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I follow them, Jessie leading the way into the elevator.
“Oh, you’ll miss out,” I wink at Lacey as we step inside. “Because I’d look damn good in a dress.”
Chapter Twelve
LACEY
Walking into the boutique, hand in hand with Grace, feels like stepping into a fairy tale—minus the dragons but with a way better wardrobe department.
The boutique is a haven of soft lights and elegance, a stark contrast to New York's chaos just outside.
Grace's eyes are wide, probably picturing herself as a princess selecting her ball gown. And I'll admit, I am too.
I'm mesmerized by the glittering chandeliers and the endless racks of dresses, shimmering in every color imaginable.
"Hello, hello! Welcome to Souvent Couture!" A woman with a vibrant shock of red hair greets us, her energy infectious. "I'm Ruby, your personal stylist for today!" She shakes my hand with enthusiasm that makes me feel like I've just walked into an episode of "Say Yes to the Dress."
"I'm Lacey, and this is Grace," I introduce us, beaming.
"Delighted to meet you both!" Ruby's eyes sparkle. "Mr. Sullivan's made it clear we're to give you the VIP treatment. We’ve even closed the shop for your exclusive browsing."
She snaps her fingers, and an associate moves to lock the doors, just as Talia—my best friend and the gala event planner—appears outside, her excitement visible through the glass.
Talia waves excitedly, mouthing "Oh my God!" I can't help but give her a thumbs-up.
"Seems we're not the only VIPs," I whisper to Grace, grinning.
"Is she with you?" Ruby asks, noticing Talia.
"That's Talia, also here for the gala."
"The more the merrier!" Ruby exclaims, waving Talia in. "Let's get started!"
Talia enters with a smile that rivals the brightness of the gowns. "Lacey!" She gives me a tight hug. "And this must be the famous Grace. I've heard so much about you."
Grace beams, a few teeth missing from her grin. "Really?"
"Absolutely," I laugh, hugging her to my side. Talia winks at me, always the charmer. "I might have a dress, but I'm keeping my options open."
Ruby orchestrates the afternoon with flair. "First up, some quick measurements. And don't worry, we’ve got refreshments."
She gestures, and an assistant appears with champagne for us and a special non-alcoholic treat for Grace, complete with a cherry on top.
As we delve into the studio, Talia and I catch up, while Grace eagerly absorbs the behind-the-scenes buzz. Ruby guides us through racks to a cozy seating area, surrounded by fabrics and sketches.
I'm in awe of the intricate designs and bursts of color, feeling right at home. Dreaming of being a fashion editor since childhood, this feels like stepping into a fantasy.
Talia nudges me, smiling. "Looks like you've found your happy place."
She's right. Flipping through sketches and touching the silky fabrics, a wave of contentment washes over me. This is where I belong.
Or thought I did.
I touch a silky dress, imagining it in a Julia Roberts movie rather than this studio. "I used to dream about being part of all this."
I give a half-smile, caught between past dreams and present reality.
Talia, always the dreamer, looks at me with bright cocoa eyes. "You know, the gala tonight is full of designers and big names. It's your chance to dive into the fashion world."
