Pretend Perfect

Part 10 - A Shopping Spree

After stepping outside, unable to contain her anger, Zoey let out her frustration by kicking the floor and venting her emotions. She looked at Ella, her eyes filled with fiery determination. "I would've kicked his ass if you didn't stop me back there," Zoey exclaimed, her voice seething with anger. "You were right about him. I had a different opinion when I first met him, but now I see how these so-called famous organizations treat small companies like us." She let out a deep sigh, trying to release some of the tension.

Ella, always calm and composed, approached Zoey gently. "Just leave it," she said soothingly. "Come on, let's get out of here." As they walked away, Ella's phone beeped, indicating a new message. She opened it and a smile instantly crossed her face. Turning to Zoey, she said, "We're going straight to shopping."

A hint of excitement filled Ella's voice, momentarily pushing aside the frustrations of the earlier encounter. They hailed a taxi, and Ella guided Zoey to a boutique, sharing her plan along the way. "We should get stunning dresses. There's a party at Times Square, and I just received passes. We should look amazing for the event."

Zoey's face lit up at the prospect of something positive happening after such a challenging day. Curious about Ella's sudden change in mood, she asked, "Are you trying to lift my spirits with this shopping spree?"

Ella gave Zoey a playful thump on the shoulder, leaving her slightly suspicious yet intrigued. "You'll see," Ella replied with a mischievous smile.

Upon arriving at the boutique, Ella sifted through the racks and found a stunning pink evening gown for Zoey to try on. As Zoey stepped out of the fitting room, she looked absolutely fabulous in the dress. Ella, on the other hand, settled for a stylish and casual short dress.

Zoey inquired about the cost of the dresses, and the shopkeeper revealed the price: $699. Zoey was taken aback by the hefty price tag. "Ell, what are you doing? It's $700!" she exclaimed.

Ella shrugged off Zoey's concerns, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "So what? I absolutely love it, and it'll be perfect for the night," Ella explained. "We're taking them."

Zoey tried to protest, telling Ella that she didn't have to do this, but Ella insisted. "We have to hurry. There's more to the shopping," Ella teased. Zoey couldn't help but wonder about Ella's sudden change in behavior. "You're acting weird, Ell," she remarked, her suspicion evident. In response, Ella playfully thumped Zoey and left her in curiosity.

After enjoying a satisfying lunch, Zoey and Ella made their way back to the hotel, their shopping bags in tow, ready to embrace the rest of the day and the adventures that awaited them.

After their return to the hotel, Ella swiftly attended to her emails, while Zoey took the opportunity to freshen up and prepare for the forthcoming evening. With anticipation in her heart, Ella clicked on the email notification from the esteemed Lee Groups, initiating the download of the attached files. Meanwhile, seeking information about alternate accommodations, she decided to contact the hotel's reception.

Dialing the reception desk, Ella awaited redirection to the reservation team, her mind abuzz with possibilities. The pleasant voice of the receptionist greeted her inquiry, promptly transferring her call to the appropriate department.

"Good evening, how may I assist you?" a voice from the reservation team welcomed Ella.

"I wanted to inquire about the availability of any exclusive suite," Ella requested.

"Certainly, we do have a private suite room available," confirmed the reservation team member. "May I ask under whose name the reservation should be made?"

"Please reserve it under the name Peter and Zoey," Ella responded decisively, her confidence undeterred. "And kindly place the bill in my name Ella for settlement."

Acknowledging her requests, the reservation team ensured the successful reservation and reassured Ella of their willingness to accommodate her preferences.

"Thank you" Ella expressed her gratitude.

With the reservation successfully secured, Ella ended the call and turned her attention back to the downloaded files. It wasn't long before Zoey emerged from her refreshing session, ready to join in their evening task. Together, they delved into the files, immersing themselves in the details of the project they were working on.

As the evening settled in, Ella reminded Zoey to get ready, saying, "Zoey, it's time to get ready. We don't want to be late."

Zoey emerged beautifully dressed in the gown Ella had chosen for her, complemented by matching heels and a bag. Ella, on the other hand, appeared in her casual short dress, looking more simple compared to Zoey's elegant attire. Zoey looked at Ella and asked, "Ell, don't you think this gown is a bit too extravagant? I feel like I'm going on a fancy date."

Ella denied her concerns and said, "No, Zoey, you look stunning in it! Trust me, it's perfect for the event."

Ready to go, they both headed out and hailed a taxi. Ella took out her phone and started texting someone. Curious, Zoey asked, "What's this event all about?" Ella replied her fixed to the screen, "We're almost there, and you'll find out soon enough."

The conversation then shifted to Pete. Zoey shared her unsuccessful attempts to reach him throughout the afternoon, expressing her concern. Ella offered her insight, "He must be caught up in a meeting or with a client."

Zoey let out a playful giggle, adding a hint of mischief, "I hope it's not a lady client keeping him occupied." Ella joined in the laughter, appreciating the light-hearted banter between them. Their taxi finally arrived at their destination—the vibrant and bustling Times Square, alive with neon lights and the sounds of city life. Stepping out of the cab, Ella and Zoey stood side by side, ready to embrace the adventure that awaited them.