Through the rumble of hundreds of conversations, Leora Weily stared hopefully at the Greek God himself. Max Jensen threw his arms about erratically, no doubt re-enacting the dance the pep squad had performed earlier. His numerous friends laughed, clutching their stomachs. Except for one. His name was Dominic. He was weird. Leora tended to hide when he approached her. Her friend, Sandra, elbowed her sharply in the ribs to regain her attention.

“I sincerely hope that you’re not staring at HIM.” Sandra said, exasperated. “What did he say to you at that party again? That you followed him around like a lost puppy looking for kibble.”

“Don’t remind me. A girl can seriously hope cant she? We’ve only got a few months of high school left. Then we’re free. I don’t see any reason why I shouldn’t be allowed to gaze upon that beautiful body for awhile. I’ll never see him again after that.”

“Whatever, Lee. I just don’t want you to get hurt. That’s all.”

“I know.”

From across the cafeteria, Max’s friend, Dominic watched Leora. He knew she was watching Max. She was always watching Max. When she had tried telling Max how she felt about him, and Max responded with the puppy comment, Dominic had been the one to follow her outside to see if she was okay. She saw him coming, and made up an excuse about having to check her make-up. Dominic knew she was lying, because she didn’t wear any. Ever. She didn’t need it. But Max couldn’t see that.

“So. Dom,” Max said, crossing his arms over his chest. “Your band still playin’ at the prom?”

“I guess.”

“You guys should see Dom play. He gets all into it, like this.” Max jumped up on his seat and strummed an air guitar while moving his lips to an imaginary tune. One only he knew. Max danced across the bench, kicking freshman and falling on juniors. Everyone laughed. Ha. Ha. Dominic was always the butt of the joke. The end-of-lunch bell sounded, and everyone left the cafeteria. Dominic grabbed his backpack and headed for study hall, determined to lure Leora into a conversation.