Page 75 of Just a Friend for the Lion
It’s like Autumn leaves were spun into fabric just for me.
And the shoes tucked underneath?
Kitten heels, shiny and perfect, with delicate buckles that wink like they’re in on a secret.
“Holy shit,” I whisper, fingers trembling as I lift the gown. “It’s gorgeous.”
“Try it on already!” Dina squeals, practically bouncing.
So I do.
And when I step into the living room, their jaws drop.
“Marianne Jeanne Coppola,” Carina says softly, hands pressed to her cheeks. “You are stunning.”
I can’t look at myself too long in the mirror because my throat gets tight. When was the last time I felt this beautiful?
Maybe never.
I bite my lip, smoothing my palms down the flowing skirt.
“This is so nice and all, but um, I really don’t think I’m up for a party, guys.”
“Too bad,” Dina says, linking her arm through mine. “Because we are.”
“Yeah,” Carina grins, wobbling into her heels with surprising grace for a pregnant lady. “And you’re coming with us.”
I don’t even get the chance to argue.
Horace pulls up in his SUV, Doug takesthe front seat, and before I know it, we’re gliding through the glowing city streets.
My stomach is in knots the entire drive, even more so when we pull into the parking lot I know too well.
I bite my lip so hard it nearly bleeds.
“Um, wait a second, guys? What are we doinghere?”
“What?” Carina chirps innocently, adjusting her wrap. “MJ, you look so good. Come on, I’m starving.”
Dina is already out the door, heels clacking, tugging me after her.
“Let’s go, Cinderella. Midnight’s coming.”
And my heart? It’s racing like it knows what’s waiting inside.
Chapter 26
Carter
Idon’t know how the old Witch pulled it off, but Uncle Uzzi and his merry band of chaos-causing minions managed to turn part of my garage into a goddamn party palace.
Seriously.
We’re talking twinkle lights strung across the rafters, tables covered in crisp white linens, platters of food that smell way too good for this to be real life, and a live band tucked into the corner like this is some kind of wedding reception.
Glitter even sparkles in the air, hanging there like it’s suspended in time.
I make a mental note that I’ll be finding that glitter in my upholstery for the next decade—but honestly?
