He spreads his hands in awhy notmotion.
I sigh.Going to Ukraine once I graduate is not something anyone in my circle would support, maybe not even Evie.Yet it’s still what I want to do.But is that driven by guilt or something better?
I hear you,I say.
Viktor, you have a ton of potential.If you go to a prospects camp, that team will get a better idea of where you could fit in their organizations.You impress them, and you’ll get opportunities.And if that doesn’t work, I know I could find you something in Europe.You want to keep your options open.
He takes a sip of coffee before continuing.At the end of the day, maybe you’ll choose to go to Ukraine.Believe me, my family from Poland, so I understand how nervous everyone in Europe is about Russian aggression.
I’ve finished my extra breakfast without even noticing it.I rise.
“Thanks, Sid.I’ll think about everything you’ve said.
He shakes my hand and grabs me by the elbow at the same time.Okay, great.I hope you’re enjoying your last year of college.
I am,I assure him, thinking of Evie and the nice lunch we’ll have together.
He slaps my arm.Of course you are.Good-looking guy like you and captain of the hockey team, of course you are.
And for the first time, I can tell someone about my meeting with Sid.Talking things over with Evie will help me make a decision.Because she’s right: if there is a life once my brother and grandmother are safe, maybe there will be hockey in that life.
20
FANCY PANTS
EVIE
TELL HIM TO WAIT FOR YOU IN THE LOBBY,ANNIE INSTRUCTS AS SHE FLAT-IRONS THE BACK OF MYhair.
Why?I ask, even as I message Viktor.
Because every woman should make a dramatic entrance once in a while.Just to make sure he appreciates you.
I’m not into artifice and Viktor is already appreciative, but I do look special tonight.I’m finally wearing the fancy dress I bought on my first shopping trip.I never got to go to any of Alpha Z’s formal dances, but tonight is a holiday reception at the Dean’s house.Yes,I’mgoing to the Dean’s house.Viktor was invited either because he’s on the Athletic Council or because he’s captain of the Mustangs.Or for his general amazingness.
All done.Go look at yourself in the mirror,urges Annie.
We have one wonky full-length mirror that makes me look shorter and Annie look taller.I walk over and admire the sparkly gold wrap dress that shimmers and swirls as I move.
Oh, I look nice!I exclaim.With my sleek hair and new dress, I’m transformed into an elegant stranger I hardly recognize.
Behind me, Annie sighs.More than nice.You look gorgeous, Evie.And you’re going to a glam event.Is this one of your dreams?
No, but it does feel like a scene from a book.I’ve been excited about this event ever since Viktor invited me.I hug Annie.Thanks for all your help.What are you doing tonight?
I have a date with a guy I met at the last Sigma Phi party.She beams.Annie’s social life has been more conventional than my bizarre one, but she’s achieving her own social goals.
I pack the evening bag that I sewed in gold satin to match the dress.Then I put my pretty shoes into a shoe bag and zip up my dress boots.December has hit hard, and the snow is already deep out there.
Carry your coat,Annie instructs.That way he can get the full effect.And I’m coming to take a photo of the two of you.
Isn’t this a little excessive?I wonder.
You’re the one who’s always saying this relationship could end at any time.Don’t you want photos so you can look back on the highlights?
Fine.But honestly, I haven’t worried about breaking up for a while.Things are so good between us.
My phone buzzes.He’s here.
