Infatuated

Three

I place the pearl earrings in my ears, internally gawking at the beautiful piece of jewelry. With my hair pulled back, the smooth gems are on full display for the evening, allowing me to showcase the Christmas gift I graciously received from Antonio and Nicolette. The day has been mirthful--despite the lack of a 'White Christmas' I've become all too accustomed to--and it will get better in about an hour when Josephine's promotion is announced. We've been sharing quick glances over the course of the day; the hint of a grin that danced on her lips expressed her impeccable excitement for tonight, and I can only imagine what she'll wear tonight for the occasion.

Checking that the earrings are secure, I sit on the bench at the foot of the bed, steadying myself as I place on the nude heels. The soles of my feet will be aching before the first course, but I assume it's worth it for a night out with the family. I grab my purse whilst standing, making sure to pack Lorenzo's pain medication in the event he feels sore.

Now, walking along the first floor of the villa, I make a stop at Josephine's room; the soft light creeping out into the contrasting dark hallway. Knocking on the door softly with my knuckle, I smile as our gazes meet.
"Hey," Josephine says while coating her lips in red lipstick. "Do you have it on?"

I nod, clutching the handle of my purse a little tighter. Sometime amongst the conversation last night, I must have confided in Josephine on my real reason for being out and drinking alone, considering she pulled me aside to talk about it more. It was awkward enough talking about my so-called 'sex appeal' in regards to her brother, let alone having her pick out my lingerie for tonight. On top of that, Lorenzo has steadily apologized for ruining our plans last night, promising that he'll make it up to me. Tonight. Of course, I'm not necessarily complaining, but Lorenzo also doesn't know about the announcement tonight and I'm sure he'd like to celebrate Josephine's accomplishment along with the rest of the family. So, now, I'm standing in blush-colored lingerie that has a fifty-fifty chance of being seen.

"Good," Josephine smiles, pulling me from my thoughts. "He's limited in mobility anyways, so it's a perfect opportunity for you to do what we talked about. Yes?"

I nod skeptically, "And you're sure he'll like it?"

"Who wouldn't like their partner to put on a show for them? Corinne, you've got to stop overanalyzing every little thing. You walk on eggshells over the simplest things. Stop. Okay?"

I wouldn't say I overanalyze. . .

"Okay?" She repeats, arms folded over her chest.

I breathe out a small laugh, "Sure."

Josephine places her lipstick in her clutch, chuckling to herself with a head shake, as we exit her room.

"I love your perfume." I compliment the interesting, yet alluring, blend of scents filling my nose as we walk down the hall.

"Oh, thank you. I got it forever ago."

"What is it?" I question, ready to note the brand in my brain for later.

"Back to Black by Kilian. I don't assume this is your preferred scent, but they have others more fitted for you-"

"Mis hermosa hijas, we're going to miss our reservation if you take any longer!"

Vincent's call interrupts Josephine's sentence, causing her to roll her eyes as we turn the corner, coming face-to-face with the rest of the family.

"Soy una mujer de treinta y seis años, padre. ¿Soy capaz de no perderme una reserva, sí?"

"Josefina. . ." Mariana voices in, softly chastising her daughter with one look.

I'm not as well rounded in the Spanish language as I'd like, which explains why I'm the only one looking confused as we all stand in the foyer. Lorenzo takes in a breath as he opens the door, motioning for me to come over while ushering the children outside. I walk towards Lorenzo, despite the, now, seethed conversation behind me. Josephine exits the house before us, walking alone towards the rental cars. I look at Lorenzo, already expecting him to tell me to dismiss the conversation I overheard.