“I need a dress for a date, and you, Gwen, need an outfit for your first ice hockey game as the star player’s girlfriend,” Lisa explains. Her words linger in my mind, and I feel a wave of nerves settle in.
“I never really thought of it that way,” I admit, my voice a little unsteady.
“We’ll all go to the game,” Tess adds from the passenger seat, trying to reassure me.
“Yes, we will!” Lisa says excitedly. “And we’ll have drinks at Zane’s place afterward. He’ll love it.”
The idea of being the star player’s girlfriend still sits heavily in my thoughts. I do like Zane, I don’t regret anything that’s happened, but it’s still a lot to process. I close my eyes briefly and lean my head back against the seat.
“Wait,” Tess says suddenly. “What date? What do you need a dress for?” she asks Lisa, who clearly can’t contain her excitement.
“It’s a bit early to talk about it, but I’m going on a date with a really cute guy. I’ve known him for a while, but people change, right?” Lisa says, half to herself.
“I’ve seen it firsthand,” Tess replies, crossing her arms with a confident nod. “A year ago, I would’ve laughed if someone told me I’d end up dating Leo, but now he’s the sweetest person I know,” she says with a soft sigh.
“You two are adorable,” Lisa says warmly.
“I didn’t know you were an Ella Langley fan,” I comment as another song starts playing.
“Are you kidding me? I’ve seen her live at least twenty times,” Lisa laughs.
“Twenty?” Tess asks in disbelief.
“I haven’t even been to a single show, and you’ve seen Ella Langley twenty times. What am I doing wrong?” I laugh.
“We’re definitely changing that. Next time a cool band is in town, we’re going to a show,” Lisa insists.
We’re almost at the mall now. I recognize the coffee shop and the taco place down the street when my phone buzzes.
ZANE: Hope you’re doing ok. I learned yesterday you look really good in red, in case you need shopping advice xx
I can’t help but smile and blush as I stare at the screen. The fact that he remembers the color of my thong makes my chest flutter in a way I can’t quite explain.
“What are you smiling about?” Lisa asks. I glance up at her through the rearview mirror, unsure of what to say. “Actually, if it’s related to my brother, maybe don’t tell me,” she adds with a laugh. “Unless you want to. But don’t.”
“He’s so dreamy and sweet,” I sigh as Tess laughs.
“I don’t know about the dreamy part, but he’s definitely sweet,” Lisa agrees.
“Since Leo isn’t your brother, I need some fun lingerie,” Tess comments.
“He kind of feels like a brother to me, you know,” I tease Tess, earning another laugh from Lisa.
“Alright, let’s get to shopping,” Lisa says as she parks in front of the mall.
The number of people walking around makes me a little nervous. Chicago is big, but sometimes it still feels like a small town. I take a deep breath before stepping out of the car.
“You’re going to be fine,” Lisa reassures me. “And if anyone tries to bring us down today, I’ll handle them,” she adds, placing a hand on her hip.
“You know, I actually believe you,” I laugh as we head toward the entrance.
“Malls always feel overwhelming,” Tess says, scanning the area. “I don’t really go shopping anymore.”
“Ok, we’ll be strategic,” Lisa tells us as she starts listing things off. “We need lingerie for Tess, a super cute ice hockey outfit for Gwen, and a date outfit for me. Let’s start here,” she says, leading us into a clothing store.
“Didn’t you move back recently?” I ask. “You know this place better than we do.”
“I remember the things that matter,” Lisa laughs.
