Tangled

Chapter 56

56 Ava: A Sudden Situation

Before I know it, the salesgirl is ushering me into the dressing room with an armload of clothes. I spend what feels like hours trying on outfit after outfit, parading out for Ivy’s critical eye.

“Hmm, I don’t love that one,” she says, wrinkling her nose at a slinky black dress. “Next.”

I obediently retreat back behind the curtain, shimmying out of the dress and into a pair of high–waisted trousers and a silk camisole. When I reemerge, Ivy claps her hands delightedly.

“That’s the one! You look so chic. We’ll take it. Actually, just keep it on. It looks better than what I brought

over.”

This Ivy is so different from the Ivy I’ve been treated to

up to this point, and I’m dizzy with whiplash.

The process repeats at what seems like a dozen different stores throughout the afternoon. Shoes, dresses, blouses, skirts, pants… by the time we hit the fourth boutique, I’m fairly certain I’ve tried on more outfits today than I have in my entire life.

12:35

56 Ava A Sudden Situation

My feet are screaming in protest from the endless parade of heels Ivy insists I model. I’m parched from barely having a chance to grab a bottle of water.

But Ivy seems to be having the time of her life, reveling in her role as personal shopper and stylist. She flits around me like a deranged fairy godmother, clucking over hemlines and admiring how certain colors bring

out my eyes.

“You have such a great figure, Ava,” she gushes as I self–consciously smooth my hands over my hips in a skintight black pencil skirt. “We simply must get you some things to show it off properly.”

I force a tight smile, feeling distinctly uncomfortable under her appraising stare. Revealing clothes have never been my thing–I much prefer loose, flowy fabrics that skim over my curves rather than clinging

to them.

extricate myself, suggesting we take a break to grab a bite to eat. But

up some protein bars and smoothies. Here, have

12.35

A Sudden

sort of chalky–looking nutrition

a small bite, grimacing

after what feels like an eternity of shopping torture, Ivy seems satisfied with her haul. We pile back into the sleek sedan, and I sink

pulls away from the curb. “What did you

fun?”

sidelong glance, too worn out to muster much enthusiasm.

worry, you’ll get used

a delightful day lounging

beside me, oblivious to my silent

12:35

3/7

A

with my wolf companion. I’ve learned the art of tuning her out while still nodding and making vague affirming noises at regular intervals to keep the

little place I’m taking you to is simply divine. The chef is an absolute genius. You’ll

out the window. The city

suburb.

perfectly manicured lawns and white picket fences stretch out as far as the eye can see. It’s like a postcard image of the American dream.

I’ve long since tuned her out. That is, until the driver’s gruff voice

ceaseless chatter.

tailed. One car, a blue

a little straighter, instinctively glancing

1. us.

craning her

window with

12:35

4/7

A Sudden Situation

hint of

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255