Noah Jutila stood at the edge of the crowd, clutching the invitation that had set his heart racing. The air buzzed with laughter and chatter, but his focus was singular—Margo Gru. She was the reason he was here, and the thought of talking to her made his face flush with heat.

Noah hid his face in his hands as he spotted Margo by the snack table in a stunning red dress. His friends nudged him, encouraging him to approach her, but his anxiety was palpable. "Dude, you're at her party! Go talk to her!" one friend urged, but Noah could only mumble about turning into a tomato.

Edith smirked, warning everyone about the dreaded consequence of chickening out—eating one of Kyle's mystery treats. The crowd groaned collectively, and Noah lowered his hands just enough to watch Margo explain the game. "If you get a name, you have to dance with that person," she said, holding a small box.

His fingers trembled as they reached into the box, brushing against a slip of paper. Noah pulled it out, his face turning crimson as he read the name: Margo. The party erupted into laughter and cheers, and Margo, with a raised eyebrow, declared them dance partners.

"I promise I won't bite," Margo teased, placing her hands on his shoulders. Noah, stiff with nerves, nodded and tried to follow her lead. Despite his initial awkwardness, Margo laughed, easing the tension. "You know you're allowed to look at me, right?" she teased gently.

"You survived," she grinned, and as she walked away, she tossed a compliment over her shoulder that left Noah reeling—Margo thought he was cute. As the party continued, Noah stood in place, face hidden, his mind spinning with a mix of disbelief and happiness.