shattered souls By Afsheen k.

Dresses and flowers

Irha

I’ve been tearing through my closet for what feels like hours, and still, nothing seems right for tonight. The clothes hang there, lifeless, failing to match the excitement buzzing inside me. After my lectures, I’ll head to that boutique I love so much. I need something perfect for tonight. It has to be perfect.

Sitting in class, I’m barely paying attention. My mind keeps wandering to him—the man I can’t stop thinking about. It’s like he’s taken up permanent residence in my thoughts, and I’m not sure what’s going to happen after these next two months. That’s all the time I have left working for him, and after that… well, I’m trying not to think about it. I’m just enjoying the way he makes me feel alive, even if it’s selfish.

“Hey, irha!” Lucy, one of my classmates, slides into the seat next to me, snapping me out of my daydream.

“Hey, Lucy. How’ve you been?”

“I’m fine, but what about you? Where’ve you been? Still babysitting the handsome hunk’s son?” she teases, a sly grin on her face.

“What?” I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.

“Oh, come on, rumors are everywhere. We all know you work for him. Hey, can you set me up with him?” she says, leaning in conspiratorially.

If I could get away with one murder, it would be Lucy. I force a smile and respond as politely as I can, “Stop it, Lucy. I’m just an employee. I can’t do anything.”

“Ah, okay. Well, see you around,” she says, waving as she walks off.

“Bye-bye,” I mutter under my breath, relieved to see her go. I’m not exactly close to anyone in my class—maybe it’s my resting witch face that scares them away. Who knows?

I make my way to the boutique across the street after class. It’s owned by a beautiful Pakistani woman, Anabia, who’s probably the only person I’d consider a friend here. The boutique is small but cozy, filled with her enchanting designs. She deserves so much more recognition than she gets.

“Hey, Anabia,” I greet her as I step inside.

“Oh my God, Irha! It’s been so long since you were here!” she exclaims, pulling me into a warm hug.

“Looking beautiful as usual,” I say, smiling.

“Just like you! Now, tell me, what can I do for you today?” she asks, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

“Well, I need something for tonight—something new, something I haven’t tried yet,” I admit, feeling my cheeks heat up.

“Is that you blushing? Must be someone special,” she chuckles, clearly amused.

“It’s nothing like that,” I lie, turning away so she won’t see the flush spreading across my face.

“Mhmm, let’s see what we’ve got for you,” she says, diving into the racks of clothes. We spend the next half hour going through dresses, but nothing seems to fit the vibe I’m looking for.

“Wait, I think I know exactly what you want,” Anabia says suddenly, her eyes lighting up. She hurries into the back room, and after a few minutes, returns with a box. Inside is a pistachio-colored long gown, its neck and sleeves adorned with pearls, with tiny diamonds scattered around like stars. It’s nothing short of perfection.

“Try this,” she urges, excitement clear in her voice.

“But isn’t it too much?” I hesitate, my fingers brushing over the delicate fabric.