When she first awakened, she didn’t move. Instead, she snuggled in closer, pretending that she was still part of their embrace.

But eventually, she sighed and let them go. Moved gently out from the covers, tucked them in again around the lovers she’d been sleeping with for the past few weeks.

Miranda sighed a little in her sleep, a smile momentarily glowing across her face. Her husband, Ray, unconsciously pulled her in a little closer.

And Wallflower’s heart ached.

Reluctantly, she walked to the apartment’s balcony, still nude, and stepped out into the moonlight and the cooling breeze. Closing her eyes, she allowed herself to relax into the moment, the gentle wind encompassing her, drying what little sweat remained.

No one would see, of course. But that hardly mattered. She knew she wouldn’t be coming back.

Ray and Miranda had been making jokes about how maybe they should have a third key made for her over dinner, and that was as clear a hint as she could ask for that she’d worn out her welcome. Which sucked, she really liked them. And, sometimes, it had seemed like they’d really liked her.

But in the end, it was always the same. That was just how it was for her. How it always had been, even in school. Alone. Standing on the outside, looking in.

At least now they would remember her.

Sighing a little, Wallflower Blush padded to the bathroom and started the shower. She nicked a little of Miranda’s body wash, and her shampoo. She knew they wouldn’t mind. Likewise, one of the smaller towels when she was done.

Then, silently, Wallflower started gathering her scattered clothing in the darkness, smiling a little as she did. Tonight had really been something. Maybe on some level, they’d all known it was goodbye, and had wanted to go out with a bang.

She grinned a little as she fastened her bra, pulled her shirt over. Well, they’d certainly done that. She wouldn’t be surprised if the neighbors lodged noise complaints.

Her stomach growled as she was putting on her pants, and she froze. But they barely stirred. Wallflower glanced at the kitchen, then shook her head and grabbed her shoes and socks. Better not push her luck. Nobody in this equation needed to deal with a nocturnal Walk of Shame.

She sat and pulled on her footwear, then stood again with a sigh. She paused at the bedroom door again, gazing longingly at the couple. They’d shifted into spooning, and the splash of silver moonlight framed them so perfectly it hurt. They were both so beautiful.

I wish I was one of you, Wallflower thought sadly. Either one of you.

Then, she moved silently out of their bedroom, their apartment, and finally their lives, so they could get back to enjoying themselves without her.

Author's Note

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Ending Credits: Hey You, by Pink Floyd.