Page 56 of Rage
I wouldn’t mind either way. I don’t see it as invasive; all the men just care and worry.
The convertible’s roof slides down and our hair is flying in the wind. We’re all smiles. The car speeding down the road feels freeing, exhilarating even. I can’t help but laugh as Sophie sings, trying to hit a high note, her voice cracking.
After a few songs, we get to the road that leads into town.
“I’m saving you from your bad decisions. Wedding dress shopping is a must. I bet money you’ll find the perfect dress,” Sophie says to Milly.
Milly rolls her eyes but is grinning. “I highly doubt it.”
“Not with that attitude,” Sophie says saucily.
Once we get to the store, we all walk inside. Poor Milly’s eyebrows are up high, and her eyes are bugging out of her head. She looks overwhelmed.
“Go have a look,” Sophie says, waving us in the direction of the dresses.
I follow them, then run my hand over one of the dresses, feeling the soft material under my fingertips. I’m not upset about being here, even after what I’ve been through. I guess I’m just grateful it all happened when it did or I would have never met Rage.
Ava helps Milly while Ivy and I go sit outside the changing rooms. The manager brings us all a glass of bubbly, which I happily accept.
“I heard you’re a jeweler,” Ivy says, her tone curious.
“I am,” I reply with a small smile.
She tilts her head slightly. “Do you do bracelets? I’d love to have one made for Sammy.”
“I sure do. When you’re free at the clubhouse, we can go through some ideas and I can sketch it for you.”
Her face lights up. “Thank you, that would be amazing!”
Sophie sits beside us and we chat, but once Milly and Ava carry a wedding dress to the changing room, we all quiet down and watch intently. I’m excited to see what Milly looks like.
Milly gets changed while Ava takes a seat with us.
“Only one dress?” Sophie asks, looking disturbed.
Ava shrugs. “I think it’sthedress.”
Milly walks out... We gasp audibly. Sophie squeals, stomping her feet in delight.
Milly looks like the epitome of timeless beauty. The bodice with its intricate lace and shimmering beadwork fits her perfectly, the off-the-shoulder neckline is flattering, and the skirt cascades gracefully. As she walks out further, we see a soft train trailing behind her.
“Twitch is going to lose his mind!” Sophie giggles.
I look over and see Ava crying. Milly frowns and walks over to her; they hug. “You look so beautiful,” Ava says, her voice trembling.
Milly looks at all of us. “Thank you to all of you for coming.” She gives Sophie a pointed look. “And thank you for getting me out of my comfort zone. This dress is perfect.”
“You’re most welcome,” Sophie says with a wink. “You owe me money now,” she teases.
We all laugh.
We go home and continue the celebrations with Moscato.
Days pass,and Rage and I settle into a routine of exercising and him showing me self-defense moves. I look forward to it each day.
Everyone in the clubhouse just had a big lunch for the sweet butts, who are leaving. Cash and Rage help them down the stairs with their suitcases. I go to the front door to open it wide for them. Rage gives me a small smile as he walks past.
Trixie is holding out well, but poor Dolly is crying. Her eyes are red and her mascara is running. I see the longing look she’s giving Rage, but I don’t feel jealous. I just feel a sort of sadness for her.
