I sat at my keyboard, trying to figure out the bridge my hands were not understanding. My phone vibrated.
Will B: We’ve been invited to a dinner tonight. I’ll pick you up at 6:30. Dress nicely. No sweatshirt.
Audrey: Thanks for the update. Frankly, I don’t own a dress.
Will B: Can’t you borrow one from Lara?
Audrey: She’s a bit… bustier than I am.
Will B: I’ll send over some money and help soon. Be ready.
I didn’t respond. I was confused as all get out. Why would Will take me to a dinner. Was I suddenly his “escort” now too? I heard a buzz…
“Hey Audrey… It’s Freddie, Will’s sister.”
“Hey…”
“I heard you need some assistance in the fashion department.”
“I guess.”
“Well, come on then!” She laughed
I threw on my ratty sweatshirt, in spite of Will and ran out the door. Getting to the lobby, I saw what appeared to be a model.
“Hi! I’m Freddie!” She exclaimed, hugging me.
I tried hugging back, but it didn’t work well. I wasn’t used to hugs. Or any sort of affection for that matter.
Freddie was beautiful. Although she was short, was she mighty. Long blonde hair that was as shiny as silk. She made it seem like it was effortlessly done. Green eyes that reminded me of an enchanted forest, and the fashion sense of a Parisian. I would not be surprised if she’d modeled in the past.
“Well come on!” She laughed
“Do you want to walk?” She asked
It was a beautiful day. The sun was shining, not a cloud to be seen. I could use the walk.
“Sure.”
As we walked, Freddie told me all about her work as a nurse. She loved it more than anything.
“I know I don’t look like it, but I’m smart. I’m actually a MENSA member. I know it doesn’t seem like it. But I feel like I’m supposed to be a fashionista as well.”She laughed
“You’re a quiet one… I like that.” She said, opening the door to a store whose name I couldn’t pronounce.
“Frederica, how lovely to see you!” Exclaimed a man from behind the counter
“Freddie’s my nickname.” She said to me
The man came out from behind the counter and hugged her tightly. These people were way too affectionate.
“Hi! I’m George… Freddie’s high school love…” He teased
“You’ve been gay since you were born.” She threw back
“The girl doesn’t lie.” Laughed George
“So George… this here is Audrey. A friend of Will’s, she needs a dress for tonight. Any way you could help her out?”
“Of course!” George exclaimed
He motioned to follow him. Freddie and I picked up our pace and followed him up a newly carpeted staircase.
“These are our new arrivals.” He said
The room was filled dresses any girl would die for. Freddie looked like she was in Heaven. I on the other hand probably looked as if I’d seen a ghost.
“Well you do have that magnificent red hair to work with.” George commented, scouring the racks.
“Try this!” He said
The dress was shorter than everything I’d ever seen. A beautiful turquoise blue, but it had a severely low cut.
“Are you sure…”I asked
“Just try it! What’s it going to hurt?” Freddie asked
I stepped behind the dressing room door and Freddie shut it for me. I slipped into the dress…
Holy shit… I’d never seen myself in a dress, let alone looking amazing. It fit perfectly, and worked well with my hair. I opened the dressing room door. George and Freddie looked as if they were seeing their favorite boy band within five feet. Screaming and squealing, they came over and hugged me.
“Girl, you look like a girl!” Freddie smiled
“Wow, if I wasn’t fixed on men… I’d be all over you.” George concurred
I couldn’t help but laugh nervously.
“It’s okay Audrey, you look amazing.” Freddie ensured
I nodded.
