Sealed with a kiss (WomanxWoman)

17

The big day had finally arrived. Cherry insisted I accompany her to the salon to get ready for the gala. It felt special, like a ritual only the two of us could share. We both indulged in manicures, pedicures, and then had our makeup and hair done. I chose a refined, elegant updo. My hair was swept back and styled neatly, with a few loose strands framing my face, softening my look. My makeup was delicate, emphasizing my eyes with a subtle smokiness and a bold red lipstick that matched my dress, adding a timeless, classic elegance to my appearance.

Cherry, on the other hand, looked like a vision in her floor-length gown. The rich, royal blue color of her dress made her blue eyes stand out brilliantly. The dress hugged her figure, flowing seamlessly into a slight train that trailed behind her, creating an almost ethereal effect as she moved. Her hair was styled in a half-up, half-down hairstyle, combining the elegance of an updo with the freedom of loose curls that cascaded down her shoulders. The top half of her hair was pinned delicately, while the rest flowed freely, giving her a look of effortless sophistication.

"Okay, we're ready! Let's go; I don't want to be late," I said, my voice tinged with excitement and a hint of nervousness.

Cherry paused, eyeing me from head to toe with a contemplative look. "Something's missing," she murmured.

I furrowed my brow in confusion. "Nothing's missing, and we don't have time! We're going to be late!"

But Cherry, undeterred by my response, rummaged through her bag until she pulled out a large, velvet jewelry box. With a flourish, she opened it, and I couldn't help but gasp. Inside lay a matching set of a necklace and earrings, glinting in the light. The necklace was breathtaking, a delicate V-shaped design of small, sparkling stones that followed the curve of the neckline with a luxurious grace. The earrings, slender drops of similar stones, mirrored the elegance of the necklace, cascading in a gentle line that seemed to catch every bit of light. Together, they formed a cohesive, dazzling set that elevated my entire look.

"For you, gorgeous, to complete the look," she said softly, fastening the necklace around my neck. I gazed at myself in the mirror, feeling overwhelmed by the transformation. I had never seen myself look this beautiful.

"I'll bring these back to you at the end of the night," I murmured, still captivated by the sight.

Cherry laughed, brushing off my words. "Oh, stop it. They were just lying around, gathering dust." She dismissed it casually, but her eyes were warm. I felt a rush of gratitude, pulling her into a tight hug.

"You're the best. I love you," I whispered, moved beyond words.

"I love you too," she replied, her voice laced with a hint of sadness. Her eyes glistened, and I instinctively reached to wipe away a tear that slipped down her cheek. We both knew that if love were a choice, it would be so much easier to choose each other. But my heart belonged to Charlotte, and that was something neither of us could change.

"Come on, Cher, we're going to be late!" I tried to lighten the moment.

Cherry's lips curled into a mischievous smile. "That's the whole point, sugar. Fashionably late." She winked and pulled me towards the limo waiting outside. For once, arriving somewhere in a limo actually felt fitting.

As we settled into the plush seats and the limo began its journey toward the hotel, Cherry turned to me, a curious, almost pensive look in her eyes. "Speaking of love, have you told Charlotte how you feel about her?"

I hesitated, my fingers nervously tracing the outline of the necklace. "No, it's... complicated. We're always sneaking around, and I don't want to bring it up before I know where she stands with us. She did say the secrecy is only temporary."