Chapter 9
Alice Mendes
The week flew by. We had so much work I barely had time to eat a proper lunch, and I always got home late, completely exhausted. Then today, Friday, my esteemed boss decided to let me leave a few minutes early. And I have to admit, I loved it.
I was grateful because I was dying to get home, take a shower, and throw myself on the couch with a good romance novel. I just didn't expect my friend to have other plans—and of course, nothing I'd actually enjoy.
“Alice, girl, are you home?” Cata comes bursting into my room shouting while I'm in the shower.
“Yeah, I'm in the shower!” I reply, and she doesn't even wait for permission to come in.
“We have plans tonight and I won't take no for an answer. You have no idea how hard it was to get these tickets.”“Plans?
Tickets? I don't know anything about this, Cata.
I'm exhausted today—I have zero energy to go out.”“No way! I got tickets to that new club that just opened, remember? The one we walked past the other day. And the best part—VIP area! If you get tired, you can crash on a comfy couch while your friends dance and hook up with some guys.”
She's bouncing with excitement as she talks, and I can't deny it's impressive that she managed to get the tickets. We saw them finishing up construction on the club, but we had no idea when it was opening. The little devil not only found out but also scored us entry.
“And who gave you something that hard to come by? Who else did you invite?”“Kate and Gabriela from the hotel reception.
I got four tickets and didn't have anyone else to invite besides you guys.”“Fine, I'll go.
But if I get stressed out, I'm coming home, got it?”“Oh, you're the best!
I knew if I asked nicely, you'd come,” she says, hugging me.
“Yeah, yeah, you sneaky thing. Now let me rest a bit. I left early today and I want to enjoy my bed for a while before getting ready.”“Yes, ma'am.
I'll go take a shower and then help you pick out your outfit.”
She leaves, and I lie down on the bed, thinking about how lucky I was to find Cata.
She was the first person to reach out to me, to teach me everything about working reception.
When I told her about my life, she hugged me and said I'd never be alone again.
Shortly after, we rented the apartment where we still live today—and it's one of the best things that ever happened to me.
That's why when she asks me to come along, I rarely say no, even when I'm not into the scene. I'm not used to it, but I go because I know she'd do the same for me.
I'm staring at my clothes, unable to decide, when Cata walks in holding a black dress—my favorite color.
She places it in my hands.“No way! That's your new dress.
I'm not wearing it before you do.”“Stop being silly.
I already told you I don't care.”“But I do.
It was expensive and I'm going to wear it first? No way!”“Please, girl! I want to see you looking gorgeous—just accept it!” she insists, giving me a pout that melts me instantly.
The dress is gorgeous: spaghetti straps, fitted, mid-thigh length, with a corset bodice that hugs every curve.
I decide to accept. I slip it on and it fits perfectly.
I choose a pair of red stiletto pumps to complete the look.
I check myself in the mirror and behind me, Cata claps like the number one fan she's always been.
I have to admit, I feel beautiful in this outfit.
“Now I'm going to get ready while you finish up. If you need anything, call me.”“Go ahead. Thanks for the dress—I love it. I promise to take good care of it.”“It looks amazing on you!” She blows me a kiss and leaves.
I've never been big on makeup, so I just dab on some concealer to hide the dark circles, add mascara, eyeliner, and red lipstick. I fix my hair and I'm ready. Modesty aside, I look beautiful. When I get to the living room, I find my friend ready too.
I hope tonight is at least decent. But inside, I feel a strange shiver, as if something is about to change. I take a deep breath, convince myself it's just exhaustion, and we head out to meet our friends.
I just didn't know that night would mark the beginning of something that would change my life… forever.