19. 2nd Time's the Charm

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Back to Briar's POV:

It's a Saturday afternoon, and I'm sat in the passenger seat of Sarah's car, the wind tousling my hair as I watch the familiar sights of the Outer Banks blur past. Beside me, Sarah's voice fills the car as she excitedly describes the type of dress she's searching for—a flowing, bohemian style with delicate lace accents.

"I want something simple but elegant," she explains, her eyes bright with anticipation.

In the backseat, Kie nods in agreement, her enthusiasm matching Sarah's. "I'm looking for something a little more fitted, maybe with a bold print or a vibrant color," she adds, her gaze fixed on the passing scenery.

I smile at their descriptions, happy to listen to their plans and share in their excitement. "I already have a dress," I chime in, "but I came along to hang out with you guys."

Sarah glances at me in the rearview mirror, curiosity sparking in her eyes. "When did you get it?" she asks.

I feel a blush creeping up my cheeks as I recall the memory of Rafe presenting me with the dress a couple of weeks ago. "Rafe bought it for me when we went shopping for Topper's birthday gift," I admit, hiding a smile.

There's a moment of silence in the car as Sarah and Kie exchange a knowing look, their smiles filled with amusement. 

Kie's voice breaks the quiet, her tone playful. "Well, isn't that just the cutest thing ever," she teases as she shoves me softly.

I roll my eyes, unable to suppress a smile at their teasing. "Oh, shut up," I reply, my cheeks growing pink.

Soon enough, we pull into the outlets and walk in. Our first stop, Francesca's.

As we step into Francesca's, the soft melody of indie folk music drifting through the boutique. Sarah's eyes light up as she scans the racks of dresses, her fingers trailing over the fabrics.

"I'll just be over here," she announces, already lost in the sea of clothing.

Kie and I exchange a knowing look before making our way to the accessories section.

"Check out these sunglasses," Kie exclaims, holding up a pair of oversized frames with dramatic cat-eye lenses. "I feel like a celeb! Please, no paparazzi."

I laugh, trying on a floppy sunhat adorned with a wide brim and a colorful ribbon. "And I feel like I'm ready for a beachside photo shoot," I joke, striking a pose in the mirror.

Together, we try on an array of accessories, swapping hats and sunglasses as we playfully tease each other and share in fits of giggles.

Meanwhile, Sarah disappears into the dressing room with an armful of dresses, her voice muffled as she calls out for our opinions. Kie and I exchange amused glances, knowing that Sarah's indecisiveness is all part of the fun.

After what feels like an eternity, Sarah emerges from the dressing room in a stunning cream-colored dress, the intricate lace detailing accentuating her sun-kissed skin. The off-the-shoulder style adds a touch of bohemian flair, and she twirls in front of the mirror, the fabric swirling around her .

"OOH, slay girl!" I holler out as I snap my fingers.

Kie nods in agreement, a smile playing on her lips. "Definitely a winner," she confirms.

With a satisfied smile, Sarah nods, already reaching for her purse to make the purchase. As she heads to the checkout counter, Kie and I follow closely behind, eager to continue our search for the perfect dress for the curly haired girl.

As we step into Forever 21, the vibrant colors and trendy displays immediately catch our eye. Kie wastes no time in diving into the racks of dresses, her enthusiasm palpable as she begins her search.

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