Chapter 33
Thirty-Three
Brittney
I couldn’t be any happier if I were standing in Sephora itself. Sabine’s beauty products are top of the line and I am living for it.
After trying on multiple colors and products, I decide that I like the cat-eye, something I’ve always wanted to try but never had the guts (or training) to do.
It takes four failed attempts to get it right. I can’t believe what a difference a little eye liner, mascara, and blush makes.
“You have impossibly long eyelashes,” Sabine gushes. “I’d die for them.”
“I’d die for your life.”
She snorts. “The grass is always greener, remember that. We all have our problems, no matter what you see on the outside.”
I nod, then ask, “So, what’s he like?”
“Astor?”
“Yeah.”
She considers her answer. “He’s a complex, complicated, passionate man. He’s incredibly smart, dedicated, and funny—both intentionally and unintentionally.”
I laugh. “He kind of comes off as . . .”
“An asshole?”
“I was going to say stoic.”
“He’s been on his own for a long time and has lost a lot of people he loves. The pain has manifested in something . . . well, something I’m trying to tame, to be honest.”
“I’m sorry to hear that. Men are so complicated. By the way, where is he?”
Sabine frowns. “Dr. Squire said he went for a long walk after their meeting this morning. I’m glad—he needs it.” She refocuses on my hair. “Let me ask you, what was it about Leo that hooked you?”
“Besides the fact he was good in bed?”
“Right.”
“Well, initially, his looks. He’s the kind of guy that makes you want to know more about him and he has this super sexy dangerous vibe.”
“Dark and mysterious.”
“Yeah. All the women at the bar swoon over him. I’m not the only one he’s taken home. I saw him leave with two other women on two occasions.”
“Yikes. Okay, then let me ask you this: why would you want a man like that?”
“Fair point.”
“Good. Think about that every time you see him. Okay, now let’s talk about your hair…”
For the next thirty minutes, we discuss layers and highlights, then sift through Sabine’s clothes.
In a blue sundress, I stand in front of the mirror and stare at my reflection. My cat eyes, my glossed lips, my curled, voluminous hair. I don’t recognize this woman, but I instantly love her.
Sabine steps back, hands on hips. “You look like a million bucks.”
“I feel like a million bucks.”
“Good. Now. Leo is outside on the north side of the house. Go outside and pretend to be taking a break, let him see you, then turn around and walk right back inside.”
I grin from ear to ear then wrap my hands around her. “Thank you, Sabine.”
“You’ve got this, Brittney. Love yourself first, and everything else will fall in line. I promise.”