s h e

chapter twenty-two

It's been a little while since the proposal, and Talia is throwing a masquerade ball.

She just so happens to be filming the first episode of her new TV show in Chicago, and in celebration of the start of production, she's hosting a ball in the heart of the city.

"Melanie Anais Robbins and Winifred Ruthie Seaford, you two bitches better be coming," she tells you after calling the two of  you up one night to discuss the details.

And honestly, how can you say no? You've always loved masquerade balls.

You, Winnie, Kam, and Tate go shopping for dresses one night after Link and Joey get home from work to watch baby Ruthie.

Kam picks out a detailed black mask that makes everyone gasp in awe because she looks fierce. She pairs it with a flowing red gown and suddenly the shop is filled with wolf whistles, which makes the new mother blush and look down at her feet. Aw.

Tate (with her freshly dyed golden brown hair) chooses the most angelic bedazzled white dress in existence. A copper belt accentuates her waist and a white, gold, and silver mask with a beautiful lily on the side frames her hazel eyes. Winnie keeps nudging her and whispering teasing remarks in her ear, and Tatem keeps turning different shades of pink.

You force Winnie into a shimmering gold gown that makes her look like a goddess, and she immediately falls in love with it. The store attendant helps her pick out a mask that hides her features and makes her look more intimidating than she's ever looked in her entire life. A pair of nude heels join the mask and dress in the basket, and Winnie's all set.

Which just leaves you.

After a good two or three hours of scouring the shelves, Winnie squeals.

"Oh my goodness, it's perfect for you, Melly!"

Before she lets you take a good look at the dress, you're shoved into the fitting room.

The dress is darling. It's purple lace and strands of pearls and it makes you look like you belong to another age. Tatem pairs it with a black and silver jewel encrusted mask, one side completely made up of little chains. You have to admit, Winnie's taste in clothing has gotten a lot better since the days of high school.

The four of you pay for your things and go out for froyo.

It's nice to feel somewhat normal for a change.

______________________

As per usual for group events, the gang piles into Link's van (because to be honest, Bucky should never contain more than two people at a time. The car's a piece of junk).

"Melanie! Don't talk to my car like that, you'll hurt his feelings!" You don't even blink anymore. This isn't the weirdest thing the blonde has ever said.

Talia's ball has been perfectly planned down to the very last detail, which doesn't surprise you. You've known the girl since high school, after all. She is a bit of a perfectionist.

Well... More than a little bit.

Winnie's bouncing around,introducing herself to all the guests, which doesn't surprise you.

Kam and Marco immediately seek out a secluded corner, which doesn't surprise you.

Link and Joey get out on the dance floor, trying their hardest to embarrass you, which doesn't surprise you.

What does surprise you is the way Tatem reacts when she sees Wally.

She lets out a little noise of shock and surprise, eyes wide as she hides herself behind Winnie.