Chapter 1

On graduation day, I waited for hours at the school gates. This might be my last chance to see Calvin, and I didn't want to miss it. I yearned to tell him how I felt, even though I was certain he'd reject a girl of my size.

Still, speaking my truth was an act of courage I wouldn't regret.

As I nervously fidgeted, picking at the last bit of loose skin around my fingernails, Calvin finally emerged from the school building.

"C-Calvin! Wait up!" I called out nervously.

Calvin turned, the evening sun casting a warm glow on his face. His white and blue school uniform accentuated his youthful handsomeness – he was the boy I'd secretly adored for three years.

"What is it?" His voice was as captivating as ever.

"I... I know this might seem presumptuous, but I needed to tell you... I like you! I've liked you since the first day I saw you at the start of school! I don't expect anything, I just wanted you to know. I... I hope you'll always be happy!"

I summoned all my courage to say this, then turned to leave, but Calvin called after me.

"Deborah, aren't you going to wait for my answer?"

I froze, turning back in disbelief.

Under my shocked yet hopeful gaze, the boy who seemed to glow like a beacon spoke softly.

"I like you too. Actually, I've had my eye on you. Let's grab a late-night snack together. Meet me at Twilight Club at 9 PM."

Calvin flashed me a gentle smile before leaving the school grounds. I watched him go, my heart pounding.

Had my dreams really come true?

In my naivety, I missed the contempt and malice lurking in Calvin's eyes.

At home, I tried on outfit after outfit in front of my closet mirror. I felt discouraged, thinking my size made every piece of clothing look unflattering on me.

After much deliberation, I decided to dip into my savings. This was money I'd been setting aside to buy Grandpa a new wheelchair, but I figured I could spare a little for now.

I dragged my best friend, Zoe Simpson, to the mall to help me shop for clothes.

It was my first date, after all, and I wanted to look my best.

"You're telling me Calvin Preston agreed to go out with you? Tonight? Are you pulling my leg? Is he blind or something?" Zoe stared at me in disbelief, her eyes nearly popping out of her head.

"I can hardly believe it myself," I admitted, "but he said he's noticed me for a while now. He's so kind. I really like him. It's just that I..."

I trailed off, glancing at my reflection in the mirror, feeling self-conscious.

"Well, whatever the case, your wish came true. I hope you two will be happy together," Zoe said. "But Deborah, you really should think about losing some weight. And be careful tonight, okay? Text me when you get home..."

I nodded along to Zoe's rambling, not noticing the strange flicker in her eyes.

At 8:30 PM, after what I considered careful primping, I prepared to leave.

Grandpa was sitting in the living room, ready with some last-minute advice.