The week leading up to the charity game flew by in a whirlwind of planning, last-minute preparations, and endless brainstorming sessions with Dylan and Claire. True to his word, Dylan kept things relatively tame—at least by his standards. Mia found herself unexpectedly swept up in the excitement of it all, even if she wouldn't admit it out loud.
Monday morning began with the announcement of the charity game theme: "Throwback to the '80s." As Mia walked into Ridgeway High, the hallways were already buzzing with chatter about leg warmers, neon colors, and crimped hairstyles. Flyers plastered every available surface, each one boldly proclaiming, *"Get Ready to Ball for a Cause!"*
By lunchtime, the cafeteria was practically vibrating with energy. Mia sat with Claire at their usual table, attempting to eat her sandwich in peace. Claire, however, was practically bouncing in her seat.
"Did you see the flyer designs? They're amazing!" Claire said, shoving her phone in Mia's face. "Dylan really outdid himself."
Mia glanced at the screen, which displayed an image of Dylan striking an exaggerated pose in a headband and fluorescent tracksuit. Behind him, a cartoonish basketball hoop glowed in neon colors. The caption read: *"Don't Miss the Game of the Decade!"*
"He looks ridiculous," Mia muttered, though a small smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. "But I guess it's for a good cause."
"That's the spirit!" Claire said, grinning. "And don't forget, we're going shopping after school to find our outfits. You *are* dressing up, right?"
Mia groaned. "Do I have a choice?"
"Not if you want to survive my wrath," Claire said sweetly. "Besides, it's going to be fun! When's the last time you let loose and just… enjoyed yourself?"
Mia opened her mouth to protest but stopped short. Claire had a point. Between trying to stay under the radar and navigating the chaos that was Dylan Westwood, she hadn't exactly been living her best life. Maybe it wouldn't kill her to embrace the madness—just this once.
---
Later that afternoon, Mia found herself in a crowded thrift store, surrounded by racks of vintage clothing. Claire was in her element, darting from one section to another with the precision of a bloodhound on a scent. Mia, on the other hand, felt like a deer caught in headlights.
"This is a disaster," Mia muttered, holding up a pair of bright yellow leg warmers. "Who actually wore this stuff?"
"Everyone in the '80s," Claire said, tossing a sequined jacket into her growing pile of clothes. "Now, stop whining and help me find something for you."
After what felt like an eternity, Claire finally settled on an outfit for Mia: a pair of high-waisted acid-wash jeans, a cropped neon pink sweatshirt, and a matching scrunchie for her hair. Mia tried to protest, but Claire silenced her with a single look.
"You're going to look adorable," Claire said firmly. "Now go try it on."
---
The rest of the week passed in a blur. Between classes, charity planning, and last-minute outfit adjustments, Mia barely had time to catch her breath. Dylan, true to form, seemed to thrive under the chaos. He juggled basketball practice, theme coordination, and schoolwork with a level of energy that left Mia both impressed and exhausted.
By Friday, the school was buzzing with anticipation. The gymnasium had been transformed into a retro wonderland, complete with neon streamers, disco balls, and a makeshift stage for the halftime show. The bleachers were packed with students, teachers, and parents, all eager to see what Ridgeway High's star athlete had cooked up this time.
Mia stood near the entrance, nervously fidgeting with the hem of her sweatshirt. Claire was by her side, dressed in a glittering gold tracksuit that practically screamed "center of attention."
"You ready for this?" Claire asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
"Not even a little," Mia admitted. "But I'm here, so that counts for something, right?"
Before Claire could respond, Dylan appeared, decked out in a full '80s basketball uniform complete with striped tube socks and a sweatband. He looked like he'd stepped straight out of a cheesy sports movie—and he knew it.
"Ladies," he said, flashing his signature grin. "Glad you could make it."
"Don't get used to it," Mia said, though she couldn't help but smile. "So, what's the plan for tonight? Another viral stunt?"
"Not this time," Dylan said, his grin softening. "Tonight's about the game—and raising as much money as we can for the charity."
Mia nodded, surprised by his sincerity. "Well, good luck out there."
"Thanks," Dylan said, his gaze lingering on her for a moment longer than necessary. "And don't worry—I've got a few surprises up my sleeve."
---
The game itself was a whirlwind of excitement and laughter. Dylan's team dominated the court, their skill and teamwork on full display. The crowd cheered and hollered, their enthusiasm infectious. Even Mia found herself getting caught up in the energy, clapping and shouting along with everyone else.
At halftime, Dylan took the stage, microphone in hand. "Thank you all for coming out tonight," he said, his voice ringing through the gym. "This game isn't just about basketball—it's about coming together as a community and making a difference. So let's keep the energy up and make this a night to remember!"
The crowd erupted into cheers as Dylan handed the microphone to the announcer and rejoined his team. Mia watched him from the bleachers, a strange mix of pride and exasperation swelling in her chest. He really was something else.
---
By the end of the night, Ridgeway High had raised more money than anyone had expected. The game ended with a decisive victory for Dylan's team, and the crowd poured onto the court to celebrate.
Mia found herself swept up in the chaos, her heart racing as she navigated the sea of people. She spotted Dylan near the center of the court, surrounded by his teammates. When he saw her, his face lit up.
"Mia!" he called, weaving his way through the crowd. "You made it to the end!"
"Barely," Mia said, shaking her head. "But you did it. The game was amazing."
"Couldn't have done it without you," Dylan said, his grin widening. "Seriously, thanks for everything."
Mia shrugged, feeling her cheeks heat up. "It was for a good cause."
Dylan's expression softened, and for a moment, the noise of the crowd seemed to fade into the background. "You're a good person, Mia. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise."
Mia opened her mouth to respond, but before she could say anything, Dylan was pulled away by one of his teammates. As she watched him disappear into the crowd, Mia couldn't help but feel that her life had become infinitely more complicated—and, maybe, just a little bit more exciting.