Page 31 of A Win-Win Situation
I move from one rack to another, examining the various styles and fabrics before picking up a few dresses, and holding them up to imagine how they would look on me. A sweet sundress catches my eye, and I add it to my pile before remembering what Lucas said. Returning it to the rack, I go for a few staple pieces instead: little black dresses, evening dresses, and some work attire. I also purchase three new blazers and blouses, along with two pairs of jeans. It’s a good start but I will have to do a lot more shopping after the wedding.
Every time I think about that word,wedding, my stomach rolls and I feel as if I’m about to vomit.
"What are you wearing on Saturday?" Adeline asks as she looks through the racks of clothes.
"I don’t know. We’re only going to the town hall."
"Okay? But you’re getting married, so you still need to wear something suitable. What about this one?" She pulls out a white midi-dress with bare shoulders. It’s simple, which makes it the perfect piece. I take it from her and hold it up to my body.
"Go try it on," Sophie says, and I listen.
I stand in front of the mirror in the boutique’s dressing room, examining my reflection. The dress is fitted and it accentuates my curves. I feel beautiful and sexy, but then that familiar voice creeps into my head,"Babe, you know I think you are beautiful, but maybe a super tight dress isn’t the best choice."
That voice makes me look in the mirror through another set of eyes. The dress is beautiful, but it could look better if I had time to lose a little weight.
I shake my head, stopping myself from giving any attention to the unhealthy and unnecessary thoughts. Who cares if I don’t have the flattest stomach or that I’m rounder around my hips?
I take a deep breath and remind myself that I’m beautiful just the way I am. I deserve to feel confident and sensual, and I can’t let anyone else's opinions bring me down. The most important thing is that I value myself.
I think that’s what the article,How to Love Yourself in 12 steps,said.
With that thought in mind, I decide to step out of the changing room and show the girls.
Both Sophie and Adeline look up, their faces breaking into wide smiles at the sight of me in the white dress.
"That. Is. Perfect," Adeline exclaims as she rushes toward me, her hands landing on my waist.
"You look beautiful." Sophie joins Adeline, her hand raised over her mouth. "Why does it feel like I’m going to cry?" she wonders aloud.
"Thank you. I think this is the one for the occasion." I give a little twirl, and both Sophie and Adeline clap their hands in excitement.
"Lucas is going to go crazy when he sees you," Adeline exclaims, her initial reluctance now replaced by enthusiasm.
"Do you think so?" I give them an uncertain smile.
"I know so." Sophie adds.
As much as I don't want to care about his opinion, something in me seeks his validation.
I guess we’ll see on Saturday.
THIRTEEN
LUCAS
Ispent my entire Friday morning making calls and preparing the necessary documents for our marriage. Thankfully, everything seems doable. Although Leora's long-stay visa is not yet secured, I’m confident that it will be obtained before her ninety-day visitation period ends. The visa requires various documents as evidence, such as proof of accommodation(my apartment), proof of financial means(which I’ve taken care of by arranging her new job and salary), and proof of marriage(will be obtained tomorrow). The remaining details will be handled by my lawyer.
As I’m reviewing some finances, I come across a purchase from a jewelry store—the rings, I suspect—but I do a double take at the amount as it doesn’t make sense.
A knock on the door interrupts me.
"Come in!" I call out.
"My apologies, Mr. Ayoub," Camille says as she enters my office. "Miss Davis is here and she claims to have?—"
"Let her in." I interrupt. Leora strides in with confident steps, wearing a pair of tight jeans that look painted on, and for a split second, all I want is for her to spin around. She holds asmall bag in her hand, but something else catches my attention. Something small around her finger.
"Are you kidding me?" I mutter under my breath.
