Chapter 11

• Kira commented with a touch of cynicism as she applied her vibrant red lipstick, "I have a feeling this party won't be very enjoyable." I responded with a hint of sarcasm, "Well, thank you for your upbeat outlook." She shot me a mischievous grin, her beauty radiating effortlessly. Observing her, I couldn't help but wonder how our mutual friend Josh would react when he saw her in that stunning outfit. His response might range from something like, "Oh, that's not really your style," to a more understanding, "You look incredible, but I know I'm the one you're going home with." However, I couldn't deny that there was a certain thrill in the prospect of a little jealousy, as it added an interesting twist to the evening. Just a touch, though.
• "You look incredibly alluring," I observed, examining Lee in the mirror, while my own reflection stared back at my rather ordinary appearance. When it came to fashion, I was decidedly average. I knew how to dress smart, casual, and fun, but achieving a sexy look wasn't exactly my strong suit.
• That's precisely why Kira had insisted that I ditch my light blue dress in favor of a dark blue one. It featured delicate stripes that traversed my back, ending just an inch and a half below my derriere. It was a type of dress I wouldn't typically choose for myself.
• The reason it even found a place in my wardrobe was Kira herself. She had a knack for pushing me out of my comfort zone when it came to fashion.
• "Smoky eyes," Kira chimed in with a mischievous grin, emphasizing the need for sultry makeup to complement the daring outfit.
• "It's going to look good on you." With that red dress, it's going to look smoking hot.
• "No, smoky eyes on you, Leah. With that dress, your hair open and straight, you'll look like you walked right out of heaven."
• "Or that I am a sin in myself."
• She laughed loudly, and I joined in trying to calm the butterflies in my stomach. This party is not a very good idea, but it is an idea. And I need ideas right now.
• "Harry is going to lose his mind when he sees you." She punched my shoulder lightly.
• "Yeah? Well, Josh's probably going to keep you at home all night, if you know what I mean."
• "Leah, I kind of always know what you mean. Also, no way in hell am I going to let that happen. We can get to the party, and then we will see."
• I've got to tell you, Kira. I never thought you were such a kinky son of a bitch."
• "Neither did I."
• ***
• "Harry is here, Leah, you ready?" Kira yelled from downstairs, just as I finished applying my lipstick. I could hear murmurs and hellos from downstairs and immediately cursed myself. This was definitely not the second (first?) date I wanted.
• He barely knows me, and is going to be immediately scrutinized by my friends? I mean, Kira alone would be enough to make him regret being born.
• "Coming!" I yelled, putting on my heels.
• Harry looked amazing. Not particularly because he had put any effort into it, which made me want to change my gender. Guys, have it easy.
• I guess.
• "Wow. I mean... you- you just look...." Harry just stared at me, and I want to say I smirked like a sly fox, totally confident in my powers of seduction, but really- I blushed hard and prayed to the Goddess that I wouldn't slip and bump my head on my own heels and embarrass myself.
• "Thank you. You... you look amazing too." Great going, Harry, I have never seen such confidence.
• Well, it's Pete's fault that it's ruined.
• I shook my head. Today is not the day to think about that stuff.
• "You okay?" Harry asked, holding out his hand. I gave him mine.
• "I will be."
• ***
• "What the hell is Gary? The prince of Baghdad?" Kira said, and I agreed. The mansion was huge. It was bigger than, well, any house I had seen. My extended family and my friends' extended families could still live here, and nobody would have bathroom problems in the morning.
• "This is... huge," Josh muttered.
• "You guys haven't been here?" Harry asked, confused. "I thought Pete and you were good friends?"
• Well, if that isn't the craziest question ever.
• "You know Pete?" Josh asked.
• "Yeah, of course."
• Josh raised his eyebrows. "Great. Let's just go in."
• I would, but suddenly it felt like my legs were made of goo, and I died a little.
• "Leah, you okay?" Kira asked, rubbing my arms.
• "No, no. I am freaking the fuck out."
• "But... you said you were going to be fine?"
• "I say a lot of things, Kira. It's kind of your fault if you believe all of them."
• She sighed. "Well, I believe that one. Come on, you're going to be fine. We're all here."
• I looked at all three of them and finally nodded. The most that could happen is humiliation and death by embarrassment, right?
• I am used to it.