you should see me in a crown

[Cactus]

The moment had passed. What they'd shared - then and now - had expired, but they would always have it, no matter where they went. Remembering once more that the outside world existed, Connor couldn't place the song that replaced the one they'd danced to. Some generic hip-hop beat, or pop track; he didn't know, didn't care. Ivy backed up a few paces, careful not to knock into any of the dancing seniors, and acknowledged the post-prom plans. He'd known that they'd end up at the same spot, but to him, she was more Bret's girlfriend than she was his ex.

At least, that's how she was now. Moment notwithstanding, that had not changed between them.

Like the breeze that filtered through the event hall as someone accidentally left too many doors open, Ivy was gone as quickly, back into the throng of people. Probably to find Bret, or Myles, or a washroom, or who the hell knew, or cared? That wasn't his problem anymore. He'd had his moment - their moment - and he was thankful for it.

Of course, Connor Lorenzen knew that in order to have a moment of your own, there was always a price to be paid. Glancing around and thankful for the height that allowed him to see over most of the heads in the room, he spotted Madison near the refreshment station. The room was dark, so he couldn't see her face.

But her body spoke volumes.

This wasn't his fault of course, and she would see it that way in time, but he surmised the frustration was probably too great, the reminder too sharp to simply shake off. Madison was an emotional person and didn't shy away from sharing whatever feelings came through her head. That was fine - this time, at least - Connor understood. Right now, there was only one goal in his mind; one last important thing to do before all else.

He had been able to have his moment, and she had paid the price for it.

Madison deserved a moment of her own, at least. It was time to make that happen.

((Connor Lorenzen continued at heaven help me for the way i am))