When the bill comes, Lucille grabs it before I can. "Let me get this."
"Lucille, no. No way."
"I receive social security, and I had a lot of years to save for my retirement. I'm not a poor old woman, ya know."
"I wouldn't have gotten that third drink if I knew you were paying. Gosh, thank you. I promise my treat next time."
"We'll see, but yes, let's talk soon. Let me know how the reunion goes and if you find a new job, use me as a reference."
"Of course."
We hug goodbye, and as I'm walking out of the restaurant, my wobbly legs are a great indicator I'm too buzzed to drive.
"Shit."
The restaurant is attached to a mall. Let's see if they have any nice dresses in case I feel charitable and go as Theo's date. Nothing I have back home fits me well, and I could use a new black dress in my wardrobe.
As I walk into a store, I'm met by a sales associate that sprints to my side.
"Hi, what are you shopping for?"
"I need a black dress."
She takes me in and scans my body type.
"I have the perfect dress for you. Oh my gosh, this is going to look fuckingsick."
Laughing at her brashness, she grabs it before I have a chance to check the details. She walks me over to the dressing room and opens a curtain.
"If this is too small or too big, let me know."
She shoves me inside, and I'm sure the nice little buzz is making this experience far more enjoyable. Shopping for clothes sucks when you have no money to spend and are no longer the size six you used to be.
"What's the occasion?" she asks as she waits on the other side.
"I might be going to a high school reunion."
"You'll kill in it. Is it on yet?"
"Almost."
My phone pings, and I'm sure it's Theo asking for a final answer. But I look at the message and see it's from Dylan.
"Oooh," I say aloud.
"What? Does it not fit?"
"Oh, no. I just got asked out on a date."
"From someone else? Get it, girl."
This is the bossiest yet most supportive sales lady I've ever met.
Before I can decide if I'm ready to date, I announce, "Okay, I'll say yes to the date."
I'm high off this woman's energy. A thrill of excitement runs through me as I realize Dylan thinks I'm worthy of a night out.
Stepping out of the dressing room feeling like a million dollars, I turn to look at the huge mirror with better lighting. The saleswoman takes me in and gasps. I study my reflection with squinted eyelids.
