16 Chapter thirteen: First dance, first dance, first kiss

Brooklynn just finishes putting her hair up in a ponytail and curling it for the dance. The sudden knock on the door causes her to look up from fasining her shoes. On the outside is Josef dressed in a white vest with a black undershirt and dress pants. His wavy blonde hair tied up in a ponytail. She stares speechless for a minute before him clearing his throat makes her realize she didn't greet him yet. "G-Good evening! You look really nice."

"As do you. That dress looks really good on you."

"Thanks again for getting me this. I was suprised it fits just right."

"What can I say? Are you ready to go?" She nods and follows behind him down the hall.

Can't believe I'm actually going on a date with Josef...

They don't get far before he comes to a sudden stop, causing her to run into the back of him. "Sorry, is something wrong?"

"Yes, there is actually. Things can't be like this if we're to be on a 'date." Turning to her with quite a serious expression on his face.

"Huh?"

"You do look ravishing in that dress," he says, while running his fingers through her long hair. She freezes at his forwardness taking a step back.

"Josef, what's going on with you?"

"Like I said I will not put up this act anymore. I refuse to."

"Act? What are you talking about?"

"The way I always be at school. You don't actually believe that's the real me? I do what I need to keep things interesting there, and it does help all the girls throw themseleves at him. But for some reason it's different with you, Hira. It's something about you that intrigues me. That's why you're the one I asked to accompany me tonight. I don't ever go on actual 'dates' with anyone, but you're a special exception. You feel the same way towards me do you not? You wouldn't have agreed otherwise," he questions closing the distance.

"Ah, I mean of course I do..."

"That's excatly why for now on no more gimmicks. I'll be myself, the real Josef Huxley. Let's see if you still harbor the same feelings after I show you my true colors," he challenges. Brooklynn just realizes she's holding her breath as he pulls away. "The same thing goes for you too."

"W-What about me?"

"I want to see the real Hira also. Anyone can tell this isn't you," he points out simply, having her thoughts swirl into endless possibilities.

Could he know my secret?! No, it's no way that's possible. How would've he found out...

"That dress looked a little small and it was a lucky guess it fitted so well."

"What did you say?! It fits better than fine for your information!" To her suprise at the small outburst he only chuckles to himself. "What's so funny?"

"You just take everything so seriously. I'll have a lot of fun toying with you. Though that's the you I mean right there. Like the way I see act when you're around Sonny in class. That's the Hira I want here tonight. Not some googly eyed suck up. That's no difference to every other girl at this school."

Brooklynn finally understands what he means now. She has been self consciously putting up a front to try and win him over, but in the end it wouldn't lead to anything. Because that girl isn't the real her. She got so into her role as Hira Collins she forgets to just be Brooklynn. That's the true self he's asking for tonight.

"I think I get it now. Regardless if none of the you I saw was real I won't just back out on this date. I want to see what the real Josef is like."

He seems to be generally suprised by her answer before wearing a satisfied smile. "No more putting on airs then. Alright, with that settled let's go. I hate showing up late for things."

Heading out front they get a ride to the hall from a limo Josef has ready for them. Pretending to be surprised by the gesture, though riding in one of these is nothing new to her.

...

Walking inside the hall it's laid out in a beautiful pink theme. Tables are surrounding the walls leaving the center of the room clear for dancing. With all the food and decorations she can hardly believe the student council handled this on their own.

Her eyes lock with her guardian's who is sitting at a table by himself on the opposite side. Without thinking her feet head his direction to greet him. He looks nice dressed up having his messy ginger hair comed down neatly. Wearing a white collared shirt with a dark blue bowtie and matching dress pants. "Sonny, good evening. You look great."

"Oh, hi Hira and thanks, you also look really nice tonight...Josef." he adds with a mumble, giving the blonde next to her a glare.

"Sonny, how nice to see you're doing well. Where's your date?"

"Don't need one."

"I see, you must had nobody to bring then. I commend you for coming here all alone. Most would never dream showing up at an event like this by themselves. It really is admirable in it's own way," he says, with a smile that looks far from pleasant. The two of them never seem to get along in class either, but usually Josef wouldn't sink so low. She wonders does this have anything to do with him dropping his act. Before she can scold him for his rude remark Sonny speaks first.

"Single's the life at dances such as these, and besides it's much more harder for you. Maintaining that honey sweet smile to keep the swarm of bees around you all the time. If they just gave it a taste and found out the honey was actually bitter. I wonder how would they feel then?" His expression turning sour as a evil smirk comes across Sonny's face now.

"At least someone here doesn't mind that honey." He glances at her as she's still struggling to understand what they're even talking about. Both fake smiles are washed off the boys only starring each other down now. She definitely needs to break this up.

"Well, Hira and I have a night to enjoy. Hope you have fun here carrot top." Hearing Sonny let out a grunt as Josef drags her off the other direction.

"Hey, I can walk myself. That was a little harsh back there..." her voice trails off when noticing the hard expression on Josef's face. Almost as if he's recalling some harsh memory. Did Sonny say something to get under his skin as well? "...I just wish the two of you could try and get along better."

"With that dolt? Seems highly unlikely."

"That dolt is my friend you know!"

"...Enough about him. Let's get something to eat." He isn't listening to her at all, but not wanting to further ruin the mood follows behind towards the food tables. There are so many variety of dishes it's like a small buffet than little snacks for a school dance. She starts drooling thinking of all to pile on her plate.

"Someone seems happy with the selection."

"I didn't think it would be so much to choose from." They each grab a plate and are free to pick whatever dishes they want to eat. She was going to settle for just a bit but they agreed not to be putting on airs, so this shouldn't be like at the icecream palor. After they get their food the two take a seat at one of the available tables. Josef examines her plate a little suprised before a smalk smirk forms on his lips. "I didn't think most girls could pack away so much."

"Well I'm not most girls. Does that bother you?"

"Not at all. Eat away to your hearts content."

This gives them a chance to actually talk now from the few little times during school hours. She'd like to know more about the real Josef. "You guys did a really good job with planning this thing. Between the food and all the decorations it must've took a lot of work."

"A little bit. We have been working on this for quite some time."

"Do you enjoy being the head of the student council?"

"It's alright. Nothing so spectacular that I'd join in high school next year. It does look better for my parents this way."

"Your dad is the principal right?"

"Yes, people look to me because of it."

"Must be a lot of pressure."

"Perhaps, but that's what I work best under. What about you? What kind of town were you living in before coming here?" Turning the questions around on her now. It's not anything noteworthy to share about her small town back home.

"Ymirk Creek is nothing exciting to talk about. Small town in the boonies where everyone knows each other. I grew up there with my grandparents on my mother's side. This was my first time visiting the capital like this," she explains, taking another bite of her food.

"I see, so you lived a very sheltered lifestyle. If you don't mind me asking, why aren't you staying with your parents?"

"Oh, well they were never really around. Both was in a bad state and just wasn't cut out to be parents. That's the way my grandparents always left it as..." Brooklynn isn't aware of the minor details, but they neglected her for other habits when she was just a baby. That's when her grandparents decided to step in, and has been the three of them ever since.

"Sorry to hear that. It wasn't any of my business." Josef picking at his plate with hard expression. She had no problem in telling him, and doesn't want to bring the mood down.

"It's fine honestly. I was upset back then but now I'm genuinely happy. I have such a caring Grandma and Grandpa, plus two close friends that I wouldn't trade for the world."

"That's good then. For what it's worth having parents isn't always like it's cracked up to be. Mine are rarely ever home throwing themselves at their work. I see the maids more than spending time with either of them."

"That must be really lonely..." she mumbles, at a lost for words. Brooklynn's parents might've not been apart of her life, but always had others she can depend on. His are there but at the same time they aren't. Not having any siblings it has to be pretty boring at home.

"I've grown custom to this by now, so it's not that big of a deal. Anyway, you mentioned friends you have back home?" he asks, and she nods taking a sip of her drink.

"Yeah, I went to school with my besties, Dena and Ashley. I've known Dena since I was little but met Ashley just last year. Been bored to death without them there. You're really popular here with girls and guys alike. Seems to all come naturally to you."

"Does it? That's far from the truth...Back in grade school I was the overweight loser everyone singled out. So much to the point I got motivated to do something about my size. After I worked really hard during the summer I managed to slim down over the few months break. When starting middle school last year all of a sudden everyone wanted to be my friend. Even people who dissed me at my old school was now kissing up. It's pathetic really..."

He was bullied back in elementary school. I never would've guessed by his popularity. Is between that and his home life the reason why he acts the way he does now?

"Um, what do you do with your free time other than counsel?" she asks. Hoping to steer conversation towards a lighter subject.

"Tennis is one hobby of mine."

"Tennis?"

"Did you expect me to say something cliche like horseback riding?"

"Well..." It was that one daydream she had with the unicorn, but that's all it was. A daydream, and she can't confuse this with the real Josef.

"I've never been on a horse in my life, and I'd like it to stay that way. Sports like tennis and soccer are much more ideal to me. Actually I'd prefer a concert than this place."

"Really?"

"I'm not crazy about formal gatherings, though always dragged into them. A alternative rock concert would be entertaining."

"My friend Dena loves that kinda stuff too. I more so listen to pop when it comes to music. I don't have many hobbies to name, but do enjoy going to the movies, especially if it's a horror. Fishing with my Grandpa or just hanging around town with my friends."

"Oh, I didn't take you to be the type. I'm also a fan of a good horror flick. Maybe we can see one together sometime."

"That's sounds good." They continue to talk about various topics, and he's nothing like what she labeled him to be. Even if they're very different it does makes things interesting this way.

(Sonny POV)

The ginger gazes at them still chatting away from his table. Snapping out of his trance when a familiar voice grabs his attention. "Hey, Sonny!"

"Kite, Raylen. You two look nice." The pair stopping by his table. Kite has on white formal attire matching perfectly with Raylen's shiny silver dress.

"As do you. Where is Hira?"

"Over there with Josef," he mumbles in response to Raylen's question. The blue haired male frowns a second before shaking his head.

"I hope you didn't come just to sit sulking in a corner all night. There are tons of girls here so you should take advantage of that. Live a little."

"It would be no point in me buying a ticket if I wasn't. Well I don't wanna keep you guys from your date."

"Right, we're going to grab something to eat. Good luck!"

"Hope you have a good time," Raylen adds, before they take off together. Sonny letting out a sigh as he takes another sip of his drink.

Trying to distract his mind from them he focuses his attention on the couples getting up to dance. Then spotting a familiar face on the otherside of the room. The girl is average height having dark skin and hazel eyes. Her black hair did up in a bun and is wearing on a off the shoulders red dress. He's actually pretty good friends with Kaleigh as she's a student from his seventh hour class. She originally came with a large crowd, but now her friends are nowhere in sight. With nothing else better to do he approaches her table. "Evening, Kaleigh."

"Oh, hey Sonny. I didn't know you'd be here."

"Yeah, I decided it was worth stopping in for a bit."

"The council did go all out. It's better this year than last. Well if I wasn't sitting alone while my friends have dates, like a complete loser. If I'd just made a move sooner I might've had a chance..." Her hazel eyes looking at a pair dancing happily together. He recognizes the male from a few of his classes.

"Andrew you mean? You guys are childhood friends right?"

"Yeah, though it's always been a bit more than friendship in my heart. I was too scared to confess my feelings, and then a underclassman beat me to it. Really wish I would had just took the risk," she mutters, with a dower expression. The ginger understand excatly how she feels.

"I'm in the same boat." Pointing to Brooklynn and Josef laughing together.

"You're crushing on the transfer student, Hira? Can't believe Josef actually brought a date. Tough break but nobody stands a chance against the school's prince charming."

"I don't know what girls see in him. I mean he's obviously just playing a role. Anyways, do you want to dance with me then? Better than us sitting like logs all night." Sonny taking his friend's advice and besides, he doesn't want to let this last school dance go to waste. Thinking a moment she nods with a small smile.

"Sure, why not." Accepting his hand as he leads her out on the dance floor.

(Brooklynn POV)

With Josef and Brooklynn's food finished only their dessert is left. This vanilla swirl cake being ten times better than the soft serve from the parlor. "This cake is amazing! All the food here was so good."

"It's that well done? You're exaggerating."

"Honestly, whoever was in charge of this did a really great job." Before she can enjoy another bite he leans in quickly snagging the next spoonful himself. Brooklynn can hardly process what just happened as he leans back in his chair.

"It could be better but it isn't too bad."

Did he just...? Off the same spoon I was using without a moments hesitation.

This would be counted as an indirect kiss...

"Something wrong, Hira?"

"No, it's nothing!" she exclaims, when Raylen and Kite suddenly stop by for a quick hello. She can't get over how cute Raylen looks with her hair left down and wavy. Josef may had dropped the act around Sonny, but keeps his guard while the other two are present. After talking some time they take their leave.

When dessert is done they dispose of their trash, as a soft change of music starts to play. Her magenta eyes darts towards him without thinking. "You look like you wanna ask something? If there is anything you want then just say it."

"Well...I wanted us to dance though I'm not really that good. I don't know how I'll be out there..." Before she can ramble on any further he grasps her hand for them to join the crowd. Only to be stopped by two certain females blocking their way.

"Josef, we're so glad to see you! We were looking for you everywhere," Jennifer says with a smile. Then both girls giving her a cold glare.

"Nicole, Jennifer" she grumbles. The absolute last people Brooklynn wanted to run into tonight.

"You don't have to dance with her to be nice, Josef. You were plenty that just by inviting this poor girl out tonight," Nicole says, a cruel grin forming on her lips.

"Hira will probably just embarrass herself out there. Why don't you dance with us instead?" She glances at him waiting for a response to Jennifer's question. When his closed eyes finally open up he looks somewhat adjetatied.

"I asked her here tonight by choice, unlike the two of you. Now get out of our way and find someone else to annoy." Both their jaws nearly drop to the floor as they walk right through them. After standing dumbfounded for a second the girls stalk off out the room.

This was so much better than the daydream!

The blonde positioning his hands as the pair begin dancing together. Following his lead the best she can to the slow paced music. "They seem to be your biggest fans."

"Those girls irratate me to no end. Back in grade school they stood with the crowd that ridiculed me. However when coming here they started acting all flirtatious, and didn't even recognize who I was until they heard my name. I have no interest putting up with the likes of them."

Brooklynn nods setting her head on his shoulder. In this view she realizes Sonny isn't at his previous seat anymore. Eyes searching around the room she spots him dancing with another girl. That bringing a small smile to her face, and Josef gives a questionable look. "What are you grinning about?"

"Just happy that's all. Sorry I'm stepping on your feet so many times."

"You weren't lying when you said you couldn't dance."

"It's only because I haven't had much experience with this. You don't seem like you've had much either."

"I said I usually try and avoid things these things. However if this is your way of testing me I can play along."

"Huh?" He pulls the girl closer to him and she feels like her heart is going to burst. "Do you believe I'm inexperienced now?"

"T-This isn't the way I meant it!"

"I can feel your heart racing."

"I'm perfectly fine." Just managing to keep her emotions in check until the song ends.

...

The rest of the night soon passed away as Josef and herself arrive at the school dormitory. The boy offering to walk his date back to her room. "Here we are."

"Thank you for tonight. I had a good time," she says, turning to face him.

"It was entertaining for me as well."

"Goodnight, I'll see you tomorrow."

"Wait, Hira. Before you go..." The small gap has quickly disappeared in a instant. Emerald orbs gazing down he slowly leans in, and her own eyes squeeze shut.

His he really going to kiss me?! This will be my first time. Just stay calm, Brooke. Don't. freak. out!

After a minute she feels his lips pressing against her head. Looking up to catch Josef just pulling away. Her heart sinks for a moment as he takes a step back. "You look troubled. Is something the matter?"

"No, it's not like that..."

"Didn't actually expect me to kiss you on our first date? How greedy you are. You should really learn to be more patient."

"You...were doing that to mess with me, weren't you?!" she snaps, and he simply shrugs in response.

"Believe what you will. You're the one that jumped to conclusions. I'll see you at school." He did all that building up anticipation just to screw with her. This is reminding the burnette of a certain someone she knows. Though Josef is far worse than him.

I shouldn't have let him see me get my hopes up. I never would've imagined this was the true Josef at all. The way he likes to toy with people...

"Prince my butt I fell for a complete sadist! That's the only way to describe him." Does this make her a masochist because she puts up with it? Exhausted from tonight she heads inside to go straight to sleep.

A/N Suprised to see Josef's change of character? If you liked the chapter please show some love in the comments😘