Page 148 of Withered

Judging by the store’s look, we have to wait for more than an hour at the men’s clothing store. Many men are getting their fittings done in the store.

“Let’s get my dress first. We’ll eat something and then return,” I suggest.

He nods, and we leave.

“What a shame. I couldn’t see you putting on a show for me,” Jake speaks up.

I roll my eyes. “Your fault. You shouldn’t have left.”

I thank the elderly lady and proceed to the food court as Jake takes my hand and smiles.

“Why are you smiling?”

“You said you’d put on a show for me if I hadn’t left that day. That is so thoughtful of you. Rose,” Jake says it in a playful tone.

He tricks me into this one. “Gosh.” I elbow him at his side.

Jake orders a lot for himself, and I get a latte. He was in the middle of eating a sandwich when he stops and says, “I forgot. We have to stop somewhere.”

“Where?” I ask him, taking a sip.

“I’m buying you shoes.” He finishes, then drags me to a shoe store.

Honestly, I don’t need them. I have far too many in my closet. Even after this, Jake is a stubborn, persistent jerk who insists on buying me one.

I say, “I’m leaving this to you. Go, surprise me.”

He raises an eyebrow as if to say,Bring it on.

While I sip my latte, he wanders throughout the shop. After a few minutes, he returns with two pairs, one in each hand.

“Choose.” He shows me the shoes.

Both are equally lovely. The first pair is a stunning floral high heel in gold with a large rose attached to its rear strap. The other pair is a sequined crystal lace pump with gorgeous flowers, which is stunning in a scenic style.

“Wow. Tough one.” I mutter as I stare at the pairs. My ball gown is heavier, and heels would make it more difficult, so I choose the pumps instead.

“I’ll be back,” Jake says as he walks over to the counter.

My thoughts keep returning to those stunning heels. I don’t own anything like that.

Jake returns with a bag in his hand, and we go to the men’s clothing store. It’s a good thing there are just a few guys left. I approach the desk and request Jake’s tux. The man behind the counter calls another man.

I push Jake inside the dressing room, and fifteen minutes later, Jake emerges outside. Holy Jesus, am I dreaming? Is this real? My mouth hangs open, and I’m probably drooling.

Jake nears me and buttons his suit. He can make money only with his looks. That’s how good he looks.Ah, my heart hurts like crazy.

“How do I look?” Jake stands a few feet from me.

I give him a once-over and notice he isn’t wearing the bow. “What do you think?”

He leans down to my ear and says, “By your expression, I would sayeatable.”

I feel literal chills all over me—a shiver going down my spine.

“Are you hungry, Rose?” He asks, looking at me.

I look him in the eyes and whisper, “Very.”

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