Page 48 of The Truths We Find

“Follow me,” Alexa says with a grin.

She grabs my hand and leads me outside to a waiting cab. “Are you available?” Alexa asks the driver.

“Hop in,” he responds.

We climb into the back seat, and I hear Alexa tell him to take us to the Venetian.

“Why are we going there?” I ask.

“Because we are going shopping to find you a new dress for tonight.”

“I have a dress already!”

“D, you are not going to accept your first Emmy in a bridesmaid dress you wore three years ago.”

“Okay first off, we don’t know if we won yet, and second, I can’t afford a new dress, especially the ones they have at the Venetian shops.”

Alexa opens her wallet and flashes the cash she won at the airport. “You can’t, but I can.”

“Alexa, that’s your money. I can’t accept that.”

“Dani, you’re my best friend. And we wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you believing in me and this story. I’m buying you a new dress whether you like it or not.”

I don’t know how to respond. Reaching over to give her a hug seems like the only thing that makes sense, careful not to ruin our makeup or hair. “I love you,” I manage to get out. “And thank you.”

We pull up in front of the hotel and follow the signs to the Grand Canal Shoppes. Alexa pulls me into the first boutique she sees and immediately starts pulling floor-length gowns off the racks.

I try everything she wants, but nothing fits right. I hate trying on clothes and can feel all the relaxation from the spa leaving my body.

Feeling defeated, I go back into the changing room to put on my clothes, when Alexa begs me to try just one more on.

I slip on the dress and step out to a row of mirrors. I’m speechless. The dress is stunning. It’s all black with a delicate lace overlay, and cap sleeves that sit just off my shoulders. It hugs my curves just right and gives my chest just enough lift that I don’t need to wear a bra. Every girl’s dream. It’s even the right length, which is a miracle considering my short stature.

“I think we found your dress.” Alexa beams.

“I look hot.” I grin. “Did those words really just come out of me?”

“Hell yeah, you do! Quick, take it off so we can pay and get back to the hotel.”

After I change, I meet Alexa at the counter and notice she’s holding a shoebox with the words Jimmy Choo on the outside.

“Treating yourself to new shoes?” I ask.

“Nope. These are for you. To go with your hot new dress.”

“That’s way too much. I have heels that work fine.”

“Too late. Already paid for. Let’s go!”

There’s no point in arguing. I grab the garment bag with my dress, and we head outside to find a cab.

Once back at the hotel, we have just enough time to quickly change into our gowns and meet Gavin in the lobby.

I put on the new shoes Alexa bought me, and they’re a perfect fit. The sparkling silver strappy heels go perfectly with my dress. I don’t think I’ve ever looked or felt this amazing. It’s a refreshing change, even if it is just for tonight.

Alexa walks through the door connecting our rooms in a deep purple gown. It’s held up by two thin straps, and the silk material looks like it’s glued to her.

“Damn. You look like you’re ready to walk a runway,” I say in awe.