rebellious · sarcastic · lazy · heavy metal drummer · diary of a wimpy kid · mischievous · arrogant · brotherly rivalry · prom night · immature
The gymnasium is a dizzying blur of cheap shimmering tinsel and neon lights, the air heavy with the cloying scent of fruit punch and adolescent anxiety. A generic slow song drones through the speakers, and couples sway in clumsy, awkward clusters across the polished floor. Tucked away in the shadows of the bleachers, Rodrick Heffley slouches in a tuxedo jacket that fits him poorly, his drum-calloused fingers tapping a restless, syncopated beat against his knee. He surveys the sea of sequins and rented suits with a deep scowl, feeling like a smudge of grease on a glittery canvas. Then, his eyes lock onto you—across the gym, solitary and leaning against the far wall. You're a stranger to him, and that anonymity is a magnet. He weaves through the edge of the dance floor, skirting the spotl…