“... What?”

This feels like it came completely out of nowhere, why would anyone even ask that? Why would she ask that?

“My parents won’t let me go if they know that you’re… you know” her voice trailed off. I stared at the phone like she could see my reaction. She could probably feel my reaction with how long I took to respond. “But, I know they definitely will if they think you're Italian!” After another pause, she sighed, “I'm sorry—”

“No no, it’s alright!” I cut her off, far too quickly to be casual “it’s fine.”

“Okay, I’ll see you tomorrow then”

“Alright”

The phone clicked. I don’t even know how to describe how I feel right now. What just even happened? Why would she ask me out if her parents don't like “people like that.” and who even asks someone to do that?!

Everything was fine up until now. She never said anything about her parents not liking Mexicans. I'm not even Mexican, I’m from Nicaragua! This is so frustrating. It's not like I can just not go, I already bought the tickets! I paced around the kitchen wondering what I should do. Her parents already know about me and I don't want to stand her up, but I’m not pretending to be Italian. I walked up the stairs and flopped onto my bed. Maybe I’ll fall asleep and figure it out the next morning.

Wow, that definitely did not help. Who would’ve thought that dreaming doesn't cause you to make decisions, crazy, right? I even had most of the day to get to my decision but I still haven't decided yet. I can’t think straight right now and she’ll be here any minute. The clock is ticking and she'll be here soon. I looked over at her desk and realized she already arrived. Oh god.

“Jose!” She exclaimed with more energy than all of the Seniors combined. “Hi Amanda, how are you?” I hope I don’t sound too nervous. “I'm really excited and so are my parents! I told them about how—.” “Actually” I cut her off, “I think I should go by myself.” She looked at me with a blank expression, like she had not processed what I said yet. Then, it hit her and her face dropped. “Oh, that's alright.” It doesn't look alright, I don't know If I should've said that. “Are you sure?” I asked meekly. She nodded her head and sat down. After I gave her a ticket, I sat down as well.

I still went to prom, I just went by myself. Luckly, Amanda wasn’t there so I didn’t have to worry about that but even if she was, I'm glad that I didn't go with her. I did like her but going alone is better than being dishonest with myself.