“You almost ready?” Sin asks later that day, looking down at her phone, sitting propped against my headboard in a deceivingly short black pleather skirt with black tights underneath. Her top is mesh, and you can see her black bra underneath it. Black combat boots sit on the floor, ready to adorn her feet.
“How do I look?” I twirl for her after securing my locket around my neck. I wasn’t kidding when I told Collins I wanted to dress up for New Years Eve. I’ve chosen a red, sparkly dress with a drooping neckline showing just enough cleavage. It sits right above mid-thigh and has a small slit on the right leg. I’ve let my curled hair fall around my shoulders, but have a hair tie in my overnight bag for later.
“Holy fuck, you are hot as hell!”
“Thank you.” I give her a small curtsy because bowing will show my ass but I’m not uncomfortable in this outfit. I can’t wait to see Collins’ face when he sees me. He asked if he could see it beforehand, but I told him he’d like the surprise better.
“What shoes?” I ask, holding up a pair of black stilettos and a pair of sparkling heels that match my dress.
“The red. Everyone is going to simply pass away when they see you tonight.”
“I could say the same for you!” I throw back as I clasp my shoes around my feet.
“Let’s go celebrate the new year, Baby!” Sin grabs my hand and drags me out of the apartment and down to where she’s apparently had an Uber waiting for us. The ride to Collins’ place is quick, as we approach the front door, my body begins to heat with nervousness as I recall my homework from therapy. I run my hands down my dress and take a deep breath before knocking twice and then turning back to my best friend.
“You okay?” Sin asks.
“Yep, just nervous for his reaction.” I fib.
“I don’t think that’s going to be a problem, turn around.” Her feline smile spreads before she passes me and enters the home.
I follow her lead to be met with Collins’ hungry gaze, he’s not even trying to hide it and a smirk tilts his full lips when I squirm.
“You are incredible.”
“Thank you.” I don’t let my eyes leave his as I speak. I find myself taking him in as well, black dress pants and one of those God-forsaken white button-ups rolled up to his elbow. His orange curls are messily styled atop his head. “You look pretty hot yourself.”
Collins doesn’t say anything, instead pulling my body to his and gently kissing my lips.
“Ready for a drink?” He asks as he guides me toward the kitchen.
“Maybe just one.” I don’t mention that I want to be clearheaded for later, that if anything happens between us, I want to remember every detail.
“One drink it is then. Wine or mixed?” He asks before everyone notices my arrival.
“Mixed. Vodka soda with lime.” I smile at him just before Enid notices me and starts squealing about what a stunner I am.
It’s edging closer to midnight, about twenty-five minutes to go. The kids are asleep and we’re all lounging in the living area, sparkling cider, beer, and wine in hand, waiting for midnight to strike.
“Does anyone have any resolutions?” Kodi asks.
“Continue my healing journey.” I’m the first to speak up, “with the help of you guys, therapy, and Collins.”
Collins squeezes my thigh in appreciation from beside me.
“Get these two moved into my place,” Conrad smirks toward Enid and Mace, who’s not even paying attention to the conversation.
“Is it a resolution if it’s already planned?” She elbows him in the side playfully.
“Wait, really?” Darcy asks excitedly.
“Yep, Enid and Mace are coming to live with me once their lease is up.” Conrad smiles proudly. It took him a long time to get to this point. The point where he felt like his life was worth living, and that he had a support system that wanted him around. I wasn’t sure how he would assimilate into our group, but these three have quickly become some of my favorite people.
“That’s fantastic news! You know we’ve got all hands on deck when the time comes.” Maverick claps a hand down on Conrad’s shoulder.
“Thanks y’all.” Conrad addresses the room.
“Five minutes left. I’m leaving before it gets too kissy in here.” Mace groans, standing from the couch and walking toward the glass doors. As he slides the door closed, he adds, “Happy New Year.”
