She came to the Valentine’s dance expecting a night with the people she trusted most. She’s leaving it alone — until someone quietly decides she doesn’t have to.

Mary, golden-haired, dressed in soft pink lace, standing at the edge of an event hall glowing with Valentine’s decorations. Tonight her boyfriend showed up with her best friend instead of her. Then she found them together — kissing, in a hallway, like her feelings had never mattered at all.

She knows what she needs to do. Walk away. Move on. It doesn’t make it hurt less.

A stranger crosses the room, says nothing, and simply stands beside her.

She’s about to ask for one dance where she doesn’t feel completely alone.