Feelings at Bay

Chapter 11

There were only two more days. The Festival was almost here, so the girls went out shopping special clothes to wear. Amy, having had relatively little experience shopping in general, asked to come along with Jordan and Julianna.

"Oh, you need help getting ready for your date?" Julianna asked, obnoxiously.

"Yeah, I have no idea what I'm supposed to wear."

"We'll find you something." Jordan held back further commentary.

The trio's short walk to the nearest clothing store brought them past the marketplace where several men in grey uniforms ordered things to be moved around. Julianna explained that things were being set up for the Festival.

"Guess they're falling behind schedule."

"Let's keep moving."

More and more construction vehicles drove by as the group approached the store. Several mannequins wore the latest silk on display. The atmosphere was welcoming yet claustrophobic; a lone, glasses wearing college student attended the counter.

"Hiiiiii! We're looking for something for the party."

She looked up at the enthusiastic girl, turned to her friends, and pointed to the back.

"You'll want to check over there." She returned to her reading.

It didn't take long for the girls to get lost in the brightly colored forest. They grabbed practically every other outfit and dashed to the changing area. After several attempts, Julianna and Jordan had found their festive getups. Only Amy remained.

"What are you supposed to wear on a date? I see a bunch of options here, but nothing is clicking."

"Depends on what look you're going for: modest or sexy, exotic or casual, reserved or loosened up' it's all up to you." Julianna said as she pushed past a bunch of shirts.

"What should I go for?"

"Whatever speaks to you." Jordan sighed.

Nothing seemed to catch her eye. The party itself was rural, focusing mainly on food and music. That being said, there have been several occasions where romance would sneak into some lives on that special day. Many girls prayed for their turn. Amy was lucky, being a first timer and all.

"How about this?" Jordan pointed to a crimson dress that looked like it would allow for plenty of movement without tripping.

"I don't see why not; I'll go try it on."

A few minutes later, she came out wearing the dress. It fit perfectly. After making arrangements to show up together, they were ready. It couldn't get here soon enough.

. . .

In a shocking turn of events, John was not ready. As he paced back and forth, he tried to figure out what to wear. There were several options, but he just wasn't sure. Should he go with the full tuxedo look, the navy blue suit, the casual hangout outfit, or even the school uniform? He had no idea.

Katie knocked on his door.

"What's going on?"

"Heard you were having trouble finding something to wear. I found this old thing and thought it might fit you."

In her hands was a white suit and matching pants. They looked brand new.

"Just try it on. You've got a girl to win over."

"I guess I could try it on."

Miraculously, it fit like a glove. Checking himself out in the mirror, he took a deep breath. His sister gave her approval.