De Fragee Prutia

n i n e

The VKs walked through the outdoor hallway on their way to the Activities building. After passing Goodness 101 last semester with flying colors, they now had that block to take up extra classes that they actually liked. Every girl they passed swooned as Jay smiled at them.

"Why do you torture them just pick someone to take to Cotillion already. Or better yet, ask Audrey," Carlos said as they passed another group of girls.

"Audrey and I are strictly dorm room friends, let's put it that way. Besides she's not even here this semester—left two nights ago. No, I'm going solo. Now, all the ladies can get a dance."

"Dude...but if you were gonna ask someone, what's the best way?"

"Listen, all you gotta do..." Jay put his hand on Carlos' shoulder as if he was about to give sound advice. "Is look like me."

"Oh ha-ha."

"Mal!" The VKs heard Jane call out.

"Hey, Jane." Carlos said awkwardly.

"Hey."

"I was wondering if you, uh, liked the carrot cake last night?"

"I had the pumpkin pie."

"Oh, cool, uh." Carlos stumbled over his words.

"Smooth." Jay patted Carlos' shoulders and led him away while he still had some pride left.

"I have an opening for a fitting at three right after Clara, who wants it?" Evie asked the Cotillion committee members in front of her and Mal.

"Me!" Lonnie rushed out before anyone else. "Sorry Jane, sorry guys."

"Perfect. I'll make you first thing tomorrow, Jane. Everyone else, text me, we'll work it out." Evie and Lonnie walked over to the little bench, a few steps away from Jane and Mal, to discuss dress ideas.

"Okay...Mal, I hate to keep bugging you but..." Jane started.

"Yes?"

"The decorating committee needs more answers, like now."

"Jane, I would love to but I need to get to class."

"You know what just nod real quick if you like it. Chair swags, entry banners, twinkle lights. Napkin design, table bunting and we still haven't picked the party favors, yet. We have chains, key charms, pen toppers or we could do all three if we work the budget. Personally, I don't think we'll be in—"

Mal's eyes flashed green as she used her magic to calm herself down and get into royal advisor mode.

"I say pen toppers."

"Yeah? Cool, you won't regret it."

"Okay."

"I can't wait to see what you're going to do for Ben and Nami's wedding." Lonnie come back excited.

"Me too... Wait, what?!" Mal registered Lonnie's words. The only ring Nami had on her finger was Ben's beast ring, nothing near an engagement.

"The Royal Cotillion is like getting engaged to be engaged. Royal advisor plans it all!"

"I knew it!" Evie excitedly chirped.

"Everyone knows it. Well royal advisor and lady-in-waiting but Nami hasn't chosen one yet."

"I didn't know it!" Mal was flustered. "How come nobody told me that! I didn't expect to be doing this my—"