Page 129 of Drop Three

Let’s just hope my charade doesn’t lose me my job.

Walking into the bathroom to shower, I freeze upon seeing something incredibly unexpected—a gown wrapped in a garment bag from Lola Lux, a high-end department store in Atlanta.

But from who?

Butterflies consume me at the sight of a handwritten note written once again in my favorite pink berry lipstick across my bathroom mirror.

Terremoto,

You will always be the prettiest woman in the room.

-B

Bodhi.

When did he sneak in here and do this? What does this gesture from him even mean?

He can’t keep showing up for me in unexpected ways and expect me to just forget everything that’s happened—all the ways he hurt me.

We’re in a better place now, but I won’t give in so easily.

This dress, however…

Holy beautiful.

I unzip the luxurious garment bag and find the most stunning lime green gown I’ve ever seen.

My favorite color.

Bodhi seems to know my style well because the gown is exactly what I would have chosen for myself. It’s made of expensive satin that falls delicately to the floor, a halter neck with a small slit right at the cleavage, a tapered waistline that would only enhance my womanly features, and the star of the show—a backless drape.

Yoga does wonders for back muscles.

This gown is elegant and stunning.

But I can’t wear it.

What does it say about me if I give in to Bodhi’s “wishes” without requiring an explanation or anything from him?

After everything with Luke, I told myself that I refused to be a doormat and let any man tell me what to do.

Bodhi is different and means well, but I won’t give in until he explains himself and has the courage to confront my brother.

To claim me the way I know he wants to.

Because I’m ready.

The most beautiful gown I’ve ever seen will have to wait for a more special occasion.

Tonight, I’m ruffling some feathers.

39

BODHI

I’ve been spinningmy fidget for what feels like hours.

I’m not nervous about tonight; I’m excited.

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