millions! I don't apologize to anyone!
Suddenly, the principal of the high school stepped onto the stage, holding a wireless microphone and two gold envelopes.
Principal: Excuse me, students! May I have your attention please for the announcement of your Prom Royalty!
The music turned down slightly, though the energy in the room remained electrified.
Beth: Finally! See? The votes were turned in two hours ago. My parents donated the entire floral budget! I'm winning Queen!
Principal: Tonight, we had an overwhelming surge of write-in ballots submitted over the last thirty minutes!
Beth's confident smirk flickered for a fraction of a second.
Beth: Write-in ballots? What is he talking about?