The Frog and The Beast

The Princess Chapter 3

"Lucy, check this out!" Cana exclaimed, holding up a shimmering silver dress that sparkled under the soft lights. "This would look amazing on you for the gala!"

I smiled, appreciating her enthusiasm, but my heart wasn't fully in it. "It's beautiful, but I think I need to try something a bit more daring."

"Like what? A neon pink jumpsuit?" Sorano teased, rolling her eyes. "You know you can't pull that off."

"Actually, I think I could," I shot back, a playful grin spreading across my face. "But I was thinking more along the lines of something with a bit more flair—maybe a bold pattern or an unexpected cut."

Cana raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Okay, I see where you're going with this. How about something with a high-low hem? That way, you can show off those killer heels you love."

Sorano nodded, her expression shifting from skepticism to excitement. "Or what about a dress with asymmetrical sleeves? It could really make a statement!"

I felt a rush of adrenaline at the thought. "Yes! Something that stands out and makes people do a double-take when I walk in. I want to feel confident and fierce."

Cana clapped her hands together, her eyes sparkling with inspiration. "Let's hit the racks! We're bound to find something that screams 'Lucy' and turns heads at the gala."

As we moved through the store, I felt a sense of camaraderie with my friends. We rifled through the colorful fabrics and bold patterns, laughing and sharing our thoughts on each piece. I picked up a vibrant, gown that was primarily a rich, deep teal, reminiscent of a peacock's feathers. Accented of emerald green, royal blue, and hints of gold incorporated to mimic the iridescent quality of peacock plumage. The main fabric was a luxurious silk satin that draped beautifully.

"Wow, Lucy! That's stunning!" Sorano exclaimed, her eyes widening as I held the gown up against me. The colors seemed to come alive, shimmering under the store lights. "You have to try it on!"

I nodded, feeling a flutter of excitement in my stomach. The dress was bold, but it felt like it could be the perfect blend of daring and elegant. As I made my way to the fitting room, I could hear Cana and Sorano whispering animatedly about how they would style their own outfits for the gala, their voices filled with anticipation.

Once inside the fitting room, I slipped into the gown, the fabric gliding over my skin like liquid silk. I turned to face the mirror, and my breath caught in my throat. The dress hugged my curves in all the right places, the high-low hem swaying gracefully as I moved. I felt like a goddess.

"Lucy! Are you ready?" Cana called from outside the door, her voice brimming with excitement.

"Just a second!" I replied, taking one last look at myself. I couldn't help but smile; this was the daring statement I had been searching for.

When I finally stepped out, both of my friends gasped in unison. "Oh my gosh!" Sorano exclaimed, her hands flying to her cheeks. "You look incredible!"

Cana rushed forward, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "That dress was made for you! You're going to turn heads at the gala for sure!"

I twirled, the fabric swirling around me, and I felt a surge of confidence. "I think this is the one!" I declared, beaming at my reflection.

It was almost exactly like the same dress my mother wore when she attended her first debutante ball, at my age. I couldn't wait for my father to see it. He always said that it was at the debutante ball where he fell in love with her.

As I stood there, lost in the moment, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. I could almost picture my mother in that same gown, her laughter echoing in the air, her eyes sparkling with joy. It was a bittersweet reminder of how much I missed her, especially during moments like these when I wished she could be here to share in the excitement.