ONCE MORE, WITH YOU

X

Solené Beckett

"You brought her flowers?" Spencer asked, her voice laced with playful disbelief as she sipped her milkshake.

"Yes, Spencer, for the millionth time—yes!" I replied, rolling my eyes but unable to suppress a smirk.

"I just didn't expect you to go for the grand gesture so soon—"

"It wasn't a grand gesture," I interrupted firmly. "It was simply me showing my gratitude and appreciation. Which, by the way, she loved."

"Well, of course, she did. Everyone loves flowers," Spencer quipped, raising a perfectly arched brow.

Her words drifted to the background as my mind replayed Summer's reaction. The way her eyes had sparkled with confusion and jealousy when she first saw the bouquet—thinking it was meant for someone else. She had no idea that she was the only person who occupied my thoughts, the only one I'd ever buy flowers for. It wasn't just a gesture; it was instinct.

"You're thinking about her again, aren't you?" Spencer's voice broke through my reverie, her knowing smirk already in place.

"I'm always thinking about her," I admitted without hesitation.

Spencer leaned forward conspiratorially. "Since she's living rent-free in your head, do you at least know what you're wearing to the movie premiere?"

I blinked. "Now that you mention it, I haven't even thought about it."

"Well, that's unacceptable," Spencer declared. "It's the perfect excuse to go shopping!"

I laughed, shaking my head. "Shopping would be a lot easier if I had even the faintest idea of what I wanted to wear. Maybe a pantsuit? Something different?"

"You deserve something that'll turn heads." She tapped her chin thoughtfully. "How about we head back to your place, do some scrolling, and then call the designer? There's still time for a custom look."

I nodded in agreement, finishing off the last bite of my Cookie Monster ice cream cone. Spencer grinned, already pulling out her phone to start brainstorming ideas.

As we walked out of the café, I couldn't help but wonder what Summer would think of my outfit—whatever I ended up choosing. Would she notice the way I planned it with her in mind?

Because, if I were honest, I wasn't just dressing for a premiere. I was dressing for her.

When we arrived back at Spencer's place, she was already in full stylist mode. Three outfit options were laid out across her velvet couch like they belonged in a fashion spread.

"Okay," she began, gesturing dramatically. "Option one: a sleek black long-sleeve maxi dress—timeless, elegant, very red carpet noir. Option two: a navy blue embellished pantsuit with feathered accents—bold, edgy, and so you. And option three: a strapless white dress—classic but with a touch of glam."

I wandered over, running my fingers over the fabrics. Each piece was stunning in its own way, but my eyes kept drifting back to the pantsuit.

"So far, the pantsuit is my favorite," I admitted, already imagining how its tailored lines and intricate details would stand out.

"I knew you'd say that!" Spencer beamed, clapping her hands together. "It's daring, it's powerful, and it's a complete statement piece. Honestly, I'm obsessed."

I smiled, but before I could respond, Spencer was already reaching for her phone. "Right, let's make it official. I'll call the designer to confirm the sizing and make sure it's pressed to perfection. Accessories... hmm, maybe silver? Or something understated to let the suit shine?"

"Spencer," I interrupted, laughing. "You're more excited about this than I am."

She raised an eyebrow, hands on her hips. "Of course I am. You're my best friend, and you're about to make your big debut. You have to look unforgettable. Besides..." She paused, a sly grin creeping onto her face. "You know Summer will be the center of attention. And don't even pretend you don't want to make yourself her center of attention."

I rolled my eyes, though I couldn't help the warmth that rose to my cheeks. "I just want to look good... for the event," I said, trying to sound nonchalant.

"Uh-huh, sure you do," Spencer teased, winking.

With a sigh and a reluctant laugh, I let her take charge. Deep down, though, I couldn't deny it—part of me was already imagining Summer's reaction when I stepped onto the red carpet. And if Spencer's choice could make that moment even more memorable? Well, who was I to argue?