I glance at my reflection, surprised at how the dress seems to transform me. Not quite Zoey-level transformation but certainly better than gym-goer Carlie.
The top is an elegant sleeveless number that rises up across my clavicle. It has a small slit that shows off just enough cleavage and not a single trace of the birthmark that drives me nuts.
Lily was right, it was a good choice. It’s comfortable yet chic, striking the perfect balance.
“Thanks, Lily. I ... I feel good in this,” I whisper, but butterflies burst in my midsection and I let out a jagged breath.
Lily grins, then ushers me over to the bed. “Okay, distraction time. Tell me more about this session with Jillian. It sounds like she was being a bit of a drill sergeant.”
I wince just at the memory. “It was brutal. As someone who’s just getting into fitness for the first time, she had me doing things I’m pretty sure were designed for Olympic athletes. And now, I’m paying the price. Every. Single. Muscle. Aches.”
“Well, you know, they say the best way to relieve muscle tension is through ...otherphysical activities.” Her grin widens suggestively.
I blink at her. “Lily, I already told you, I’m not going to sleep with him on the first date—” My face heats up at the thought. It’s not like I haven’t slept with someone with far less between us than a first date.
“Who said anything about sleeping?” Lily retorts with a laugh that turns into a soft snort. “I was going to suggest a hot bath, but your mind went straight to the gutter,Miss Romance Writer.”
“Yousowere not going to suggest that.” I roll my eyes, but can’t suppress a giggle. “A hot bath does sound heavenly, though.”
Lily nods, her expression turning more serious. “But on a more practical note, have you tried any pain relief gel or something? Might help with the soreness.”
“Yeah, I probably should have slathered myself in it before you helped me into this dress,” I say, imagining the glamorous picture that paints.
Lily rummages through her purse and pulls out a small tube. “Here, take this. It’s a lifesaver. Just don’t ... you know, confuse it with your toothpaste. Or use it on any … sensitive parts, if you know what I mean.”
Shuddering slightly at the thought of confusing it for toothpaste or lubrication, I take the tube and read the label.
“Thanks, but I think I’ll be okay.” I say handing the tube back to her, a sudden thought striking me. “Wait, has London been giving you these muscle soreness survival tips?”
She grins, a blush tinting her cheeks. “Let’s just say he’s very ...resourceful.”
We both burst into laughter, the tension in the room easing. It feels good to laugh, to not take everything so seriously for a moment.
As Lily helps me put everything back into my closet, I can’t help but feel grateful for her presence. And for her ability to make me laugh even when I’m a bundle of nerves.
When I walked into the Dirty B’s book club a few months ago, I didn’t quite know what I’d find.
But I’ve been pleasantly surprised to find at least one really good friend. Not that the others aren’t—but Lily just seems to understand some of my weird quirks.
It’s nice to have a friend like her again. Especially after what Sasha did with my stupid ex.
“So, back to the date,” Lily says, pulling me from the sudden sour mood that threatens to take me under. “I really think you need some boots paired with this dress. Do you have any?”
I nod, pointing to the back of the closet. “Yeah, I think I have some calf-high ones. Back there.”
Lily bends down and fishes them out. “These?” She holds up my brown leather boots that haven’t seen the light of day in years.
“That would be them.” I nod.
She stands up and hands them over. “They’ll look great. Put them on.”
I smile, feeling a surge of confidence as I do as she asks, only wincing once. “Thanks, Lily. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
She gives my shoulder a gentle squeeze. “What are friends for? Now, remember, just be yourself. Adam’sluckyto be going out with you.”
“Let’s hope he thinks so,” I whisper.
“Iknowhe will,” she fires back with a seriousness that says there’s no room for argument.