Feel Pretty

twenty four (Eli)

I gently wrapped the towel around Odell's head, carefully drying his damp hair. The silence between us was thick, but I focused on what I was doing, not wanting to push him when he was already so fragile. After a few moments, I helped him take off his soaked top, revealing his slender frame. He seemed too drained to resist, just following my guidance as Everly handed over a fresh set of clothes.

"Here, get changed into these," Everly said softly, her voice filled with concern. "Then we'll have a talk."

Odell nodded, his eyes distant and tired. As he headed into the bathroom to change, I exchanged a look with Tanner, both of us knowing we needed to help him get through this day.

Tanner leaned against the wall, his face still pale from earlier. "So, what's the plan?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "We need to remind him that Diana wouldn't want him stuck in this dark place. She'd want him to live, to enjoy life even though it's hard. We're going to make today as special as we can for him. It won't erase the pain, but maybe it'll help him see that he's loved and deserves happiness."

Tanner nodded slowly. "She was everything to him... If he can hold on to that love, maybe he'll find his way back."

I glanced toward the bathroom door. "We have to try."

A few minutes later, the door creaked open, and Odell stepped out. I felt my breath catch in my throat. The jeans he had on clung perfectly to his small waist, accentuating his delicate figure. The top Everly had chosen was a soft pastel color that seemed to sculpt his slim frame, making him look effortlessly beautiful.

Everly noticed my reaction and couldn't resist smirking. With a quick nudge, she pushed Odell forward, causing him to stumble slightly into my arms.

Odell's cheeks flushed a deep pink as he looked up at me, embarrassment clear on his face. I couldn't help but smile shyly, trying to ignore how fast my heart was beating. I leaned in closer, bending slightly to whisper in his ear, "You look so damn pretty."

His eyes widened, and his blush deepened. He shook his head slightly, trying to dismiss the compliment, but I wasn't having it. The way he reacted only made me more determined.

"You really do," I insisted softly, locking eyes with him. "Diana always knew how beautiful you were, inside and out. And I see it too. You don't have to hide that."

Everly, ever the supportive sister, chimed in with a playful grin. "Come on, Dell. You know he's right. You're stunning, and we're not letting you forget that today."

Tanner, who had been watching quietly, stepped closer and added, "It's okay to feel pretty, Odell. Diana would want you to see yourself the way she saw you."

Odell bit his lip, looking overwhelmed by the attention, but I noticed a small smile starting to form on his face. Maybe, just maybe, he could allow himself to believe us. Even if it was just for today.

Seeing that spark in his eyes, I felt warmth spread through me. This was what Diana would have wanted—for Odell to see the beauty and strength within himself, and to embrace it. And I'm more than willing to help him realize that, every step of the way.