what if the Rose doesn't bloom?

Partners

I grabbed his hand and we went for a peaceful long drive.
We came back late and the next morning he left.
It was weekend. I also had things to do. My doorbell rang.
I opened the door.

"Ta-da".

"Thank god you are back Poppy. I really needed you."

"I have some news for you. Let's have some coffee."

We gossiped and worked a bit.
The next day, our colleges was busy. The festive month already began. The 1st year party was going to be organized next month.

Oh shit. This will be the end of my first year.
I also need to prepare.
I met Ben in the corridor.

"Are you excited?" He asked.

"Of course."

"Unfortunately, we can't participate in performances. Our seniors will be handling that."

"Yaaa,But that won't affect my excitement."

The days went in preparation. We used to get rounds of the teams. Well, we were a kind of trio now. James never agreed to me. But, he did. I know.

We all were supposed to wear beautiful dresses. All accessorized and personalized.
A castle with ball party. The theme was a bit high.
That means I need a dress too. A gown?

Like me and a gown.
Deadly combo. I don't favor this.
Let me share a memory, I was told to wear a gown when I was 12 or something. And I burnt that dress, just because it was way too heavy and itchy and uncomfortable and ugly maybe. In short, not my type.
And so, I am wearing my casuals. I don't care what people will say.

It was a normal day. We three were sitting near the ground. Eating and judging at the works of seniors, obviously.

"They are sorted. But we are in problem." Ben quoted.

"What problem Ben?" I asked.

"Must be his dress. He couldn't find one." James said.

"Come on dude. There is something more than that." Ben replied.

I and James looked at Ben innocently.

Ben sighed.
"Partners!!!"

"Partners?" I and James confirmed.

"Yes, obviously. This is a castle theme party and ball is arranged. And for a ball dance, we need partners. No partner no participation. You can only stay at some corner and watch other."
Ben explained.

"Really, that's cool. I don't have an issue. In fact, I liked it. Why do we need partners."
I said.

"Seriously Rose. You don't want to be a part of it?"
Ben asked

"Nopes." I smiled.

"What about you James?"
Asked Ben.

"I am not interested. But girls might be.
Huhh, I am gonna get a lot of proposals. Let's see whom I can't resist."
Said James enjoying his soft drink.

I made a face like whatever.
We went back to our class.

The preparation got exciting day by day. We used to enjoy the music, dance and art all across the campus.

In few days, we saw rare talents.
One fine day, James and I were sitting in an almost empty class. And he asked me

"Ummmm, Rose!"

"Hmmm". I responded with eyes still on my notebook.

"Would you mind....uhhh, I mean!  I just wanted to ask !"