The Blind Date

Chapter Four

“What time is it?”

“Eight thirty.”

I stand still as Phoebe adjusts the gown on me, attaching the pins at my waist; it is exactly thirty minutes before I have to be at the Monrovia City Hall ballroom, where the event is happening.

My hair was styled earlier in the day. It is braided in some style that Phoebe said would go great with the dress; she also added some rhinestones for ‘flair.’ I want to look as simple as I’m allowed to.

“I think that’s it. How does it feel?” Her words are a bit warbled, most likely because of the pins between her lips.

I run my hand at my sides and smile. The black, long sleeve form fitting dress is my idea of staying in the shadows while remaining as elegant as possible. It has a deep v neckline and a long slit up to my right mid-thigh. The look is completed with a plain silver belt that acts as a small distraction from the fact that I’m wearing midnight. Phoebe’s words. “Really, really good.”

“It looks good too.” There is a pause. “You look beautiful, Vivian.”

“Thanks. Where is Patricia?” 

“She left an hour ago. Her mom called. Daniel carried her home.”

I nod and sit on the sofa so I can wear my black, strappy sandals that were placed there earlier. I prefer being fashionable and comfortable.

“Are you going to eat something?”

“I don’t think I can.” I sigh and run a finger over my slicked edges. “How long is this thing again?”

“Two hours. Cold feet?”

“I’m tired. Didn’t get to sleep much.”

Phoebe sits beside me. “If you didn’t have to do this, I’d want you to stay home. But you’re expected there. I promise, I’ll describe all the outfits for you.”

I smile at that. “You do have a way with words.”

“Yep. I promise, it’ll be fine. We have to go now.” She places her hand in mine and we stand up together. While we leave the house, I let my thoughts wander.

I wouldn’t have to make a speech or anything but events like these always make me nervous. Maybe it is the amount of people, the sophisticated folks who consider the events a wonderful place to show off their valuables. If I wasn’t blind, the bling would’ve definitely accomplished it. 

We get into the car and leave the yard. I reach for my phone then I remember that Phoebe has it. When she accompanies me to any event, she takes my phone so I wouldn’t be able to work.

Honestly, I don’t know when to stop. But it’s the only thing that I have going on in my life so when it isn’t filling the void, I feel the emptiness.

“Are you okay?”

I smile and nod. “Yeah, just thinking. How are you? We haven’t talked in a while. How’s everything?”

She shifts beside me. “Everything’s fine.”

“Are you sure? How’s your mom? And the Eric situation? There is silence. I sigh and decide to change the subject. She doesn’t want to talk. “Okay. What about what you’re wearing? Describe it to me.”

She laughs a little. “A red satin dress and heels. Nothing special.”

“It sounds pretty special to me. Is it tight?”

“Yes.”

“Oh my.” She starts laughing and I smile. “Now who will be turning heads?”

“The answer to that question will always be you, boss.”