A senior boy slapped a quiet girl outside prom in front of everyone… But the limo driver who stepped out had her same eyes and a military haircut under his cap.
The string lights cast a warm glow over the hotel entrance as students streamed in and out of prom. Maya Chen stood by the steps, smoothing her simple blue dress, waiting for her ride home.
“Look what we have here,” Tyler Morrison’s voice cut through the night. The star quarterback approached with his crew, all expensive tuxedos and cruel smirks.
Maya looked up, clutching her small purse. “I’m just waiting for my ride.”
“In that discount dress?” Tyler laughed, loud enough for nearby students to hear. “Did you get it from a thrift store?”
His friends joined in, phones already recording. Maya’s cheeks burned as she tried to step away.
“Where you going, charity case?” Tyler blocked her path. “We’re not done talking.”
“Please just leave me alone.” Maya’s voice barely rose above a whisper.
“What was that? Speak up!” Tyler grabbed her arm roughly.
Maya tried to pull away. “Let go of me.”
“Make me.” Tyler’s grip tightened, his face twisted with alcohol and entitlement.
The sharp crack of his palm across her face echoed off the hotel walls. Maya stumbled backward, hitting the side of a black limousine parked at the curb.
Gasps erupted from the growing crowd. Phones lifted higher, recording every second.
Tyler turned back to his friends, laughing. “Did you see her face? Priceless.”
The limo’s driver door opened with deliberate slowness.
