The Two Lanis

Chapter 2

"Miss Lehlani," says the sales assistant when Shawn and I enter Lou's boutique.

Tomika took off after we had an argument. She did not believe me when I told her that my dad beat my ex up so that he would break up with me back in high school. It might sound far fetched but it is actually true. I heard it from the horse's mouth. Actually I overheard my dad speaking on the phone so I know it's true.

"Hey Jan. Is Lou here?" I ask.

"Yes. He is in his office," says Jan.

"Okay. Thanks," I say with a smile. Shawn and I walk to Lou's office which is upstairs.

Lou has designed a couple of outfits for me. From when I was still a toddler. My mom was always a lover for fashion so at all events she made me look my best. That was how Lou and I got acquainted.

When we reach upstairs I softly knock on the door.

"Come in," says Lou from inside so I open the door and we enter. When Lou sees us he immediately stands up with a smile. "Mademoiselle Lehlani ,monsieur Shawn. What a pleasure it is to see you here."

"Hey Lou," I say I walk towards him. He greets me with a friendly hug.

"Wow. It's been long. Please sit down. Would you like something to drink? Some snacks?" Lou offers.

"I'm good ,thanks. Shawn?" I ask as I sit down on the sofa near the window.

"Do you have some whiskey?" Shawn asks.

"Of course, I do. You know my love for whiskey is as deep as my love for fashion," says Lou as he walks to his table and pours two glasses. One for Shawn and one for himself. "Here you go. The best in the word."

"Thanks. Next time I need good whiskey I know who to come to," says Shawn and they clink their glasses.

"Cheers!" They both say.

"So what do I owe the visit?" Lou asks.

"Well , the thing is — I need an outfit for my birthday party," I tell him.

"Then you came to the right place. What type of dress do you need?"

"Well. I'm going to change into four outfits throughout the night. I already have the other three. I just need a formal dress for when the party starts. Something jaw dropping and stunning," I say.

"Jaw dropping and stunning. You got it. I can make it happen. When is the party?"

"It's in two days," I whisper.

"What!? Two days. That is too short notice. The only stunning thing I can make in two days is a handkerchief. Not an actual dress," complaints Lou.

"I'm sorry. I know it's short notice but I know I can count on you. If you can't make a dress for me then I'm sure you have something readymade I can wear," I say. "Please!"

"I definitely can not make a dress in two days. But I might have something you can wear," says Lou.

"Really. That's awesome. What is it?" I ask.

"Well, I wasn't done making the dress but I'm sure I can quickly finish it up before your party," says Lou.

"Oh my gosh! You're a lifesaver. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" I squeal.

"You can thank me by sending my money to my bank account. I'll mail you the bill," says Lou.

"It's okay. You'll get your money. And more. You're a fashion superhero," I say.

"You can say that again," says Lou with a smile.

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Saturday night I am at the Queen State Tower where my party is being held. The Queen State Towers is an exquisite building where only the best events are held. It is very difficult to get a reservation. You need to be either influential or crazy rich.