To have or to hold

It was Lily’s senior year graduation, she was relieved, she’d finally be done with this city and her best friend’s big bad triplet brothers.

They always picked on her and made her high school a living hell.

They were unmistakably good looking but hell will let loose that she saw them in any way than her tormentors.

Either way, she couldn’t think of them in any kind of way as she couldn’t hurt her best friend.

It had been their pact for a decade.

They stepped out of the auditorium in their graduation gowns and mortar board, as Harper's classy parents, Mr. and Mrs. Blackwood approached both girls.

Lily always saw Harper’s parents as a hers as she had been abandoned by her father after the death of her mother.

She loved and admired the couple.

"Congratulations, girls! We're so proud of you both," Mrs. Blackwood exclaimed, giving them each a tight hug.

"Thanks, Mrs. Blackwood," Lily said with a smile.

Mr. Blackwood clapped Harper on the shoulder. "You two have come a long way. Now, onto the after party!"

Harper's eyes lit up. "Oh yeah, Mom has been talking about this for weeks!"

Mrs. Blackwood beamed. 

"Yes, indeed! I've got everything planned out. It's going to be a blast."

Lily's stomach tightened as Mrs. Blackwood mentioned the party. She had been dreading this moment, knowing that the triplets would be returning home from their basketball game. She exchanged a nervous glance with Harper.

"And guess what, girls?" Mrs. Blackwood continued. "The triplets will be back just in time for the party!"

Harper's face lit up even more, but Lily's heart sank. She forced a smile.

"That's great," she said, trying to sound enthusiastic.

The thought of facing Harper's triplet brothers made Lily's palms sweat. 

They had been tormenting her since freshman year, and the idea of spending another evening with them was far from appealing.

She just wanted to get to college as soon as possible.

They were making their way to the car but Lily stood still.

“I won’t be coming.” Lily managed to say, causing Harper to frown.

Harper tugged at Lily's arm, her eyes pleading. 

"Come on, Lily, you have to come to the party. It won't be the same without you."

Lily hesitated, glancing at Mrs. Blackwood for support. "I don't know, Harper. I'm just not in the mood for a party tonight."

Mrs. Blackwood stepped in.

"Oh, sweetie, please come. It's a special night, and we want you to be part of the celebration."

Lily felt torn. On one hand, she wanted to support and be with Harper and her family.

On the other hand, the thought of facing Harper's brothers filled her with dread.

Harper squeezed Lily's hand. 

"Please, Lily. I promise it won't be so bad. And besides, Mom has been looking forward to this party for ages."

Lily sighed.

She knew Harper meant well, and Mrs. Blackwood's encouragement was hard to resist. 

"Okay, fine. I'll come."

Harper's face lit up with relief. 

"Yes! You won't regret it, I promise."

They finally made their way to Blackwood mansion after a few stops at the store and an ice cream shop.

Darkness covered the sky, and friends from high school were already there.

Harper had convinced Lily to change into one of her white party dresses as she informed her that Harvey McClooney was present at the pool area.

Lily harbored a massive crush on Harvey since freshman year and maybe tonight she hoped he’d notice her.

The girls made it to the pool area, music blaring through the speakers and newly graduates dancing around, some lurking at the bar area.

She could tell that someone would definitely spike the drinks.

But then again it was a party, so who cares?

“Let’s get some drinks.” Harper suggested, pulling her towards the bar.

They took a few shots and Lily knew she was in for it.

“Hey, Harvey’s over there.” Harper leaned and whispered, causing Lily’s eyes to roam the pool area until her eyes landed on the brightest pair of deep brown eyes.