Surprisingly Royal

👸Chapter 14:Gowns

We make our way to the gown section, and honestly? It's like a dream. Elegant gowns hang neatly on silver racks, sparkling under the store lights.

To avoid the temptation (and financial damage) those gowns might cause, I quietly slip away, hoping to not get too attached to anything. Once I catch feelings for a dress, it's game over and my wallet definitely isn't ready for that. The thought of trying them on? Not exactly thrilling either.

"Where do you think you're sneaking off to, young lady?" Matilda calls out.

"Nowhere," I reply, playing it cool.

"Then come here and check out these gowns! They're gorgeous. I swear you'll find the perfect one," she says, full of excitement.

"I'll pass. I already have a dress for the ball," I remind her.

She pouts. "Ugh, why didn't you tell me earlier? So why did you even come with me?"

"Because I promised you I would," I shrug. "Besides, I didn't bring enough cash to splurge on gowns here anyway. I was just planning to get something simple."

She softens a little. "Alright, I get it. But since you're here, you're not leaving without an outfit. My treat. Don't argue ! I won't take no for an answer. You can always wear it for another event."

Is she serious right now?

These gowns probably cost more than my entire wardrobe combined. I'm not about to let my rich friend spend that much on me.

"They're way too expensive, Matilda. I can't let you do that," I say, shaking my head.

"Stop being difficult, Ciara," Rebecca chimes in. "If she doesn't mind, just let her. It'd be weird if the two of us were trying on gowns while you sat around doing nothing."

"I don't mind," Matilda insists. "But if it makes you feel better, you can pay half."

I hesitate, still unsure, but she keeps pushing—and I know how stubborn she can be. Saying no would just be a waste of energy for both of us.

"Okay... fine. You can cover half," I sigh in defeat.

"Yay! Let's get started then," she cheers, and Rebecca giggles right along with her.

I just shake my head and laugh under my breath.

That's when the boys show up.

"What's all the excitement about?" Fynn asks, plopping down on a couch near the dressing rooms.

"Nothing much," I say casually.

"So, found anything good yet?" Carlos joins Fynn, sounding mildly interested.

"We're just getting started," Rebecca replies enthusiastically.

"What've you guys been doing this whole time?" Carlos asks.

"Just chatting," Matilda answers, still flipping through gowns.

"You all do realize we don't have all day, right?" Carlos grumbles.

"Yeah, yeah, we know. Now quit with the questions and let us focus," I shoot back.

He rolls his eyes in response.

I look through the racks, but everything seems either too flashy or just way too complicated for my taste. Most of the gowns have tight corsets and a million laces. Just looking at them makes me feel breathless.

Eventually, I give up and slump into a chair next to Fynn.

"Hey! Why are you sitting already?" Matilda calls out.