Dare [unfinished.]

12 | LITTLE BLACK DRESS

"Little black dress
I can't take anymore
It's not right, it's not right
It's not right you know"

- Little Black Dress, One Direction

— — — — — — — —

CHAPTER TWELVE
LITTLE BLACK DRESS

     THE dress was cut mid-thigh and was covered in rose lace. The bodice was reminiscent of a corset, the structure showing through the sheer material. The skirts were quite loose and not at all fitting. The bowed straps laid bare against her shoulders, just waiting for someone to pull it free to expose the skin beneath. Veronica tucked those dirty thoughts away for another time. She was still with her mom, just thinking about that made her cheeks tint.

"Still fits like a glove," Hermione said, pulling another box from the stack. "I think you'd appreciate these."

It was another crisp suede box but was significantly smaller.

"Mom..."

"Think of it as a prerequisite if you ever change your mind."

Veronica drew her brows together. "A prerequisite."

"I'm not forcing you into anything Ronnie, it's just something to think about."

Veronica pulled the lid off of the box, and pushed the white tissue paper away from the shoes. She barely suppressed her gasp as she took in the black suede heels that had red underbellies.

"Why?" Was the only word that came to mind.

"I feel guilty for never being here for you and that either of us allowed you to become so distant. If I'd known or even payed attention—" her mom started to spill, words never ending—"we might've been fine or even closer. But it's not your fault that your father is more focused on his work than his family, not to mention that secretary he has around."

"Secretary?" Veronica asked. "Is he—?"

"Yes, Veronica, he is. If that weren't the case why would I be here?"

"Because you wanted to see me?" She responded meekly, knowing that it wasn't the answer.

"Because I finally can."

Her fingers trembled, why now? "Is there something I should be worried about?"

Her mom didn't answer.

"Mom?"

"Mija, just promise you won't lose sight of who you are. Do something I could never do."

"And what's that?"

"Be independent."

•

ARCHIE checked his phone.

It was nearing eight and he didn't know whether or not he should wait outside of the Pembrooke or if he should go straight to Thornhill and wait to see her there. But thinking of the rhymes they sent back and forth, it was wise to stay in his car, or just lean against it as he waited.

While he did, he went through his Instagram feed. The typical posts of selfies and party related popped up, but the real fun was in the stories, the close friends list.

One was of Reggie dancing next to Midge, something he should really sort out.

Another was of Chuck Clayton being dragged into a closet of sorts. He already knew where that was heading.