Her sentiments aren’t totally unjustified. Pizza is the go-to after a win, but even with four years of post-victory pizza binges, there’s nowhere else I’d rather be.

“Come on.” I link our hands together and try to do my best to look charming. Normally an easy feat, but Polly’s hard features don’t soften under my puppy dog eyes. “We can make winter formal plans after we eat.”

The tiniest crack of a smile pulls her full lips apart and tip upward.

Valley High basketball players, their families, and girlfriends take up most of the small pizza joint. My parents and sisters are here and that’s where I lead Polly.

“Congratulations,” my mother says when we approach.

I barely manage to thank her before Michelle jumps up and throws her arms around my neck. Polly drops my hand and steps aside while my youngest sister squeezes in excitement. “You were amazing!”

“Thanks, Smelly.” I use her nickname and tug on the end of her ponytail. She pulls back and retreats to her seat and I turn to Polly who’s vanished. I spot her with some of the other basketball guys’ girlfriends, huddled around talking about who knows what.

I go ahead and take a seat with my family. The pepperoni pizza in the middle of the table is nearly gone so I know they’ll be heading out soon. Grab a slice and take a huge bite while simultaneously listening to my sister fill me in on the game like I wasn’t there. She’s almost as big a ball fan as I am. Though, she prefers the sidelines to playing. Something about too much running and sweat for her liking.

My phone buzzes in my pocket and when I pull it out and read the screen I stand, still chewing.

Polly: I thought we were going to talk about winter formal. I saved you a seat.

She’s made no attempt to get to know my family in the time we’ve been dating. I guess that’s normal, but my family is so much a part of me and my life it feels weird to keep the two separate. But I did promise her we’d talk about formal.

“See you guys at home later. Gonna celebrate with the guys.”

My family doesn’t put up a fight. I know my parents understand, but Michelle’s smile dims and I hate that.

“Smelly, wanna binge watch Teen Wolf tomorrow? I’m like five episodes behind.” Because I only watch it when she forces me. She knows that, but it doesn’t stop her eyes from lighting up and she can’t nod fast enough. That’s one woman in my life appeased.

The following Tuesday morning I’m sitting in first period willing the bell to ring. When it does, I take one last look around the room, verifying I’m not crazy. All the girls are looking at me, whispering. Except it’s not that kind of look. Discretely, I run a hand under my nose to check for boogers. Run both palms over my face and hair. Four long strides and I’m in the bathroom and staring at my reflection.