The Lightning In My Chest

Maya stood by the punch bowl like it was her lifeline, which technically it was—nothing says 'I'm definitely not having a panic attack at the Spring Fling' like chugging fruit punch like it's some kind of emotional vitamin supplement for social anxiety.

"You good?" Liam asked, sliding up next to her. His hair was doing that thing where it looked messy but also perfect, which Maya felt was objectively unfair.

"Totally good," Maya lied. "Just. You know. Taking in the ambiance."

The ambiance included eighth graders attempting to twerk, a DJ who apparently believed the volume knob went to eleven, and a cardboard cutout of the school mascot—a bear named Buster who had definitely seen better days. Someone had drawn a mustache on him.

Outside, lightning cracked across the sky, illuminating the gym windows in strobe-light flashes. Perfect. Just what this night needed.

"Liam," Maya said, because her mouth had decided to go rogue. "Can I ask you something?"

"Always."

"Why does everyone act like life is some giant sphinx riddle we're all supposed to solve? Like, what's the point?"

Liam looked at her, really looked at her, and Maya felt that lightning strike again but this time inside her chest. "You know what my mom says?" he said. "She says the whole point is that there is no point. We're all just figuring it out as we go. The riddle's the answer."

"That's infuriatingly wise," Maya groaned.

"I have my moments." He grinned. "Also, you should know. I've been trying to talk to you all night."

The punch bowl suddenly became very interesting. "Oh."

"Yeah. Oh." He nudged her shoulder. "So, Maya. Want to dance? Even though we both have zero coordination?"

Outside, the storm raged. Inside, Maya's heart was doing its own lightning show. She smiled, setting down her cup.

"Absolutely. But I'm warning you now—I might accidentally step on your feet."

"I'll take my chances," Liam said.

And as they walked toward the swirling mass of awkward teenagers, Maya thought maybe not all storms were scary. Some were just getting started.