Evelyn

Chapter 4 - The Lake House

Looking in the dressing room mirror, I frowned at myself from all angles. "I'm not sure about this one!" I nervously said to Violet.

"Let me see! I'm sure you look beautiful, as usual." I could hear the smile in her response. Sighing, I drew back the purple velvet curtain and was immediately regretting even trying it on. Violet was just staring at me, mouth wide open. "I knew it wasn't me" I mumbled, and turned to take it off.

"Don't you dare even think about taking that off!" She screamed at me. "I've never seen you look..like.." She trailed off.

Feeling uncomfortable, I ignored her and reached for the zipper.

"Evelyn Jane Cooper! If I have to wrestle you, I will." she threatened. "You look stunning. Fit for a queen! That colour is gorgeous on you!" she said, beaming.

"Are you sure?" I whispered. Looking down at the silky fitted bodice that hugged my figure perfectly, like it was made for me. I was also surprised the length was spot on, most dresses I tried on barely came to my calves, but this one flowed down to my toes and was the most amazing colour blue. Turquoise to be exact.

Violet nodded eagerly. "Okay, sold! I'll get it."

----

Linking arm and arm we headed back to the car, getting strange looks as we did. People in this town weren't used to seeing anyone dressed this fancy, ever.

I need to get out of this small minded town, I thought to myself. In Brooksbridge you couldn't get away with farting, within seconds everyone would know about it. Thank god we were getting away for the day.

"How about we go get our hair and makeup done, really go all out?" Violet asked, as she jumped up and down in her seat. She got excited so easily.

"Sure! Great idea." I replied. "We can head out then and let loose! It's been three months, we have so much partying to do!" Catching some of Violets contagious mood.

She won't know what hit her later when she finds out what we're doing. I'm such a good friend. Then I laughed insanely to myself, but got no reaction from Vi. She was well used to me being a weirdo.

After beautifying ourselves, I drove us through the town. After we passed each club, Violet would shout "what's wrong with that one?" Each time I shrugged and told her I had somewhere better in mind.

----

The whole journey I avoided Violets questions, it was really hard to keep it from her.

Eventually she fell asleep, thank god. The rest of the drive was quite boring with just the radio for company.

As we pulled up the stone covered drive, I coaxed her awake. She finally stirred.

"Wh-where are we?" She slurred. I grinned back, "we're here."

She sat up straight and glanced around. "I don't see anything?"

"In two seconds you will."

Just then we pulled up in front of the lake house. Even at night you could see its beauty. It wasn't big by any means, just one floor and a front porch. Ivy crept up the outer walls as if caressing the wood.

Violet gasped. "Where is this place? It's like something from a dream." A look of total awe on her face.

"It's a hidden gem." I said as I opened my door, stepped out and breathed in the fresh air.

"What are we doing here?" She asked me.

"I told you, it's a surprise." I smiled knowingly as I walked up to the front door, which was painted the most beautiful shade of red and pressed the doorbell.

Minutes later the door creaked open and Mark peered out. When he realised it was us he gasped in shock and then smiled, a real genuine smile.

Stepping out onto the porch, he asked. "How did you find me?"

"I have my ways." I grinned and stepped into his arms for a hug. By the way he embraced me, I knew he need us there. Then I turned and noticed Violet. She was in complete shock. When she saw we were watching her, she averted her eyes.

Mark reached out to her and grabbed her so she was snuggled into his side. He couldn't see her face as it filled up with the rosiest blush I had ever seen.

All I have to do now is figure out Marks feelings.