Itug on Sulley’s oversized, unflattering college T-shirt. “Every woman should always look her best. When you feel iconic, youareiconic. Time to slay, queen.”
I’m doing my best to be nice, so she agrees to go shopping. I can’t use Reagan’s Black Card if Sulley doesn’t come with me, and I refuse to miss out on this amazing opportunity.
She sighs as she plops down on the sofa of her new apartment. “Ugh, I’m exhausted from the move. I just want to chill this afternoon before we go out tonight. And I hate shopping.” She makes a look of disgust.
I don’t think she and I could possibly be more opposite.
I look up and down her Hanes sweatpants and T-shirt-clad body. “It shows. Don’t you want to look hot tonight? It’s your first night out in Philly,” I note as I plead with her to go shopping with me.
Layla arranged for us all to go out with her husband and his teammates. I have mixed feelings about hanging out with any of the guys my father coaches, but Reagan laid down the law, and I’m trying to ‘play nice in the sandbox.’ Plus, I don’t have anyfriends or regular hookups here. Sitting at home at night is very unappealing. At least I know the Camels players will get us VIP access to every hot club in the city.
She points toward her pathetic excuse of a closet. “I’m sure I can find something to wear tonight in there.”
I gasp. “Your closet is tiny, and it’s not even full. I would need ten closets if mine were that size. And I looked through it. Trust me, you don’t have anything to wear to this club. It’s bougie.”
Fortunately, the apartment I found in Philly has huge closets. My kitchen may be tiny, but who cares about that? I don’t cook anyway.
She scrunches her nose as she takes in my designer jeans, fashionable T-shirt, and pumps. “How much money do you spend on clothes?”
I straighten my shoulders and proudly announce, “It’s an investment. I’m investing in my fabulousness.”
She waves her hand dismissively. “Igenuinelyappreciate you asking, but I’m going to pass. I’m trying to save money to buy a house. I can’t afford to spend a lot on frivolous things like clothing. I’m an old T-shirt, baggy jeans, and sneakers kind of girl.”
I pull out the Black Card from my purse and hold it up. “Reagan is treating. Forallof us.” I look at Palmer. “You too.”
Palmer’s eyes widen. “No, no, no. I hate shopping. They never have things for women my size.”
I shake my head. “Don’t worry. I know where to go for tall women. I have to shop at those stores too.” I’m not as tall as Palmer, but I’m unconventionally tall. I can’t shop everywhere.
Her shoulders fall. “It’s not my height that’s problematic. It’s because I’m fa?—”
“Fabulous,” I interrupt, not letting her get away with a pity party. I hate seeing how insecure she is. Is she bigger than most? Yes. Does she have potential with a little bit of encouragement and finesse? Absolutely. Her eyes are honestly the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. I’ve never met anyone with purple eyes like hers.
I continue, “I’m not taking no for an answer. We’ve all been moving for the past few days, sweating and eating crappy pizza like animals. Tonight is a big night for us. We deserve to get a little spoiled by our billionaire boss.” Plus, I have a few expensive pairs of shoes I’ve been eyeing for months and will gladly let Reagan pay for.
Sulley shakes her head. “I don’t think I’d feel comfortable using her card.”
I roll my eyes. “All our games are sold out because of you. We’re the first franchise in league history to sell out every single game before the season even starts. She’s making a shit ton of money off you.”
She looks down shyly, like she either doesn’t believe the truth of what I just said or is uncomfortable being thought of as the reason for the team selling out. She really does hate being the center of attention and doesn’t appreciate that she’s the face of this team and the league. I’m starting to think maybe I’ve misjudged her a bit.
I sit down next to her and look her in the eyes. “Know your worth, Sulley.” It’s the first time I’ve called her Sulley and not Sullivan. I see a small smile form on her face as I continue, “Spoil yourself. Get used to receiving nice things so you’ll never accept anyone in your life who gives you the bare minimum. Ireallywant to do this for you.” And I mean it.
She sighs. “Fine, I’ll go, but only if we can include Layla and Shay too.”
I stand and pick up my Prada purse before moving the strap over my shoulder. “Already done. And Shay’s girlfriend is also coming. I’ve met Alyssa. You’ll like her. They’re meeting us on Walnut Street in thirty minutes. Now pull down your sweatpants.”
“What?” Her eyes just about bug out of her head. “Why?”
“Pull down your pants. I want to see if we need to shop for lingerie too.”
She bites her lip nervously. “I like cotton. It’s comfortable.”
I sigh. “I thought as much. No man wants to feel granny panties when he slips his hand up your dress.”
Palmer snorts a laugh, and I look at her. “You too, girlfriend.” I twirl my finger in the air and loudly announce, “New lingerie for everyone.”
Palmer’s expression turns horrified.
