All characters portrayed are 18 years of age (late-in-year high school seniors) or older. 750 words are below this divider:
=====
"Are you at least going to say 'Hello'?"
The gorgeous young thing in the formal gown and glittered makeup in the checkout line is trying to get the attention of the middle-aged gentleman behind her. She has his attention, alright, but he desperately wants
not
to appear to be perving on a pretty girl not even half his age. He is averting from her eye contact.
"Steven?" she tries again.
"Ohmygosh," jerking his head up. "Sam? That you? You're all dressed up! Wow."
"You can be so silly. Didn't remember the senior prom?"
"That's
tonight?
Geez. And I'm so sorry, Samantha. Honestly didn't recognize you."
She giggles having embarrassed her bassoon teacher. More embarrassment is in the offing as he notices the small box of condoms on the checkstand belt mixed in with the snacks she was buying.
He's puzzled, "You're by yourself? Where's your date?"
"Justin, Claire, and Aaron are waiting in the limo. Didn't you notice it?"
"Thought nothing of it. Still seeing Justin? You were so mad at him after your eighteenth birthday party in February."
"Yeah. He was puttin' the moves on Taylor."
"And...?"
"Nobody else asked me to the prom."
"You've
got
to be kidding, Sam!
You?
"
"You forget about the 'band geek' thing. We're not popular."
"Oh. Okay. Afterparty plans?"
"Yeah. I know you saw it."
"What?"
"The little box."
"None of my business."
She grins and subtly shakes her head at him in amusement.
"$32.45" the checker announces.