Chapter 19
The prom dress store looms before me like some pastel–colored prison. I cross my arms tightly over my chest, scowling as Emma practically drags me towards the entrance.
“Come on, Scarlett 11 be fun,” she chirps, all bright and cheery
“Fun? More like torture, I muster, digging my heels into the sidewalk. “I’d rather cat glass than cry on frilly dresses”
Emma rolls her eyes and gives me a gentle shove through the door. “Drama queen. Just give it a chance, okay?”
As soon as we step
p inside, a wave of perfume and excited charter hits me. My eyes dart around, taking in all the tulle and sequins. Dresses in every color imaginable are crammed onto racks stretching as far as I can see Girls giggle and twirl in front of mirrors, their faces glowing with excitement.
My stomach churns. This is so not my scene. I shift uncomfortably, wishing I could bolt.
“See anything you like?” Emma asks, already flipping through a rack of emerald green gowns.
Yeah, the exit sign,” I quip, earning another eye roll
Il from her.
hesitate, my fingers hovering over a rack of midnight blue dresses. “I don’t even know where to start,” I admit, barely above a whisper.
“That’s what I’m here for,” Emina says, nudging the gently. “How about this one?”
She holds up a sleek navy gown with delicate silver beading along the neckline. My eyes widen a bit, and I reach out to touch the soft fabric
“It’s not terrible,” I say, a hint of interest sneaking into my voice. “The color’s kind of nice” I murmur, pulling it out for a closer look
Is this excitement? The thought catches me off guard, and I push it down.
“Ooh, that would look amazing on your”“” Emma exclaims, her eyes lighting up-
I bite my lip, fighting back a smile. “Maybe I’ll try it on. You know, just to humor you.
Emma beams. “Great!”
My heart races as I slip into the fitting room. I’ve never worn anything like this before, and I’m half–worried I’ll look ridiculous. What if it doesn’t fit right? What if I-
But as I slip the dress over my head, I take a deep breath and face the mirror. The gown hugs me perfectly, the deep blue making my eyes pop. For a moment, I don’t even recognize myself
“Is that.. me?” I whisper, running my hands down the smooth fabric. I twirl a little, watching the skirt flare out. A small smile tugs at my lips.
Maybe this wasn’t such a terrible iden after all.
I step out of the fitting rooin, my heart pounding as I stare at the floor, suddenly nervous about Emma’s reaction.
J
“Oh. My. God” she gasps,
My head snaps up, worry filling my chest. “Is it that bad?”
Emma breaks into a huge grin. “Are you kidding ine? Scarlet, you
you look absolutely stunning!”
A warm blush creeps up my cheeks. “Really!”
“Seriously, you’re like a total knockout,” she gushes, circling me. “That color is perfect on you, and the fill You’re gonna turn heads at prom!”
I can’t help but smile, feeling a weird surge of confidence. I turn to look at myself in the full–length mirror, seeing myself through new eyes
“I can’t believe I’m saying this,” I admit, smoothing down the fabric, “but I actually kind of love it
Elema claps her hands excitedly. “Seer I told you this would be fun! I bet Valentine will love it too.
My heart skips at the mention of Valentine’s name. “He’ll probably tease me,” I mumble.
“You should tell him the color so he can find something to match you,” she says, grinning.
1/3
2:28 PM d
Chapter 19
I open my mouth to reply but freeze as a familiar group walks into the store. My stomach sinks, Emily and her posse have just walked in.
“Oh no,” I whisper, shoulders tensing.
Emma follows my gaze and frowns. “What’s wrong? Do you know these girls?”
“Yeah,” I say, trying to keep my voice steady. “That’s Emily and her crew. They always have something to say.”
“Ah, typical,” Emma mutters
should leave, I say quickly.
Her eyebrow shoots up. “Leave? Because of some mean girls? Don’t tell me you’re scared.”
“Of course not,” I mutter, shifting uncomfortably.
“Then we’re staying and finding you some shoes to match that dress,” she declares.
1 grin. “Yes, Emma”
“Well, well, if it isn’t our favorite wannabe princess,” Emily’s voice rings out. “Did you get lost or something? The thrift store’s that way.”
kty checks heat up as I clench my fists. “Ignore her,” I whisper to Emma, who’s already glaring at Emily and her friends.
*Seriously, Scarlet!” Emily sneers, stepping closer, her posse snickering behind her. “You really think you can pull off the prom queen vibe?”
I square my shoulders and smirk. “Oh, Emily, I didn’t realize you were so concerned about my fashion choices. How sweet of you to take time out of your busy schedule of being a walking cliché to give your opinion”
Emily’s eyes narrow, and her lips twist into a scowl “Excuse me?
“You heard me,” I say, dripping with sarcasm. “Could you be any more predictable? The queen bee and her little worker bees, buzzing around. It’s like you’re all auditioning for a bad teen movie”
Enima 5 stifles a laugh her eyes sparkling.
“At least I have friends,” Emily snaps, cheeks flushed. “Unlike you, little mass loner. Who are you even going to prom with, anyway? Your imaginary
boyfriend
1 roll my eyes. “Actually, I’m going with Valentine. You know, the guy you’ve been trying to sink your claws into for months? Guess he prefers me over some walking Instagram filter”
Emily’s mouth falls open, and her posse exchanges wide–eyed glances. “You’re lying,” she sputters, voice going shrill
“Actually, she isn’t, Emma cuts in.
Emily narrows her eyes at her. “And who are you?”
“My stepmother, Emma,” I say coolly. “Anyway, we’re done here. Let’s go. Enima”
Emily blocks our path, her eyes flashing. “You think you can waltz in here and steal Valentine from me? You’re delusional.”
I raise an eyebrow. “I didn’t steal him. He asked me. And, in case you forgot, he told you I was his girlfriend.”
“Um.. he did say that, Em,” one of her friends mutters beside her
Emily glares at her friend, but I see the uncertainty on her face. “Whatever,” she buffs, trying to keep her cool. “This isn’t over, Scarlet. You think you’re so clever, but—”
“Bye, Emily. Good luck with everything.” I cut her off and stride to the cashier with Emma beside me.
Once we’re out of carshot, Emma throws her arm around my shoulders. “Great job, Sear! You handled that like a pro!”
I let out a relieved breath. Thanks! They’re so annoying.”
“Did Valentine really ask you to be his girlfriend! Your dad will lose it when he finds out,” Erina laughs as we head to the car.
“Oh god, please don’t tell him. I’m not actually Valentine’s girlfriend,” I groan.
“Why not? I think you two would make a cute couple,” she says, grinning.
2/3
2:20 PM
Chapter 19
“I don’t like him like that?” 1 squeal.
But deep down. I’m not so sure anymore.
AD
