The night of the event, I change Mia and myself into the golden dresses that Neil selected and delivered to us. Mine is glittery, sparkling under the light. I can’t help but feel beautiful, though I also can’t help but wonder how much this single dress cost.
Mia’s dress isn’t quite as glittery, though it does still shine under the lights. Hers comes with headband and a bow.
“You look precious,” I tell her. “Like a shiny coin.”
She giggles and I hug her.
A knock sounds on my door.
“Come in!” I call.
The door opens and Archer steps inside. When he sees me, he stops short. His gaze drops to my feet and then slowly drags all the way up the length of my body. I can feel the weight of his eyes as if he was touching me with his hands.
I stand still, accepting the praise of his lingering ga
