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RAE
It’s winter in Las Vegas.
The June heat has nothing on the ocean of snow inside this room.
“Aren’t they beautiful?” The sales associate beams, smile bright and wide and just as white as the dresses. Her black dress is tasteful, highlighting the straight blond hair that grazes the top of her ass. “I’m Shania. Let me get you ladies comfortable.”
She gestures to the tufted chaises surrounding a central dais. Elle drops into one, accepting a fizzing glass of champagne from Shania along with Annie.
Ten minutes ago, the three of us got into the limo Harrison sent to pick us up from the interview. Now, we’re in an icy wonderland, surrounded by crisp white-and-ivory silk and satin and lace and mirrors.
“When Mr. King’s assistant called to say you were coming, we were thrilled. So, when is the big day? We aim to have the dress ready four to six weeks ahead to allow for fittings.”
“Sunday.”
Her smile falters. “Next Sunday?”
“No, this Sunday.”
Shania’s tanned face pales. “I’m afraid that’s impossible. We have fittings and alterations…”
“It’s not as if we’re making one from scratch. You have finished dresses. Maybe one of them fits.”
Her eyes widen further, as if I’ve suggested tie-dyeing the entire rack.
Shania sinks onto the chaise next to Elle, looking numb.
Despite Harrison’s assurance that today would be a breeze, finding a dress might be trickier than we thought.
The bell over the door sounds. “Good afternoon, ladies. Hope everyone’s decent.”
My heart lifts.
It’s been over a month since I saw Beck, and he’s handsome as ever in dark denim and an aqua-blue short-sleeved button-down with tiny green palm trees. With the mischievous grin and dark hair falling into his sparkling eyes, he looks more at home here than I am after spending a year on the Strip.
“Hey, Queen. I’m sorry I missed last night.” He drags me into a hug without waiting for permission, and I don’t hate it at all.
“You’re busy being a big-shot producer on your series. And you’ve been to my show at least five times.”
“But this was major.”
“Three days from now is major, if you haven’t heard.”
“I did. Congrats.” Beck greets Annie and Elle, giving hugs all around. “I’m here to help. I left the guys to fend for themselves for a couple hours.”
“Have they found a venue?” Annie demands.
“I’m a double agent. Doesn’t mean I kiss and tell.” He winks.
“We might need the help.” I glance back at the saleswoman on the couch. “What if we try another store?” I murmur. “Somewhere less formal. Off the rack?”
Beck sizes up the situation with a new look of resolve. “Hey, Shania. I’m Beck.” He plucks the untouched champagne from Annie’s hand and passes it to the sales associate. “Take a sip of this.” She does. “Great. Now I’m going to need to see everything. Long, short, white, colors. Whatever you’ve got in the back of the store.”
He follows her to the back, and I’m already more optimistic as I turn back to the racks of gowns.
“Do you see it?” Annie asks.
“What?”
