Alluring Masquerade

Chapter 46 - Sat On The Seesaw.

          The local clothing store was near her house – she decided not to go right into the town centre – and headed for that. It wasn't a large and popular store that everyone knew – even those who weren't living in this city.

          She turned a corner and walked down a few metres to wait at the road. When it was safe to cross, she walked across. It only took her about ten more minutes to get to the shop and she thankfully stopped to enter through it.

          The door clinked when she went through. Looking around for a moment, she found an interesting looking set of dresses that caught her attention. "Hmm..." she muttered under her breath. She took about three of the best dresses that she found best – and her size – since they were just how she liked them. She asked a worker there if she could be directed to the changing rooms.

          "Yes, they are down there and to your right," the worker directed her helpfully.

          "Thanks a lot," Hira thanked the lady, and went to try on her clothes.

          When she entered the room, there were three free cubicles to choose from and she sighed in relief. She chose the one that was the farthest away and closed its door after her. Also, there was a full length mirror available inside as well, which was a huge help.

          One after the other, she had tried on each of the dresses. Ten minutes later, she was standing with her hips on her hands after she had changed back into her own clothes. She stared at the dresses that she had hung on the hooks – to the left of the mirror. A helpless sigh escaped her throat. "It wouldn't take long for Lina to choose, if she was here," she muttered to herself.

          She mulled it over with herself if she could call her friend. It would certainly help her a lot in this situation. She loved all three of the dresses too much. Giving out a frustrated noise – that was somewhere in between a sigh and a groan – she dialed Angelina's number, and waited.

          After the second ring, Angelina picked up. She sounded excited. "Hi, girl!" The smile was evident from her tone. "I haven't heard from you in weeks!"

          "Aww, I know," Hira said knowingly. "How have you been?" she asked.

          "Great!" Angelina exclaimed. "You?"

          "Good," Hira smiled. "Anyway, I need your help!"

          "I'm listening..."

          "Well, I can't seem to choose from three dresses," Hira sighed, and gazed at the garments.

          "Details!" Angelina demanded animatedly.

          After Hira told her friend every detail, she waited for the advice.

          "OK, I suggest..." Angelina stated thoughtfully. "Put them all back, and find a new one. I mean, it's a formal dinner party – not your prom."

          "But they're not even prom dresses," Hira reasoned.

          "Close enough," Angelina giggled. "Buy a 'Anarkali' dress, I hear they are quite a rage these days. It's a beautiful and stunning style for you."

          "Really?" Hira asked uncertainly.

          "Would I lie to you?"

          "No..."

          "Go on, then, get chopping!" Angelina ordered. "I have to go for my dentist appointment now, I'm literally sitting in the waiting room right now." She laughed as if she had thought of something hilarious. "Imagine if you had called me while I was getting me teeth checked out – I wouldn't even be able to talk. I'd sound like Chubaka!" More laughter, and then she hissed. "Ow, my tooth hurts like hell."