For The Plot

13

I slumped on my sofa, ignoring the flashbacks of last night while I sip on my coffee. I pulled out my phone to text Jessica.

*How's the study going?*

*Great, been up since six working on my final project :/
Desperately need a break. Brunch?*

*Squib's at 11?*

*yes please! See you then x*

I rang the restaurant next, reserving a table for two, under the name Lowen Pierce. Normally I'd use false names, or Jess's name, but now if someone sees my name and a plus one? That is bound to spark attention.

Having the morning to do whatever, I got into one of my favourite outfits and decided to hit some stores.

Walking down the street in my favourite black mini skirt and tights was an awful idea, considering the low temperatures. I hugged my long crimson coat around myself as I hailed a cab.

I took multiple photos this morning and decided to add one to my story on the drive to pass time. Recently, I'm going against everything I know as an influencer. Things like 'don't post an outfit or location until the day after' are down the drain.

I'm not going to drop where I am, but posting today's outfit is like playing Where's Waldo, or putting my face on a Wanted poster. Catch me if you can, paparazzi.

I strut into my favourite clothes store, shaking out my 90's blowout hairstyle.

I think subconsciously I am shopping to distract myself. I know if I stayed home all day I'd think too much. Retail therapy will have to do until I meet with Jessica.

I kept a small note in my phone for what events I need clothes for. I think I might contact a dressmaker for my book launch, because as much as I don't want to bother Jessica, I would love to wear one of her designs. She deserves some recognition.

I strolled through the shop, politely denying help because I have no clue what I'm looking for.

A few dresses hooked over my arm until I couldn't carry anymore, and I made my way to a dressing room.

Layers are a great idea for cold weather as well as making the outfit, but I didn't think about trying on these clothes. I mentally slapped myself but carried on undressing layer by layer.

I bought four out of six gowns, as well as a cute dress for Tuesday night, that I spotted just on my way out the door and had to do a 180 because it really was that cute. I'm sure my bank account is cursing my name, but soon enough that will no longer be a worry.

I arrived to Squib's five minutes late, finding Jessica already waiting for me. The café has quite a modern sense, with white walls and black tables. "You're here!" She beamed, getting up to hug me. "I missed you!"

"It's only been a few days." I reminded her with a giggle. "I missed you too, though."

I meant to keep an eye out for cameras, but like every conversation with Jess, I got lost in it. We talked and laughed and I almost told her about my night so many times, but I didn't. I can't tell her, because it will highlight it. She would make a thing out of it. At least, that's what I'm telling myself - the part of me that thinks saying it out loud will make it official. It will draw a line underneath and say 'this happened, and it shouldn't have'.