21. dress code
dress code
MARLEY
“There you are! I thought you’d skipped out on us.”
Carina’s voice cuts through my thoughts. Dinner ended a few minutes ago, and my brief escape to the bathroom to be alone and process everything that just happened has clearly come to an end.
“No, I’m here,” I say, placing the cap on my lipstick and stuffing it into my clutch.
She joins me at the counter lined with sinks, retrieving her own lipstick from her purse. She glides the pomegranate shade across her mouth and then presses them together.
“I love this color,” she says with a mock grin. “And I love that you agreed to work with my mom.”
I run the water and work a pump of soap between my hands. “Well, I couldn’t pass up the chance. Are you okay with that?” I ask her.
Carina catches my eye through the mirror as she smooths a hand over her already perfectly slicked-back ponytail. “It’s really not up to me now. Once my mom’s mind is made up, there’s really no changing it.”
“Ah,” is the only thing I can manage to say as I rinse my hands and reach for a paper towel.
“So, I guess you’re stuck with us tonight.”
My face screws in confusion.
“The boys went to the Cove.”
I do my best to hide my disappointment. He’s already breaking rules. Rule number two was very clear: Do not leave me alone with these women.
“You aren’t the jealous type, are you? Like, Ozzy’s ok to go out to clubs without you.”
“Yeah, of course,” I tell her, forcing a smile.
“Perfect. Then you’re coming out with us.”
“Us?”
Carina rolls her eyes impatiently. “Me and my girls. We’re going to the Kai Lounge.”
I realize Carina and Collette don't really ask questions. They present things like choices, but somehow they've already decided the answer for you. With Collette handing me an opportunity most publications would have to fight for, refusing Carina’s invitation almost feels ungrateful.
Yes, you have to go.
And then there’s Lo’s relentless voice ringing in my ears. You’re on vacation. Have fun!
Fun with Carina and her Satin Mafia?
I didn’t see how well that would go with their petty jabs and cold stares.
I also had nothing in common with these women.
We were all around the same age, but they seemed ten years younger than me at times.
Well, all of them except Danielle. But I suppose I don’t need to have anything in common with them to get this story done.
I would be hanging out and getting to know her for the sake of the story.
“Are you seriously going to tell me no?” she asks, looking at me with her face twisted in disbelief.
“No. I’d love to come out with you guys.”
“Good,” her eyes slide over me from head to toe. “Well, first we have to get you changed. Dress code is lavender.”
I look down at what I’m wearing. “I don’t have-”
“I figured,” she quips. “But my stylist is here. He’ll have something for you, I’m sure.”
“Oh. Well, thanks. That’s sweet.”
“Yeah,” she murmurs.
Carina is already looping her arm through mine as we exit the bathroom.
“I’m guessing you’re like a size five, but with those hips, a seven, right?”