A/N: Well look who's back so soon, yes I am as surprised as you are. Anyway, this story I wanted to dedicated to and give a shout out. On my last chapter, I received a review from a Guest; which said.

Guest: This was amazing, and totally worth the wait time. I hope creativity strikes you again soon, and maybe you could do a shot with them finally getting together without distance between them.

Now because your name is Guest, I don't know who you are but this review sparked something in me. I wanted to write a one-shot completely in the dedication to you Guest. I love getting reviews, especially nice and good ones. I know this wasn't a shot you suggested in your comment but I still hope it is good. I will think about your suggestion and see what happens from there. In the meantime I just want to give you a huge SHOUT OUT AND DEDICATION. Enjoy the one-shot ~KJ99

That Missing Puzzle Piece

"So, Hanna who are you taking to homecoming as your date?" Spencer asked out of the blue. My four best friend and I were currently sitting in Alison's bedroom talking about random things that came to our mind, as per usual. It was no secret that homecoming was in three weeks, everyone was snatching up dates fast this year. Which comes as no surprise to me but what had surprised me, was my friends hadn't talked about it before now.

Hanna replied with "Caleb, he asked me last night while on a date."

"Cute, how did he do it?" Aria asked, the most romantic one out of all four of us.

"He kind of blurted it out, I think he was nervous. It was slightly cute, he thought I'd say no."

Alison spoke up "Which would be understandable, why are you dating him again?" Alison was always judgemental on whoever we dated, granted I hadn't dated anyone but I could feel her rath when the other girls date; which was more than enough for me.

Before Hanna could answer, I asked "Has anyone asked you?"

"A few guys, I'm just weighing my options," Alison answered and I nod my head in response.

Aria asked "What about you Spence?"

Spencer replied with "Yeah, a guy asked me but I haven't given him my answer."

"Why not?" I asked knowing exactly who she was talking about. Spencer then gave me a look, which told me she'd explain later and I nod my head again in response.

I asked "Aria, has anyone asked you?"

"No but I'm fine to go on my own. Besides it's homecoming, not Prom," Aria answered honestly.

Before Alison could go off on Aria, Hanna asked "What about you Em? Any guys asked you?"

"Nope," I say feeling my gayness just wanting to escape my body. The last thing I wanted to do was go to a dance with a guy, I couldn't string a guy on when I knew nothing could happen between us.

Spencer said "I heard whispers that Ben wants to ask you out."

Aria asked "He is the boys swim team captain, right?"

"Yeah," I say nodding my head to confirm.

Hanna commented "Almost a match made in heaven." Yeah, if I wasn't gay, I thought to myself. I had to bite my lip to stop myself from laughing at my own jokes.

"So, if he asked you. Are you going to say yes?" Alison asked interested in my answer.

I replied with "Definitely not."

"Why not? His super cute," Hanna said sounding disappointed.

"I've known the guy since we were four and once you've seen a guy pick your nose, there is no going back," I say feeling myself sweat under their questioning. The girls laughed at my response and shock their heads, probably thinking I was being too picky.

I suggested "Why don't we all go dress shopping next weekend?"

"Why not this weekend?" Alison asked sounding a little confused.

I replied with "I work all this weekend and I don't get paid until next Friday."

Spencer said "That must suck."

"Oh, it won't be too bad. I am in control of the music. It's fun picking between the thousands of jazz CDs we have at work," I say sarcastically.

Aria said "There can't be that many jazz CDs in the world."

I replied with "No, there is. We have a whole box decaded to them."

"Seriously?" Hanna asked.

"Seriously," I replied.

"Oh, hey Emily," I heard from the other side of the counter. Turning around, I smile when I see Paige McCullers is here. We are on the swim team together and while we are always competing against each other, I am closer to her then anyone else on the team.

"Hey Paige," I said while unlocking the till.

Paige said "I didn't know you were working today."

I replied with "Yeah, I was hoping to have a relaxing weekend but when you get rostered, you work."

"Understandable."

I asked "What can I get you?"

Paige replied with "Just two bottles of water please. My Dad and I are out running, we normally stood to get water."

"Sure thing," I say putting it into the till.

"That's $5.60," I said before taking the offered money.

Paige then said "Keep the change."

"Thanks but are you sure?"

"Definitely," Paige said with a wink making me smile and blush a little. Turning away from the counter, I walk over to the fridge and pull two water bottles out.

At the counter Paige said "Thanks Emily. It was nice seeing you, I'll see you Monday."

"See you Monday," I say biting my lip nervous. When Paige was long gone, I tipped my head back and released a breath. Could I have acted more dorky if I tried, I shake my head at myself.

I then heard my boss asked "Who's the cute girl?" I tip my head back to see my boss Carla standing there with a teasing smile.

I explain "She's a girl from my school, we also swim together."

Carla asked "Does she often flirt with you?"

"What? She was not flirting with me," I say thinking there was no way Paige was into me.

"Hate to break it to you Kiddo, but that girl was flirting with you."

"You think?" I asked unsure.

"Yep and from what I could see, you were liking that she was flirting with you."

"I guess," I say with a slight shrug.

"Come on," Carla instructs me to follow her; leaving Michael to cover the floor by himself. Carla leads me into her office and has me sit down on the couch.

Carla asked "Emily, I'm going to ask you a question but if you feel uncomfortable you don't have to answer, okay?"

"Okay," I say a little nervous.

"Are you gay?" Carla asked not beating around the bush.

"I don't know," I say shrugging, feeling nervous and sweating majorly.

"Does anyone know? Have you told anyone?"

"No, no one knows," I say pretty much confirming her first question.

Carla spoke "It's okay, you know to like girls."

"But this is Rosewood."

"Yes, it is and this town is filled with small mind, ignorant people. But that shouldn't define your identity or sexuality for that matter. Screw what people think, that's been my motto my entire life."

"I still have another year of high school and my parents are total religious."

"Emily, I know you are young and this is hard for you to grasp at this point of your life. But, you can't live your life based on other people. At the end of the day it's your life and you have to be happy."

"I guess, I can see your logic," I say releasing a small sigh.

Clearing my throat, I say "Homecoming is a few weeks and I kind of want to ask Paige as my date but I'm worried that my friends will ditch me for being gay."

"I think you should ask Paige to homecoming if you want to and if your friends to ditch you, then they weren't true friends and you don't need those type of people in your life."

"I guess, you are so wise," I say making Carla laugh.

Carla said "Do whatever makes you happy Kiddo and if you need someone to talk to, then I am here for you whenever you need."

"Thanks Carla, your a pretty cool boss and friend."

"Thanks Kiddo," Carla said with a smile before we both stood to leave the office and get back to work.

It was Friday evening when I found myself at school in the swimming pool with Paige. The coach appreciated our dedication and allowed us to stay back late whenever we wanted to swim. Tonight, Paige and I decided to stay back. I was going to Spencer house afterwards, to have a casual sleepover and she was fine with me standing back for as long as I wanted to.

"You slowed down back there Fields. I almost thought you were letting me win."

"Never McCullers, although that would be the only way you could beat me," I say with a laugh which awarded me with a splash of water in the face.

Paige asked "Seriously though, is there something on my mind?"

"Yeah," I say pushing myself to sit on the edge of the pool.

"Well come on or do I have to force it out of you?" Paige asked sitting up on the edge next to me.

I say "My friends and I have been talking about Homecoming and who our dates will be."

"Oh, yeah. Anyone asked you, yet?"

"Ben did, on Monday."

"That sounds nice, is he taking you somewhere nice for dinner first."

"No because I told him no."

"Why would you say no? Ben is cute."

I smile and say "Hanna pointed that out to me but he is not who I want to take as my date."

"Who do you want to take as your date?" Paige asked curious. With one nervous deep breath, I turn to Paige and lean in to peck her lips once before moving back.

Paige asked sounding breathless "Wait, hang on. You would rather take me, Paige McCullers as your date then Ben?"

"Yeah," I say smiling.

"I can't believe it," Paige said shaking her head in disbelief.

"Umm...if you don't want to go with me, it's okay. I just thought, maybe you were interested in me, like that?"

Paige said "You are really adorable when your nervous and unsure."

"You notice that?"

"I notice a lot of things about you Emily. Like how while practicing you wear two caps but then racing you wear only one cap. You will only swim with one particular brand of goggles and that's because they were the ones your Dad gave you, the reason why you swim. You like granny smith apples the most because everyone always hates on it for being to sour, so you don't want to hurt the apples feelings. You don't like coffee or tea. That's just the obvious things, I notice a lot about you Emily."

"You're cute," I say moving a fallen piece of hair behind my ear.

Paige said honestly "I never thought you'd be interested in me, I didn't think I had a chance that's why I've never spoken up. I didn't want to ruin our friendship."

I asked "Does that mean you'll go to Homecoming with me?"

"Yeah but Em, can I take you to homecoming?"

"Aren't we taking each other?" I asked confused.

Paige explained "I mean, I want to take you to dinner first and treat you right."

"You want to control the date, even though I asked you?"

"Basically, I was trying to be polite."

"It's okay Paige. I'm bad at planning dates. So, yes you can take me to homecoming."

"Cool," Paige said with a cheesy smile.

I then requested "Can you not tell anyone? I haven't exactly told anyone that I'm gay."

"You know they'll find out at homecoming?"

"Yes, I do. I just want to enjoy homecoming prep without being questioned for liking a girl."

"It's okay Emily. You don't need to explain. No one will find out from me."

"Thank-you," I say leaning forward to peck Paige's lips again.

Paige commented "Your lips are so soft."

"Back at you. However, I got to go. I'm having a sleepover with Spencer but I have to be there to class it as a sleepover," I say apologetic for having to leave now.

"It's okay Emily. Go on, I'll see you Monday."

"Alright," I say standing up. I lean down to peck Paige head before leaving to the girls locker rooms, to change and leave for Spencer's.

"What do you guys think of this one?" Hanna asked stepping out from the changing rooms wearing a green dress, cutting off above the knee at the front but falling behind with small train of dress.

Spencer asked "Does it come in another colour?"

Hanna replied with "I think I saw a purple one."

"I'll go look," Aria offered walking away to look for the dress.

I said "You look really nice Hanna." While Alison commented "Green, isn't your colour."

"Thanks Em," Hanna said smiling in my direction.

Spencer asked "How about this one for you Emily?" Spencer held out a white dress, which cut deep in the chest area and then off short at the knee.

"Just because I wear a one piece swim suit, does not mean I'll wear that thing," I say instantly getting a laugh out of the girls.

"Here you go Hanna," Aria said holding a purple dress matching exactly to the green one Hanna currently wore.

"Thanks Aria," Hanna said before stepping into the changing room. The plan was to pick dresses out for Hanna and Alison first being the most fashionable. Spencer and Aria next because they weren't fussed. Then I would go last because I didn't like wearing dresses and needed time to warm up to them.

Alison asked "So, had anyone asked you Aria?"

Aria replied with "Surprisingly Noel did."

"Noel, as in Noel Kahn asked you to Homecoming?" Spencer asked in shock.

Aria then admits "Yeah, I was surprised myself. I thought it was some joke."

"Not a joke," I say shaking my head.

Alison asked "How do you know?"

"When Ben asked me out on Monday, he thought we could double with Noel and Aria," I explained.

Aria said "Thanks for the heads up. He thinks I'm insane now."

"Why?" Spencer asked.

"I was so shocked when he asked me, I stood their in the hallway for a couple five minutes with my mouth wide open. I didn't even answer him."

Looking at Aria, I say "Sorry. When I declined Ben's offer, he realised he stuff up in telling me and promised me to secrecy. I felt bad for rejecting him, so I agreed. Besides, you've been in love with Noel Kahn since we were in the third grade; I thought it would be a nice surprise."

"It's okay Emily. I'm not mad," Aria said smiling across at me, giving me a chance to relax.

Hanna asked "How's this?" she walked out in the purple dress and look absolutely stunning.

Spencer spoke first "That's that dress, Hanna."

"Spence, is right Hanna," Aria agreed.

With a smile, I say "You look stunning, Han."

"Thanks guys. I really like this dress a lot more than the green one, I think this is the dress I am wearing to homecoming," Hanna said extremely excited.

Alison spoke up "My turn."

Spencer offered "Do you want the white dress?"

"No Spencer. I don't give the show for free," Alison said walking away to look for dresses.

As we walked around the store, Hanna asked "Em, if you turned Ben's offer down then who are you going with?"

"There's no rule saying I have to take someone or have someone take me, is there?" I say.

"No but you don't want to be the only one without date, between us," Alison commented.

With a shrug, I say "Well, don't worry. I actually asked someone yesterday and they said yes."

"What! And you didn't tell me! I was with you all of last night," Spencer shouted annoyed and I couldn't help but smile.

Aria asked "Who's the lucky guy?"

With a smile, I say "That's for me to know and for you guys to know at Homecoming."

"Come on Em, we've told you who we're going with," Hanna said desperate to know.

I said "Well, technically Alison hasn't said who she's going with."

I quickly added "Not that it'd matter if she had, I still won't be telling you."

Spencer asked "Do we even know them?"

I replied with "Nice try but I'm not playing twenty questions, you'll just have to wait. Hey Ali, what about that one?" I point out a yellow dress, yellow has always been Alison favourite and it will remain like that forever.

Aria commented "That actually doesn't look too bad."

"You should definitely try it on," Hanna said pulling out the yellow dress in Alison size. The yellow dress had frill collar which cut off mid-chest, there was a little pattern that could only be seen up close. The dress cut neatly of just above the knee, it look almost perfect for Alison.

Spencer said "Try these ones on, as well," Spencer handed Alison three more dresses which Alison seem to approve of. With the four dresses in hand the five of us headed back towards the dressing room. From there we continued dress shopping, Alison had elected to going with the yellow dress as it cut and hung exactly where she wanted; plus yellow is her favourite colour. Spencer dress was a dark red, almost maroon colour. It was silk, with clean lines and went down smoothly; stopping just bellow the knee. Aria had found a dress that was black with a tutu that came out at the waist, the tutu was black and white. Aria matched the dress with black fishnet stockings.

"So what do you think?" I asked Carla as I stepped out from her office. Carla had begged to see me in my dress and I couldn't help but oblige in showing her. So, when we finished shopping; I head to the brew which was closing up. This left Carla and I alone. I had chosen an ocean blue dress, it exposed more chest/breast area than I am used to but the girls said it was done in the right way for me. The dress dropped just to my calf, walking and dancing would be hard but I should manage.

Carla spoke breathless "You look amazing, absolutely stunning. That's definitely the dress for you."

"Thanks," I say trying not to blush at the compliment.

"So, are you going alone or did you ask Paige?"

"I asked Paige, she's picking me up at 7 on homecoming night."

"That's great. Has she seen the dress?"

"No, just the colour. In case she wants to match or something, that's a homecoming thing, right?"

"Yes, it is," Carla agreed.

"But your friend still don't know, do they?"

"No, they don't. I told them I have a date just not who she is. So far they are respecting my privacy, will see how long that lasts."

"They just care about you and probably don't want you spending the night alone."

"Yeah, your probably right."

Carla asked "Has Paige given you any idea where she's taking you beforehand?"

"No idea. Which is nice, I like surprises. As long as they are good, that is."

Walking into the house an hour later, Carla and I had sat talking. Carla shared her memories of her own homecoming, which definitely was a laugh.

"Mum, I'm home!" I shout into the house dropping my overnight bag at the steps and continuing into the house with my dress bag.

"In the kitchen!" Mum shouted back.

Mum asked at seeing me enter the kitchen "How did the dress shopping go?"

"Yeah, good. We all found dresses we like, even me."

"Amazing," Mum said over dramatic making me laugh.

Mum asked "So, who are you going to homecoming with?"

"About that, we need to talk. Can you come sit down for a minute, please?" I requested nervous.

"Okay," Mum said worried but complying in seating down at the table with me.

I begin with "I want you to know this hasn't been easy for me, I've tried to not feel this way but I can't help it. My date for homecoming will be Paige McCullers."

"Paige McCullers, as is in the girl on your swimming team?"

"Yeah," I say trying to gauge her reactions.

"Isn't she like your biggest rival?"

"Yeah but swimming isn't always about competition, especially for me."

"Okay, that's okay then."

"Wait, hang on," I say confused.

Mum asked "What's wrong?"

"I thought you would have an issue with me being gay."

"Oh sweetie, I've know for a very long time. I actually thought your first girlfriend would be one of your friends."

"How did you know? I barely knew."

"A Mum knows these things. I will admit I was upset but all I want for you is to be happy Emily and if that's with a girl, who am I to get in the way."

"You are the best," I say standing up and rushing to hug her.

"It's okay sweetie. You are my daughter and I love you no matter what," Mum said making me squeeze her even tighter.

I then asked "Do you need help with dinner?"

"No, it's alright. Don't you want to call Paige?"

"Yeah," I say smiling at the mention of Paige's name.

Mum said "Go do that, I'll call you when dinners ready."

"Thanks Mum," I say kissing her temple before leaving for my room.

Once upstairs and my dress was hanging up, I quickly rung Paige; excited to tell her the details.

"Hey," Paige said sounding happy.

"Hi," I replied equally happy.

Paige asked "How are you?"

"I'm good, how are you?"

"Good too, amazing now that your rung."

"Flattery will get you everywhere with me, Paige."

"Good," Paige said laughing.

I then said "I told my Mum that you are my date for homecoming."

"Really, how did that go?"

"Surprisingly well. Apparently, she already knew. I don't know how, she just said a mother knows."

"Spooky."

"My thoughts exactly."

"But it's cool that she react well. I've read some horrible stories on the internet."

"Same here."

I then asked "What are you wearing to Homecoming?"

"You'll have to wait to find out."

"Okay," I say smiling into the phone.

Paige asked "But you said your dress is blue right?"

"That is correct."

"Cool, I can't wait to see you all dressed up."

"Back at ya."

"Can I ask a question?" Paige asked sounding nervous.

"Of course you can," I say sitting up slightly worried.

"With us going to homecoming together does this me we are dating, like are you my girlfriend?"

Relaxing back on the bed "Gez, you gave me a heart attack; I thought it was life or death question."

"Sorry," Paige said.

"It's okay, I was just messing with you. I'll give you my answer after homecoming."

"Your a big tease, aren't you?"

"Don't you know it."

"Well, I just want to put this out there. I really, really like you and want us to be a thing." I smiled as my heart warmed by Paige's words.

On Tuesday, it was one more week until Homecoming there was excitement buzzing around the school; everyone was ready to party. I was sitting in English class with Hanna, Spencer, Alison and Aria; when over the speaker came "Students, can I please have your attention?" Everyone placed their pens or books down and looked up ready to listen carefully to the announcement.

Mr Davidson our principal spoke "Good Morning Student, I am please to announce the homecoming king and queen nominees for this years Homecoming dance."

"Your homecoming Queen nominees are "Grace Hart," he paused to allow clapping for which ever room she was in. "Hanna Marin," I turned to Hanna instantly clapping excited; she always wanted to be homecoming Queen. "And lastly, Emily Fields."

"What?" I said confused. I looked around the room, everyone clapped for my nomination even Hanna but I was confused as to who would've voted for me to be nominated.

Mr Davidson said "Congratulation Ladies, now for your homecoming Kings. Noel Kahn."

"Of course," Alison whispered as we clapped for Noel.

Aria said "I'm going with royalty."

Mr Davidson continued "Caleb Rivers."

"Yeah Caleb!" Hanna shouted clapping so loud, I was fairly sure Caleb would've been able to hear it in his class room.

"Lastly Sam Mitchel," a few claps sounded for him; whoever he was.

"Congratulation nominees. Students you can start voting as of today and until Homecoming school day. You have one week, good luck to all. Thank-you," he said wrapping up the announcement.

Mr Fitz said "Back to work everyone." I quickly went back to work not wanting to join a conversation with my friends about being nominated, especially against Hanna.

Later that day I found myself in the girls locker room with Paige, everyone had cleared our fairly quickly while we took our time.

Paige said "So, I heard I'm going to homecoming with royalty."

"Oh shut up," I say pushing Paige's shoulder a little.

"But seriously congrats on the nomination, do you know how it happened?"

"No clue, I'm kind of hoping Hanna wins. Besides, she actually wants to be homecoming Queen; it's like been her dream since she learnt of homecoming."

"Seriously?"

"Yes."

"How are you and Hanna friend again? You are both completely opposite."

I shrug and say "I don't know but I think that's what makes it work. She educated me on everything fashion and I educate her on everything sports."

"Really?"

"We at least try," I say placing my bag over my shoulder and beginning to lead Paige out of the locker, towards the car park.

Paige asked "What are your plans now?"

"I'm going shopping."

"Why? I thought your friends only drag you shopping."

"It's for them, their dates approached me today. Hoping I could help them pick out suits."

"Sounds like fun."

"I can't wait."

"What about after that?"

"Spencer invited me over to her place for the night. Dads away and Mums working late, so I'm staying at Spencer to make my Mum happy."

"So, no late phone call tonight?"

"Sorry beautiful, I still want this to be a surprise for everyone."

"It's okay. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Bye Paige," I say giving a little wave before getting into my own car.

Walking into the Hastings house, I found Melissa sitting on the couch watching TV.

"Here again," Melissa said.

I replied with "Mums working late again. Here seemed like the easiest place."

Melissa nods her head before asking "Are you excited for Homecoming?"

"Yeah, a little nervous though."

"Who's your date?"

"I'm not telling anyone late."

"Why his not attractive?"

With a smile, I say "No, I want it to be a surprise."

"Fair enough. Spence, said you were nominated as Homecoming Queen; congrats."

"Thanks but I don't really see me as the homecoming queen type. Beside, I want Hanna to win."

"Well good luck, I'll actually be there this year?"

"Why?" I asked confused.

"From alumni present the crowns, it's my turn."

"Cool. I'll see you there then."

"Yes, you will and I can't wait to see who your date is." I smile wondering what everyone's reaction would be to Paige being my date.

"Oh Em, your here," Spencer said standing midway on the step.

I replied with "Just arrived."

"Come on," Spencer said ushering me up the stairs.

"Bye Melissa," I say heading up the stairs with Spencer.

I had been sitting in Spencer room for a good hour, we were working on our homework; when Spencer broke the silence "Your really not going to tell us who your date is."

"Nope," I say shaking my head not bothering to look up.

"Not even me, your best friend?"

"Guilt tripping me isn't going to work, Spence."

"At least had to try. Why aren't you telling us?"

"I want to enjoy my homecoming prep, just leave it at that."

"Why are you so worried? I should be the one worried, I'm bringing Toby and you know how Alison feels about him."

"Just ignore Alison, it does the trick."

"Nice way of avoiding the question."

"I can't explain but do you promise no matter what you'll always be my friend?"

"Of course Em, you came before anything else. So, I put you above everything."

"Thanks," I say trying not to tear up.

"Come here," Spencer said opening her arms. Without hesitating I moved to lay in Spencer arms.

Spencer spoke "Now you listen to me, no matter who your date is. I'll always support you, your my best friend and I love you."

"Love you too Spencer," I reply as I felt Spencer kiss the top of my head.

I then asked "Can we stay like this for a while?"

"Of course Em, anything you want," Spencer said relaxing back and enjoying our closeness. I didn't have any siblings but I've always consider Spencer as my sister.

Walking carefully down the stairs, I walked into the living room to reveal my dress to my Mum and Dad; who had yet to see it.

"How do I look?" I asked gaining their attention. It was finally homecoming night and Paige would be here in ten minutes to pick me up. Like most homecoming couples, we were going to a restaurant first before going to the school for Homecoming.

"You look beautiful Emmy," Dad said tearing up a little.

I state "Don't you start or else I'll start."

Mum spoke "You look extremely beautiful. Paige is a lucky girl to be taking our daughter out."

"Too right," Dad agreed with Mum. Along with my ocean blue dress, I wore a matching colour heel only a few inches. I had on a black necklace which had nothing on it but it was from my Dad, he found it and brought the necklace back for me. My hair was hanging loosely down around my shoulders, just the way Paige like it.

I was surprised when I heard the doorbell ring, "I'll get it," Dad offered.

"Be nice," I warned not wanting him to scare Paige off.

"Of course sweetie," Dad said kissing my forehead and leaving to open the door. Moving across the room, I stood next to Mum allow Paige fall access to seeing my dress and me her. Five minutes later Paige walked into my living room wearing a suit, I thought she might've opted for a suit rather than a dress. The suit jacket was blue velvet with black running down the collar and button, this allowed the blue jacket to stand out. Underneath the jacket Paige wore a white shirt, which allowed her ocean blue tie to stand out. Paige wore black suit pants and they matched with her black shoes.

"You look incredibly," Paige said making me smile.

I replied with "So, do you. I love the jacket."

"Thanks, your Mum helped me pick it out."

"What?" I asked surprised.

Mum explained "Paige reached out saying she want to match, I was the only person who knew about you two and had seen the dress."

"Thanks Mum," I say pecking her cheek.

Paige said "I brought you corsage, I wasn't sure if I was meant to. We never discussed that part."

I replied with "I'm glad you did because I did also," I move to pick the white box up from the table.

Paige asked "May I?" she point to my wrist.

"Of course," I say holding my arm out for her. Paige opened the white box in her hand and reveal to me a white lily corsage with blue ribbon to hold it together. Carefully Paige took the flower out of the box and slide it up passed my fingers. In the back of my mind I could hear the sound of a camera going off, which I would be grateful for later but right now I wanted to enjoy the night.

"My turn," I say once Paige finished.

Paige happily offered her hand to me and I say "I didn't know what flowers you liked and I didn't know you had gotten me this." I opened the box to reveal a lily corsage with a green ribbon hold it together. Paige was the first to laugh, I think my parents thought it was sweet.

Mum declared "Alright, stand together and smile nicely." We both moved to please my Mum for her hundred photos.

"Alright, I think that should be enough," Dad said stepping in.

Mum said "Okay, you two get out of here and have good night."

"Thanks Mum," I say kissing my parents cheeks before leaving with Paige.

In the car, Paige commented "Your parents are really sweet."

"Yeah, they are pretty cool. I still can't believe my Mum helped you pick out your suit."

"You don't mind, do you?"

"Of course not. I think it's cute you wanted us to match."

"Yeah?" Paige asked nervous.

"Yep," I say nodding to confirm.

I then asked "So, where are we going to eat?"

"Well, when I was trying to find somewhere to take you. I remember you saying how much you like Italian food. I found this small café like Italian food place, it's nothing special."

"The fact that your remembered I like Italian food makes it special. Plus I'm with you, that's always special."

"You and your words."

"We are both good at our words," I say making Paige blush.

"Can I say just sorry in advance."

"For what?"

"In case my friends are jerks to you, I really don't know how they are going to react."

"It's okay, I can handle whatever they say. I just want to enjoy my night with you, this could be class as our first date."

"Getting a bit ahead of ourselves, aren't we?"

"Oh, sorry," Paige said breaking into a sweat.

"Paige relax, I was joking," I take Paige's hand in mine and added on "If you play your cards right tonight this will definitely be classes as our first date."

"Always a tease," Paige said shaking her head.

At the restaurant Paige and I ordered a meat lovers pizza to share, along with a bowl of chips. The restaurant is small but I like it that way, no body to interrupted us. Paige asked "Are you ready in case things go badly tonight?"

I replied with "Yes, I even put water proof makeup on just in case."

"Does that even work?"

"I don't know, I borrowed it from Hanna. She said it does but I don't trust all the things that come out of Hanna's mouth."

"Yes, I've heard about her one liners that you have to question."

"That's Hanna but I love that about her."

"Love, hey?"

"Not like that, I mean in a friend or sister way."

"I understand what you mean, relax."

"Sorry, I've never really been on a date before. I don't actually know what's suitable talk on a date."

"Don't your friends talk about their dates?"

"Yes they do but after hearing them tell the same stories but with different guys, you get deaf ear and just agree with everything they say."

"That's terrible but brilliant."

"Yeah, it took me a while to learn that trick. Once I knew how to use it, I haven't been able to stop. There's only so many times I can hear Alison tell multiple guys in one day, no and that she's not interested when really she is."

"Ah so Alison plays games."

"Kind of. If you meet her parents, you understand. They are super controlling over Alison and I believe they are insane but I haven't quite broke that to Alison."

"That just leaves Spencer and Aria, we haven't talked about," Paige said hoping she got their names right.

Before I could answer, the waiter interrupted "Here is your pizza and chips."

"Thank-you," Paige and I said at the same time before blushing. The waiter walked away and we picked up on conversation again, if it wasn't for Paige watch beeping when it was time to go; we could've spent the whole night their just talking.

Sitting in Paige car in the school parking lot, I was taking deep breaths trying to calm the butterflies. I had been fine until we pulled into the car parking, everything was suddenly real.

"Emily, if your not ready to do this. We can just go somewhere else, I think there's a good movie on at the cinema tonight."

"I think we are a little over dressed for the cinema," I say taking serval deep breaths.

"Who cares? I don't want you having a panic attack."

"I won't I promise. Just give me a sec, okay?"

"Okay," Paige said taking my hand in hers. I smiled beginning to relax as Paige run her thumbs in circles over my hand, trying to calm me down.

With one last deep breath, I say "I'm ready."

"Are you sure?" Paige asked concerned.

"Yes but please don't leave my side."

"I'll be by your side for however long you allow me to be there."

"See, I told you were good with your words," I said leaning over to peck Paige's lips quickly before slipping out of her car.

"You didn't let me open your door," Paige said walking to met in the middle at the front of her car.

"Sorry," I say feeling back but thinking Paige just became even more cute.

Paige said "At least let me opening the school buildings door."

"You've got a deal."

"Ready?" Paige asked holding out her hand with the corsage on.

"Ready," I say taking her hand with my corsage hand as well. Together hand in hand we walked into the school, only parting so Paige could open the door for me. We walked down the darkly lit hallways before coming to stop behind a line, photos of couples or groups would be taken upon entrance.

Paige asked "Do you want to get our photo taken? We can just skip the line."

"No, whatever happens tonight. I want to remember this night, even if it's a diestar, I want to remember every moment spent with you."

"Okay cutie," Paige said with a relax smile.

It only took ten minutes before we reached the front of the line, "Name?" Melissa asked looking down at her clipboard.

I spoke clearly "Emily Fields and Paige McCullers."

"Emily," Melissa said looking up at me.

Melissa smiled and said "No wonder you wanted to keep her a secret, she beautiful."

"Paige, I don't know if you've met Melissa. Spencer's older sister," I say introducing Paige to Melissa.

"I don't think so. It's nice to meet you Melissa," Paige said holding her hand out to shake which Melissa did happily.

I asked "Why aren't you more surprised?"

"I had a hunch you might be bringing a girl, which you had your own reason for keeping secret. Heads up, the others are all around inside just waiting for you."

"Thanks Melissa," I say as Paige leads us over to the wall. The photography had us stand in different precision before doing a few silly photos, then we were allowed to enter.

Before entering Paige stood me at the door and asked "Are you sure you want to do this? We've taken the photo, so really we can leave."

"Yes, I am sure Paige. Do you not want to?"

"No, I do. I just wanted to make sure."

"Your sweet. Let's do this," I say offering my hand to Paige once again. Together hand in hand we walked into the school, gym. The gym was directorate in blue and white colours, balloons and streamers hang nicely from the ceiling and to the wall. A disco ball shown brightly on the ceiling spreading light through the gym. Tables scattered the gym floors, leaving a space for a dance floor. The hired DJ was set up on a stage, mixing tracks or whatever he did.

"Shall we?" Paige asked bending her arm to me and allowing me to link up.

"We shall," I say linking my arm with hers. As we are walking down the stairs, I see my friends all huddle together talking. The first one to see me is Aria and she lets out a gasps of surprise, alerting the other. Aria wasn't able to speak apparently, so Hanna went looking and then pointed me out to all of them.

I said "Good thing we didn't come out sooner, this dress is too expensive to be ruined by pigs blood," Paige instantly laughs.

"That's the way to get through tonight, make jokes," Paige stated. When we reached the bottom step, it seemed like everyone's eyes were on us and I had no idea what they were thinking.

"Where to first?" Paige asked scanning the room.

"I think it's time to bite the bullet."

"Okay, if your sure?"

"Yeah can't put it off for much longer," I say allowing Paige to lead me over to my friends.

Reaching my friends, I speak "Hi girls, you all remember Paige?" As I spoke I couldn't remember if they had ever meet Paige before this moment. At receiving nods from them all, it appeared they did.

Alison asked "So, she's your date?"

"Yes and her name is Paige," I said feeling slightly defensive.

Toby then spoke up "Hey Emily."

"Hey Tobs," I said stepping away from Paige to hug him.

Toby said with a smile "It's good to see you becoming more comfortable as yourself."

"You knew?" Spencer asked in shock.

I quickly say "I didn't tell him."

Toby said "She didn't have to tell me. I've kind of always known Emily was gay."

"How could you possibly know?" Alison asked.

I then said "Can we not get into this now, I want to enjoy my homecoming with Paige." I link my arm up with Paige's again.

"Good luck with the vote tonight Hanna. I really hope you win," I say before leading Paige away.

"That wasn't too bad," Paige said.

"I can't read them. I don't know if they are happy or angry."

"Don't focus on that. Let's go get some punch and then we can dance, that'll get your mind off of everything."

"Sounds good," I said happy to let Paige lead me towards the refreshments table.

"Hey, can we talk to you?" Hanna asked walking over with Spencer, Alison and Aria behind her. Paige and I were currently sitting down, we had so far dance to at least four songs and were giving our feet a rest.

"Sure," I say gesturing for them to take a seat.

"Alone," Alison clarified.

"Oh," I said looking at Paige unsure.

Paige said "It's okay, go and talk with your friends. I'll be right here."

"Your the best," I say leaning over to peck Paige's lips. Standing up with a smile upon my face, I follow behind my friends who lead me out of the gym all together.

When we reach an empty hallway, I asked "Is this part where you kick me out of this friend group?"

"What? No, Emily we'd never do that," Aria said reassuringly.

Hanna explained "We just want to know what's going."

I replied with "What do you mean, going?"

"Are you and Paige dating?" Spencer asked.

"Technically yes and no. This is our first date and with the way things are going, it won't be our last."

Alison asked "Why didn't you tell us you were gay?"

"Because I wasn't ready, I didn't want to lose you guys, I was scared. I don't know take your pick."

"None of that would've happened," Hanna said.

I said back "How am I suppose to know that?"

Aria reasoned "Because we are your friends."

"Have anyone of you ever had to come out?" I asked already knowing the answer.

I continue with "No, you don't know what it's like. You don't have to come out as straight because that is the worlds normal. I like girls, I like someone of the same sex and that means I have to announce it to the world. None of you know what's it like, so don't question me on how I chose to come out and deal with everything before coming out."

"You are right, we're sorry Emily," Hanna said with genuine sorrow in her voice.

Spencer asked "So what happens now?"

"We dance," I say doing a dorky move to make the girls laugh.

Alison spoke up "Before we do that. Em, I just want to say and this is to all of you. I know I judge your relationships, it's only because I want the very best for my friends. But if Paige, or Toby, or Caleb make you happy then just ignore what I say."

"We do," Hanna, Spencer and I say at the same time.

Spencer clarifies "But we know it comes from a place of love."

"It really does," Alison said heart felt.

I then shout "Come on, let's dance the night away!" I hold my hand out to Spencer who happily take hers, we link hands together. Spencer holds Aria hand, Aria holds Hanna hand and Hanna holds Alison's arms. Together we go charging into the gym, as quickly as five girls wearing high heels possibly could. The five of us head for the dance floor and begin dancing much to the enjoyment of our dates.

"Alright settle down!" Mr Davidson said through the microphone after the music was cut off.

Mr Davidson said "It's finally that part of the night some of you have been waiting for, the announcement of homecoming King and Queen. Can all the nominees come up onto the stage, please?" Squeezing Paige hand, I make my way up to the stage following behind Caleb and Hanna. Noel falls into step with me and even helps me up the stairs.

"Thank-you," Mr Davidson said before adding "Please welcome Melissa Hastings to the stage to announce the winner," we all clap for Melissa.

Melissa spoke into the microphone "Your homecoming King and Queen are Caleb Rivers and Emily Fields."

"Oh my god!" I heard Hanna shout as she pulls me into a hug. I couldn't believe it, I am homecoming Queen; I never thought that'd happen.

Mr Davidson said "Now for the traditional King and Queen first dance," he made a gesture for us to take the floor.

"Shall we?" Caleb asked me holding his arm out.

"We shall," I say smiling as I take his arm. Caleb and I slowly dance along to 'Teenage Dream by Katy Perry.'

"Hanna's not angry, she really wanted you to win."

"But I wanted her to win," I say to which Caleb shrugs. When Caleb feels a tap on his shoulder, he turns to see Paige standing there.

"May I?" Paige asked. Caleb happily hands me over to Paige to continue dancing while going to dance with Hanna himself.

Paige said "I can't believe I'm dancing with royalty, so much pressure."

"Shut up," I say running my fingers slightly through the back of Paige's hair.

"I'm really glad you asked me to homecoming."

"Me to," I say scratching Paige's neck lightly on accident but it didn't seem to hurt.

Paige sung into my ear "My heart stops when you look at me, just one touch and I believe this is real and don't ever look back." I smiled up at Paige before lightly pecking Paige's lips.

I sung back "I finally found you, my missing puzzle piece and now I'm complete."

"I had fun tonight," I say turning to face Paige. Paige wanted to make sure I got to my door safely and walked me to the door.

"Best night of my life," Paige agree.

I state "It's going to get better for two reason."

"Which are?" Paige asked curious.

"Yes," I say.

"Yes, what?"

"Paige tonight has been perfect and I want to see where we go. So, yes I'll be your girlfriend."

"Yes," Paige said quietly while fist pumping the air.

"So cute," I breath out.

"What was the second?"

"This," I said stepping forward and smashing our lips together. Paige and I had only peck, we hadn't fall on kissed and that's because I was saving it for this moment.

Pulling back Paige breaths out "Best night of my life."

"Goodbye Paige."

"Goodbye Emily," Paige said pecking my lips a couple of times.

I then requested "Can you send me a text to know you got home safely?"

"Of course Emily, anything for you; remember?"

"I do," I say thinking I hoped to say that one day in the future at a fancy ceremony with all our friends and family. With one last peck to Paige's lips, I turn and walk up to my front door. Standing in the doorway, I watch Paige get back in the car before driving home.

"How was it?" I heard my Dads voice asked.

I asked "Did you wait up?"

"I just wanted to make sure you got home safely." I smile at my Dads words while closing the front door.

Dad asked again "How was your night?"

"Best night of my life," I say walking over to give my Dad a hug."

"I'm glad. What's with the tiara?"

"Shockingly, I won homecoming Queen."

"Your Mum will be proud," Dad said with a chuckle.

"Dad?" I asked.

"Yeah, Emmy?"

"When did you know you loved Mum?"

"Homecoming, we had been dating for a couple of years. But it was our first homecoming dance that I really knew, I loved her. Why do you ask?"

"I think I love Paige."

"That's great Emmy. Love is always good but maybe wait before telling her, girls tend to freak over those things."

"Very true. But I change my statement, I don't think I love her. I know I love her."

"As long as your happy that's all I want for my baby girl. Now, why don't you head upstairs and sleep? You can tell us all about the night in the morning."

"Okay Dad," I say squeezing him tightly before heading up the stairs like he suggested.

A couple of weeks after homecoming, I walked into the brew with Paige following closely behind me. I didn't have a shift but was here for a reason.

"Hey Max," I say before heading behind through the kitchen door with Paige.

Knocking on the office door, I heard Carla asked "Who is it?"

"Your favourite employee," I say with a smile at Paige.

"Come on in Emily," Carla instructed.

"Oh, you have company," Carla said when she saw I walked in with Paige.

I said "I thought you two should formally meet. Paige this is Carla, Carla this is Paige."

"It's nice to meet you Paige," Carla said standing up to shake Paige's hand.

"Likewise, Emily sings your praises," Paige said making me blush and Carla smile.

Carla asked "Other then introduction, is there another reason you are here on your day off?"

"Yes, I want to bring you this," I say handing over a small stack of photos that Mum had taken and that had been taken at Homecoming.

Carla asked "Did you win homecoming Queen?"

Paige answered "Yep, we are standing with royalty."

"Better watch what I say, hey," Carla said making us laugh.

Carla said "Thanks for these Kiddo."

"Your welcome. Now, we must be going. Spencer invited us to her parents cabin with our other friends, it has a lake; which is beautiful to swim in."

"That's sound amazing. Have a good time, I'll see you in a few weeks."

"Bye Carla," I say.

"It was nice meeting you," Paige offered before we leave the office.

Standing in front of Paige's car, I say "I am so happy to be with you."

"Likewise Em," Paige said leaning forward to capture my lips with her own.

Pulling back I said "Plenty of time for that at the cabin but we have to get there first."

"I guess you have a point but I'll never get sick of kissing those lips of yours."

"Back at ya, McCullers," I say with a laugh in my voice.

Paige asked "Ready to go?"

"Yes," I say moving to sit in the passengers seat while Paige got into the driving seat. We spent most of the drive up listening to music, singing along to song we knew on the radio and holding hands. I was officially Paige McCullers girlfriend and I love that title just as much as I love her.

The End.