Charming Down South

Chapter 16: Breakeven

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LACEYS POV

I slipped my heels on and checked the mirror one last time. for once, I hated how I looked. mrs Abearthy taught me to always accept my body for what it was, yet now here I stand in a little black dress and heels. going to the bar to drink my sorrows away, even though mother alway said. it takes a strong man to drink, but an even stronger one to resist it.

I watched through the mirror as Bella came in, gently shutting the door behind her.

"You look beautiful Lace. I always was jealous of your model looks."

I sighed and gave a weak smile.

"Hey" she nudged my shoulder. "what's wrong?"

I she motioned for me into her arms, and seeking my best friends comfort I broke down.

"Hey sweetie, what's wrong?" She whispered, soothing my hair down against my head.

"I don't know who I am anymore." I sobbed.

"Three days in California and I forgot who I was."

"What do you mean babe?"
She patted my back as I hiccuped and wiped my nose

"Look at me, I'm a mess. I see him once and I fall apart." I motioned to the dress and shoes I was wearing.

"Who, Nick?" She asked looking me in the eyes.

I nodded and stood up.

"I mean, it's so flustering, do you know how hard it is to love someone but not be able to tell them, because you afraid they'll hurt you?"

"Yes I do. all four years of high school."

I stopped crying and turned my shocked gaze towards Bella

"I loved Liam. Even back in high school. I was afraid he'd rather have one of the fake girls instead tough, but when you left I saw him fall so depressed, heck we all did. that's when I told him, and now look where we are."

I hugged Bella tight.

"I'm so sorry" I whispered.

She unwrapped my arms and held my hands.

"You just need to tell him the time he needs it most."

She smiled and unzipped my back for me.

"Now, you will go out and have fun as yourself. just don't get too drunk"

I nodded and slipped on some cut offs, a tank under an old flannel shirt, and my cowboy boots.

"I'll go as my real self."

I walked into the crowded karaoke bar, looked like there's a contest tonight even. I walked up to the bar and signed up.

"You a singer?" I looked up to see the bartender staring intently at me. I grinned

"I dunno are you a bartender"

"Actually, I'm a ninja."

I laughed and took a seat in a stool.

"So, is it wise to drink before performing?"

He shook his head.

"I heard lil' wayne drinks cough syrup, so why not?"

He made me some light alcohol drink and I slowly sipped it, listening to the first few singing acts in the contest.

"Next up, Lacey Bailey"