“You’re going to be fine,” I tell Gwen as she hesitates outside the entrance.“And if someone tries to bring us down today, I will come for them.”
“You know,” she laughs,“I actually believe you.”
“Good.”
“Malls always feel overwhelming,” Tess says.“I never really go shopping anymore.”
“Ok,” I say, switching into strategy mode.“We’ll be efficient. We need lingerie for Tess, a super cute ice hockey outfit for Gwen, and a date outfit for me. Let’s start here.”
“Didn’t you move back only recently?” Gwen asks.
“You know this place better than we do.”
“I remember the things that are important.”
Like where to find emergency smoothies and last-minute confidence dresses.
And apparently, where to park Blake’s car without feeling weird about it. I still can’t believe he gave it to me. I definitely did not tell them that part either.
Inside the first store, Gwen and Tess start flipping through racks. I head straight for the dresses.
Something simple. Something elegant. Something that says I am not intimidated by you, even though I absolutely am.
I pull out a dark green dress that catches the light like silk.
“That color would look gorgeous on you,” Gwen says. I hold it up against myself in the mirror.
“Do you think it’s too much for a first date?”
“What are you doing on the first date?” Tess asks.
“It’s a little bit of a strange story,” I admit.“I told him he had to prove to me that he can be a gentleman.”
That part is still surreal.
“He said he would take me to a fancy restaurant and maybe for a cocktail after.” Which sounds suspiciously like something Blake planned before I even agreed.
“This seems like a great fancy dinner cocktail dress,” Gwen says.“Try it on.”
I don’t argue. Inside the fitting room, I change faster than necessary. Partly because my heart suddenly starts beating like this dress decision is life-altering, which is ridiculous. It’s just a date. With Blake. Ok. Maybe not ridiculous.
I step out.
“It feels like a lot,” I say.
“Are you kidding me?” Gwen says immediately.“This is perfection.”
“I could not agree more,” Tess adds.“You are obligated to buy this dress.”
I turn sideways, checking the mirror again. I do have heels that would work with this. And Blake’s face when he sees it… No. Not thinking about that.
“Ok,” I say quickly.“I’ll do it.”
After paying, we head toward another store.
“The team’s colors are blue and orange,” I say, studying Gwen.“Orange is the best option for you.”
Both of us stare at her like she’s a puzzle we’re solving.
