Formally versus Formerly (Cassie gen)

[storypaint]

Title: Formally versus Formerly
Fandom: Animorphs
Length: 130 words
Prompt: writing_game: O Character: Oily +2
Pairing: Cassie gen
Other: post-war
Excerpt: Rachel would know what to do about this, but she isn't here (every time I say that, it hurts a little less, when it should hurt more, but it's the truth).

I've had oily skin in a dozen different forms, but at least then it was accepted and normal. Oily skin on prom night? Not so much.

I am staring into the bathroom mirror, looking at the pimple that's sprouted there without warning, and, I must admit, frowning a little. Rachel would know what to do about this, but she isn't here (every time I say that, it hurts a little less, when it should hurt more, but it's the truth).

"Cassie!" my mother calls. I know she wants to get going to my hair appointment, so I take one more look at the pimple and go downstairs, smiling.

I'm a teenager going to prom. One little pimple is nothing compared to what I've faced.

I'll enjoy it, for Rachel.