by Jaye Wells
“All right, fine, but there better not be any photographic equipment within a three-block radius.”
She giggled. “Just come out already.”
I slowly opened the door and poked my head out, making sure no one was around. The dressing rooms were off a large room with raised platforms and mirrors. The wall divided the area from the rest of the store. When I didn’t see any of the overeager employees rushing around or other brides-to-be, I stepped out.
Syd’s eyes widened, and then she started laughing so hard she doubled over and slapped her knee. I looked down at myself and couldn’t blame her.
“Where are your sheep?” she said, her eyes glistening with mirth.
I wasn’t sure why any woman would choose a Little Bo Peep theme for her wedding. The hideous thing weighed a ton and was covered with yards and yards of white lace ruffles and pink satin. Something told me that Syd’s reaction, though, was due to the bonnet and crook that completed the ensemble.
“That’s funny coming from a woman who looks like an escapee from an aviary,” I said, chuckling.
Syd fluffed the large white plumes that sprung from the bodice of her dress. “I kind of like them. I feel like a show girl.”
We stood next to each other in front of the mirrored wall and laughed helplessly. It didn’t take long for a nosy salesperson to come back to see what all the noise was about. Unfortunately, she arrived at the same time I was making a particularly colorful comment about carrying a blow-up sheep as my bouquet.
Hands on hips, the blue-haired lady, whose name tag read “Doris,” gasped with outrage.
“Do you mind? This is a respectable establishment,” she said, glaring at us.
“Lady, the fact you carry dresses like these says otherwise,” I said, trying to fight a new round of laughter.
“I’m going to have to ask you to leave and never come back to this store,” Doris said, raising her chin indignantly.
Ten minutes later, back in our own clothes, we spilled out the front door of the store nearly hysterical with laughter.
“That’s a first,” Syd said as she gasped for breath. “I’ve never known anyone to get banned from a bridal shop before.”
Wiping tears from my cheeks, I said, “It’s too bad. I think you would have looked fabulous in the Carmen Miranda dress.”
We walked down the sidewalk, ignoring the stares of passersby. With unspoken agreement, we headed straight for the Starbucks three doors down.
Syd ordered an iced coffee and then told the barista she’d pay for my order too. I balked, but she insisted she owed me for being such a good sport. She was right, so I ordered the biggest mocha on the menu with extra whipped cream.
We took our drinks to a small table in the corner. I sighed and took a long sip of the chocolaty goodness. Heaven.
Across from me, Syd sipped on her drink with a thoughtful smile on her face.
“That was fun,” she said, leaning back in her chair.
“Yeah, it was,” I said, realizing just then how much I had enjoyed her company. Plus, she had a wicked sense of humor.
“Syd?” I said.
“What?”
“Why are you being so nice to me?”
She hesitated, seeming taken aback by my candor.
“Why wouldn’t I be?”
I snorted. “Do I really need to bring up the fact that our first meeting involved chloroform?”
Chuckling, she set down her cup and looked at me.
“Honestly?” she asked.
When I nodded, she continued. “Okay, do you remember the day Logan and I came over to announce our engagement?”
Cringing, I recalled the scene I’d made.
“Unfortunately, yes,” I said.
“Well, I’ll admit you weren’t my favorite person then. I mean, you’d kidnapped me with the intent of ruining everything the man I love had worked for.”
Uncomfortable, I took another sip of my drink, waiting for her to get to the point.
“So that day, Logan was angry—rightfully so, I might add. And I was upset. But later, I . . . well, I saw you crying,” she said, looking sheepish.
My stomach dropped out from under me. Until she mentioned it, I’d completely forgotten about her seeing me cry my eyes out. Immediately, I felt defensive.
“What does that have to do with anything?” I demanded.
She sighed and put her hand on mine as if to calm me.
“Raven, look, until I saw you so upset, I was convinced you had no heart. When I walked in on you, I was shocked. For the first time, I realized how lonely you must feel. And being no stranger to loneliness myself, I couldn’t help but feel for you.”
“What do you know about being lonely? Everyone loves you.”
“As much as I love Logan and his family, this is all so new to me. I don’t know any other vampires, and I don’t have any close girlfriends I can confide in. So, yeah, I know about being lonely.”
“I hadn’t thought of that. It must be tough to get used to all this.”
She chuckled. “It’s not so bad. But sometimes, it would be nice to have someone who understands this life to talk to. And when I saw you so upset, I thought just maybe you could kind of understand.”
“So you’ve forgiven me for the kidnapping and all?” I asked, hopefully.
“Let’s just say I think you’ve learned your lesson. But if you do ever get a wild hair and decide to wreak havoc, I’ll hunt you down myself.” The last was said with a smile, so I wasn’t offended.
“Deal,” I said, holding my hand out.
She shook it back. “Deal.”
Weird, I thought. Imagine something as embarrassing as her catching me in my weakest moment forging some kind of bond between us. And I did feel something growing between us. Friendship? Maybe.
Syd sighed, changing the subject. “I guess we need to regroup. Trying on ugly dresses is fun, but I really do need to get serious about my search.”
I thought for a moment. “You know, there’s a boutique run by a friend of mine, Miranda. She’s made a bunch of my clothes. And she carries some wedding dresses.”
Syd looked unsure. “No offense, Raven, but I’ve see some of your old clothes. I don’t think leather and latex is my style.”
I laughed. “It’s not like that. I promise. Let’s finish our drinks and stop by. I’ll call Miranda and let her know we’re coming so she can have some dresses ready for you.”
Syd shrugged. “Well her stuff can’t be any worse than what we just witnessed in that other store.”
I smiled and dialed my phone. “Trust me.”
The bell above the door to Divine, Miranda’s boutique, jingled as we entered. To mortal shoppers, it was an upscale store catering to the discriminating fashionista. To vampires, it was a place to get the inside scoop on the latest gossip as well as chic ensembles.
Miranda and I went way back. Her mother was on the council, so we’d grown up in the same circles. While I was considered the black sheep of my family, Miranda was the apple of her parents’ eyes. We’d come to terms with our differing philosophies long ago and remained good friends. My suggestion to Syd that we stop by was partially selfish—I needed to talk to Miranda.
Syd looked nervous as we walked in, but when she saw the interior of the store, she seemed to relax. Classical music and soft lighting added to the comfortable atmosphere.
It didn’t take long for Miranda to appear from behind a red silk curtain toward the rear of the store. She smiled and picked up her pace when she saw me. She looked gorgeous as usual. Her wavy blond hair flirted with her shoulders, and her green eyes sparkled with humor. She wore a classic Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress in kelly green.
She didn’t say anything, just walked up and hugged me. I returned the embrace, closing my eyes for moment. It had been a few months since we’d seen each other. Too long.
“Raven,” she said, a smile in her voice. She pulled back and eyed my clothes with a discerning glance. “What’s
up with the clothes?”
I smiled at her typical candor. The tight baby-blue sweater and camel suede skirt I wore must have come as quite a surprise.
“I’ll explain it later,” I said. “This is Sydney.”
The women exchanged warm greetings, sizing each other up a bit as females tend to do.
“Raven said you’re looking for a wedding dress,” Miranda said.
“Yes, I’m afraid I haven’t had much luck so far though,” Syd replied.
“Hmm. I’m thinking simple. White silk, strapless, A-line skirt. You’re an eight?”
“Wow, yes, you’re good,” Syd said.
“I have a couple of options that might work. If you ladies want to make yourselves comfortable, I’ll bring them out. I’ll just be a minute,” Miranda said.
While she went into the back, Syd and I made our way to the sitting area at the rear of the store. A chaise lounge and two antique chairs covered in the same red silk as the curtain to the back room beckoned us.
Within a couple of seconds, a girl with beautiful mocha skin came from the back bearing two flutes of sparkling champagne.
We thanked her, but she merely nodded and left again.
Syd raised an eyebrow at me as she took her first sip. “Mmm. Now this is more like it.”
“I told you,” I said, sampling my own bubbly. Leave it to Miranda to serve premium champagne. It was part of her philosophy. If you treated the customer like a queen, she’d be more willing to spend money like one.
“I’m surprised I haven’t heard of this place before,” Syd observed, looking around.
“Miranda has a pretty loyal following. But now that you’re a vamp, you’ll probably hear about her.”
“Why’s that?” Syd asked.
“Miranda has famous shopping parties here at night for her vamp clientele. Very exclusive. She’s also the best source of gossip around.”
Syd nodded as Miranda came out carrying an armload of dresses.
“I found several that might work,” she said, pausing before us. “Syd, if you’ll follow me to the dressing room we’ll get you started.”
Syd took her champagne and obediently followed Miranda through an archway off the sitting area. After a few moments, Miranda reappeared. Walking over to the girl who’d brought us the wine, she whispered something to her. The girl immediately nodded and went back to the room with Sydney. Miranda poured herself a glass of champagne and sat next to me on the chaise.
“Carmen’s going to help Sydney for a few minutes. Plenty of time for you to catch me up on this mess you’ve gotten yourself into.”
I didn’t protest. I knew she’d wear me down eventually. I took another sip of wine and immediately launched into a recap of the last two weeks.
“Callum Murdoch, huh? Hot.”
“Miranda,” I said impatiently, “I think you missed the point of my story.”
“Stop it. You and I both know it’s about time you gave the straight life a chance.”
I grimaced but knew it was useless to argue with her.
“As for me missing the point, you’re not fooling me for a minute. Callum has you nervous. I can tell by the way you paused every time you said his name. Plus I’ve seen the man. He’d make a nun reconsider her vows.”
“He’s not that hot,” I said, lying through my teeth.
She sent me a look.
“Okay, so he’s hot. But I can’t stand him.”
She continued to stare at me.
“I can’t,” I said, knowing I was protesting too much. I squirmed in my seat. What was it about old friends that didn’t let you get away with self-deception?
“All I can tell you is people are placing bets about how long you’ll last.”
My jaw dropped. “They are?”
“Yep, and so far it’s not looking like anyone believes you’ll actually make it the full three months.”
“Did you bet?”
She looked down, focusing on an invisible piece of lint on her pristine skirt.
“Miranda!” I said.
She looked up guiltily. “What? Raven, I know you. You’ve probably already contacted your minions to get you out of there.”
Now it was my turn to look away.
“See? I knew it!”
“Can you blame me? They have me working at a fucking blood bank. And they’re making me go into the sun and drink fake blood,” I said, hoping she’d take my side.
“So? It’s not like you can get skin cancer. And I’m excited about Lifeblood. So much more convenient than bagged. How is it?”
“It’s actually not bad,” I admitted grudgingly. “But that’s not the point.”
“What’s your point then? You fucked up. It’s time to pay the piper. I’m frankly surprised your father didn’t try this sooner.”
“Gee thanks, traitor,” I said.
“I’m just being honest. You know I love you, but this was going to happen sooner or later. And it could have been worse.”
“How?” I asked.
“Your father could have decided to be in charge of your rehabilitation.”
Yikes, I hadn’t thought of that. While Callum got on my nerves, I actually enjoyed our verbal sparring. My father would have done nothing but criticize and nag me until I was ready to rip my ears off.
“See, you’ve got to look on the bright side,” she said, sounding too chipper for my taste.
I didn’t have time to respond as a vision in white floated into the room.
“Speaking of bright sides,” Miranda said, standing to lead Sydney onto the raised platform in front of the chairs. “Sydney, you’re radiant.”
Thankful for the change in subject, I rose and walked to where they stood.
I had to admit, the dress was pretty fabulous. Strapless with artfully arranged folds along the bodice, the matte satin dress hugged Syd’s petite frame. The skirt flared slightly, falling in a cascade to the floor. The overall effect was both quietly elegant and stunning at the same time.
Syd stared at herself in the mirror for a long time, a dazed look on her face.
“Oh my God,” she whispered.
“Is that a good thing?” I asked.
She looked at me. “Yes. I love it.”
“You should. It looks amazing on you,” I said.
“You wouldn’t need many alterations in this one, just some tweaking of the hem,” Miranda said, circling Syd. “Do you want to try on the others?”
Syd broke from her trance for a moment. “This is it.”
Miranda smiled knowingly., “I thought so. Would you like to try on a veil to see the full effect? I have the perfect pair of strappy heels for it too.”
Syd nodded eagerly. While Miranda went to gather accessories, I stepped in front of Syd.
“So?”
“Raven, I can’t believe it. I’m standing here in the dress I’ll be married in.” Her eyes glistened with tears, and I panicked, sensing a bonding moment coming.
“It’s just so overwhelming, you know?” she said, delicately wiping her eyes.
“I’m sure it is,” I said, awkwardly patting her arm.
“You know I was engaged once before, right?”
“No, I didn’t,” I said, surprised.
“Yeah, my parents picked him out for me. A week before the wedding, I called it off. He wanted me to give up my career goals to stay home and play hostess for his law partners.”
“Wow, I had no idea.”
“Anyway, with Logan it’s different. He knows me and understands how important my work is. And there’s not a doubt in my mind I’m making the right decision.”
“That’s good.”
“I’m sorry if this sounds sappy, but when I saw myself in this dress, I was blown away. Buying it means I’m one step closer to marrying the man I’ll spend eternity with.”
“Uh-huh,” I said, not sure how to respond. She was talking about things totally out of my depth. I looked around, hoping Miranda would hurry up.
S
yd drug her gaze away from her reflection and looked at me.
“Raven, thank you for this.” She grabbed one of my hands. “I can’t tell you how much your help has meant to me.”
I looked at her for a moment, seeing the sincerity in her eyes. I felt like an ass for making fun of her excitement earlier. This obviously meant a lot to her, and I was kind of proud I’d helped her.
“You’re welcome,” I said, meaning it.
“Can I ask you something?” she said.
“Sure,” I said, feeling kind of warm and gushy.
“Will you be my bridesmaid?” she said hesitantly but with a smile.
I was taken aback.
“Syd, are you sure that’s the best idea? Logan hates me. I kidnapped you. I’m here doing time to pay off my debts to your future family. Are you sensing a pattern?”
Syd waved a hand. “I know all that. But I’d like to think we’re friends. I know you try to hide it, but you’re a warm, funny person. I enjoy spending time with you. And if you don’t say yes, then I won’t have anyone on my side for the wedding.”
I started to crack. Her eyes pleaded with me to say yes. And by the goddess, I wanted to say yes. I liked Sydney, and no one had ever asked me to be a part of something so important to them. I felt flattered. But I worried about the family’s reaction. Kira would probably tell Syd I wasn’t good enough. Logan would throw a fit. Callum would . . . well, I wasn’t sure how he’d react, but I wasn’t optimistic.
“Syd, I’m flattered and touched that you want me to be a part of your wedding—"
“Don’t say ‘but,’” Syd interrupted. “Listen, I know people might not like it, but it’s my wedding and my decision. I want you to be my maid of honor. And if anyone has a problem with that, you send them to me.”
I admired her spunk, and the idea of her telling them all off intrigued me.
“Oh, what the hell. Sure. I’ll do it.”
She squealed and leaned forward to hug me. I laughed and hugged her back.
“What did I miss?” Miranda said as she walked back in carrying shoes, a veil, and a jewelry box.
Syd pulled back from the hug and looked at Miranda.