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“I just got a text inviting me to Kohen's fundraiser party tomorrow. You?” Cora asks, a worried look on her face.
“I got the same text but from Xzavien asking me to be his date.”
I sit and think about it. I’m leaning towards a yes, but why didn’t Kohen invite me? X has been consistent, I have to give him that, so I send a quick response saying yes and asking what time. My yes is also halfway because Kohen didn’t send me an invite and going with X will bother him. It’s Koehn’s fault. The way he left and just hasn’t responded is fucked up. Why make it seem like you’re interested, tell me I make you weak and that I’m beautiful, and then just leave? I look over at Cora and she is texting away on her phone, smiling like an idiot. She must be talking to Edward, so I continue my mental spiral.
Maybe I’m wrong. Maybe going with X won’t make him mad at all. Maybe I should just focus on X, have fun, and enjoy my time with him. He’s the one trying after all. X has made it clear he wants to date me. He hasn’t played any games like Kohen has. Actions speak louder than words and one make-out session means nothing. He didn’t claim me like he said he would those two times at school.
Besides, I’m a single woman.
We’re quiet as we get ready. She curls her silky blonde hair and I start in on my eyeshadow, going for a smokey look. I’m going to be bold tonight. Makeup is an art and my face is the canvas. A devilish smile graces my face and Cora’s eyes meet mine. She knows what that means. My little devil wants to come out and play.
“Cora, let's go to the mall. I need to look like a fucking model at this party on Xzavien’s arm."
I need something new to wear.
“You don't have to tell me twice, Hunny-buns. Let’s go!”
We jump off the bed and head out the door.
I’m a queen and I wouldn’t dare let him think he made my crown fall.
13
ALEX
We pull into the parking lot an hour later at the premium outlets in San Marcos. It’s a popular shopping spot in Texas. There are restaurants as well. It really is a one-stop shop for any budget and style. They have stores ranging from Burlington and Papaya to Steve Madden, Guess, and Armani. There is valet available, but we opt out. We aren’t bougie like that. Instead, we head to the back of the parking lots where a few parking spots exist. It sucks being so far back, but Cora prefers it.
“It’s good so we can get our steps in,” she always says. Pfft! I’ll stay chubby, thanks.
We get out and start walking to the center of the strip. The smell of fresh rain surrounds us, and moisture still lingers in the air. The rain bothers me. I like to listen to it, but I don’t like to feel it, so I’m glad that it stopped. I also hate the aftermath of the humidity, the way it causes my hair to puff up. Hairspray is not a match for the humidity in South Texas.
“Where shall we start?” we ask each other at the same time.
“Let’s go to Papaya first for old times' sake.”
She smiles big and nods.
We link arms and make our way into what used to be our favorite store to shop at in high school. Granted we haven’t been in here without Cecille, but that’s why it feels right to go there. It’s a small way to feel like she’s here with us shopping. That’s how it should have been. We walk around, the familiarity bringing tears to my eyes. It feels like such a long time ago. Walking in here, and picking some outfits for the night, is a way to include her.
We split up in the store as always. I want something that I’m going to break necks with. I want to feel like Cinderella when everyone stares at her as she makes her grand entrance to the ball. The difference between me and good little Cinderella is that I’m already a queen. I don't need a petty little prince to validate me.
I catch a glimpse of my best friend in my periphery and naturally, she is waiting for me before heading to the fitting rooms. She stands patiently with heaps of outfits in her arms. I laugh as I continue skimming everything on the racks, looking for the perfect thing to wear. It may be time to rethink thewait for each otherclause.
“Go ahead and try them on, Cora. It’s okay.”
“Really?” Her smile is ear to ear.
“Yes, really.”
She heads into the stall and it doesn’t take long for my name to reach my ears. I turn to look in the direction of the fitting rooms and out walks my beautiful best friend. She looks stunning. Her eyes light up when she sees the approval on my face. Her long, toned legs in those high-heeled boots and short pleated skirt are going to get the attention of every guy at the party.
Edward better be careful. Cora is usually more modest, but I loved seeing her step out of her comfort zone since we started college.
“Cora, you look amazing. You’re fucking hot!”
“Really?” she asks, smoothing out the skirt as she makes her way over to the 3-way mirror.
“Yes, bitch. You should know I wouldn’t say something I didn’t mean. If you looked like a trash bag, I would tell you.”
