[color=blue]"Projection is an unhealthy coping mechanism, Robert,"[/color] DJ snidely remarked in response to Rob's joke. As he stood up, following the others' lead in ditching the game, he decided to make another quip. [color=blue]"I might be a little late to the dance, I gotta stop by Kathy's Salon to get my hair dun did."[/color] Assured that his friends would leave with a smile on their face, DJ went on his way, accompanying Rob to the parking lot before hopping into his uncle's truck.

The Carter home was rather quiet that evening. When DJ arrived, Max was doing his homework at the dinner table while his mother was finishing up the last of the dishes. DJ gave them both a quick hello before going to his room.

Now, formal wear was not DJ's strong suit in the slightest. Outside of funerals, weddings, and other unavoidable events, DJ stayed far away from anything resembling a suit and tie. Regardless, he made himself dress up for Homecoming, because he knew his friends would never let him live it down. Especially not Isaac.

Theresa, bless her heart, went through the trouble of digging up one of his father's old tuxedos for him. Grey jacket and pants, black dress shirt, and a white bow tie came together to create a look DJ was...actually pretty happy with. Of course, he was mostly just glad it fit him. 

One truck ride later, and he was back at school. Proud of his new ensemble, DJ strutted into the hall with his head held high, offering minor greetings to any other students who recognized him.

[color=blue]"Yes, it's really me."[/color]

[color=blue]"Old suit, actually. Used to be my dad's."[/color]

[color=blue]"Hey, not as good as you, hotshot. You are killing it in those heels."[/color]

[color=blue]"Clear the dance floor. There's a storm coming, and it's looking to be a Cat 5."[/color]

It didn't take long for DJ to spot his friends, as they were all standing in a rather close circle. With a quick adjustment of his tie, he approached, catching the tail end of Rob's words as he reached the group.

[color=blue]"Look, she spends most of her nights drinking prune juice and watching Dr. Phil. I just thought it'd be a good way to get her out of the house."[/color]